politics & bureaucracy archives
Oct
16
2008
the debate decoder
One of the big projects occupying my time over the past few weeks has been the Debate Decoder, an interactive feature combining debate video, transcripts, analysis and inline fact-checking. We also invited user feedback in the form of "who...
One of the big projects occupying my time over the past few weeks has been the Debate Decoder, an interactive feature combining debate video, transcripts, analysis and inline fact-checking. We also invited user feedback in the form of "who...
Aug
25
2008
convention fever
I'm not in Denver for the Democratic National Convention, but a good number of my colleagues are. In the video below, Jill Bartscht of the Washington Post gives a tour of the Post workspace and the Pepsi Center where the...
I'm not in Denver for the Democratic National Convention, but a good number of my colleagues are. In the video below, Jill Bartscht of the Washington Post gives a tour of the Post workspace and the Pepsi Center where the...
Aug
19
2008
pick your president
Today we rolled out our fall election contest -- Pick Your President -- in which users are asked to predict which candidate will win in each state and the Electoral College, thus winning the presidency. The contest runs through October...
Today we rolled out our fall election contest -- Pick Your President -- in which users are asked to predict which candidate will win in each state and the Electoral College, thus winning the presidency. The contest runs through October...
Jun
3
2008
montana and south dakota primary results
Tonight marks the end of primary season, with elections in Montana (Democrats), New Mexico (Republicans) and South Dakota (Democrats and Republicans). It's been a long road since the Iowa caucuses kicked things off five months ago. Tonight, we'll have county-by-county...
Tonight marks the end of primary season, with elections in Montana (Democrats), New Mexico (Republicans) and South Dakota (Democrats and Republicans). It's been a long road since the Iowa caucuses kicked things off five months ago. Tonight, we'll have county-by-county...
May
23
2008
montgomery county budget calculator
Yesterday, the Montgomery County, Md., county council voted on its 2009 budget. As part of our coverage, we rolled out a budget calculator game to allow users to try their hand at balancing the county's budget. For revenues, the...
Yesterday, the Montgomery County, Md., county council voted on its 2009 budget. As part of our coverage, we rolled out a budget calculator game to allow users to try their hand at balancing the county's budget. For revenues, the...
May
20
2008
kentucky and oregon primary results
For those following the presidential primaries (and, in particular, the Democratic race), we have county-by-county results maps again for tonight's primaries in Kentucky and Oregon: Polls in Kentucky close at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern Time (the state...
For those following the presidential primaries (and, in particular, the Democratic race), we have county-by-county results maps again for tonight's primaries in Kentucky and Oregon: Polls in Kentucky close at 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern Time (the state...
May
6
2008
indiana and north carolina primary results
We've put together another set of live maps of election results by county for tonight's Indiana and North Carolina primaries: News organizations called North Carolina for Barack Obama much earlier in the night. At present, Hillary Rodham Clinton leads in...
We've put together another set of live maps of election results by county for tonight's Indiana and North Carolina primaries: News organizations called North Carolina for Barack Obama much earlier in the night. At present, Hillary Rodham Clinton leads in...
May
5
2008
the democratic race in seven minutes
There are two more primaries tomorrow, in Indiana and North Carolina. Slate has a funny roundup of the Democratic campaign so far, from key events to random distractions that have popped up along the way: (Thanks to Emily for the...
There are two more primaries tomorrow, in Indiana and North Carolina. Slate has a funny roundup of the Democratic campaign so far, from key events to random distractions that have popped up along the way: (Thanks to Emily for the...
Apr
22
2008
pennsylvania primary results
After a month's break, it's primary night again. Tonight: Pennsylvania. This morning, the Post ran another installment in its "Political Geography" series, this one focusing on the Pennsylvania Democratic Primary. The map highlights key areas of the state for Hillary...
After a month's break, it's primary night again. Tonight: Pennsylvania. This morning, the Post ran another installment in its "Political Geography" series, this one focusing on the Pennsylvania Democratic Primary. The map highlights key areas of the state for Hillary...
Apr
1
2008
2008 democratic delegate scorecard
The Democratic primary race is extremely tight, and all eyes have been on the delegate count. We've just created a widgetized version of our Democratic primary map and delegate scorecard, so you can follow the results from your blog or...
The Democratic primary race is extremely tight, and all eyes have been on the delegate count. We've just created a widgetized version of our Democratic primary map and delegate scorecard, so you can follow the results from your blog or...
Mar
23
2008
pick the prez
Earlier this week we rolled out the Electoral College Prediction Map, which lets users game out how the Electoral College vote may go with this November's presidential election. Start from scratch, or select from a variety of "modes" to get...
Earlier this week we rolled out the Electoral College Prediction Map, which lets users game out how the Electoral College vote may go with this November's presidential election. Start from scratch, or select from a variety of "modes" to get...
Mar
14
2008
swing states
I did a quick interactive map this week for Chris Cillizza's "Friday Line" on his washingtonpost.com politics blog The Fix. The topic: potential swing states this November. Note: Please upgrade your Flash plug-in to view our enhanced content. var statesmap...
I did a quick interactive map this week for Chris Cillizza's "Friday Line" on his washingtonpost.com politics blog The Fix. The topic: potential swing states this November. Note: Please upgrade your Flash plug-in to view our enhanced content. var statesmap...
Mar
12
2008
testing out the google chart api
Google recently released a tool that allows users to quickly create impressively clean dynamic charts and graphs. I played around with it a bit this morning and found it super-easy to use. For example, check out these charts of last...
Google recently released a tool that allows users to quickly create impressively clean dynamic charts and graphs. I played around with it a bit this morning and found it super-easy to use. For example, check out these charts of last...
Feb
14
2008
primary results: d.c., maryland and virginia
For Tuesday's "Potomac Primary" -- presidential primary contests in D.C., Maryland and Virginia -- I set up another set of interactive results maps (county/city-level for Maryland and Virginia, ward-level for D.C.): Also worth checking out: I've also beefed up...
For Tuesday's "Potomac Primary" -- presidential primary contests in D.C., Maryland and Virginia -- I set up another set of interactive results maps (county/city-level for Maryland and Virginia, ward-level for D.C.): Also worth checking out: I've also beefed up...
Feb
1
2008
political caricatures
Illustrator John Kascht has a really cool series of videos about his caricatures of presidential candidates on washingtonpost.com. Kascht talks about the process he goes through in creating a caricature and his impressions of the candidates. Here's one about Rudy...
Illustrator John Kascht has a really cool series of videos about his caricatures of presidential candidates on washingtonpost.com. Kascht talks about the process he goes through in creating a caricature and his impressions of the candidates. Here's one about Rudy...
Jan
29
2008
florida primary results
We did another live county-by-county results map for tonight's Florida primaries. John McCain won the Republican vote (in a close race with Mitt Romney), while Hillary Clinton won the Democratic. As with Michigan, the Democratic National Committee stripped the Florida...
We did another live county-by-county results map for tonight's Florida primaries. John McCain won the Republican vote (in a close race with Mitt Romney), while Hillary Clinton won the Democratic. As with Michigan, the Democratic National Committee stripped the Florida...
Jan
19
2008
nevada and south carolina primary results
This weekend's main political events: the Nevada caucuses and the South Carolina Republican primary. As before, washingtonpost.com has county-by-county results maps. (Update, 1/26: The South Carolina map now includes the Democratic results.) Given my prior interest in the uncommitted...
This weekend's main political events: the Nevada caucuses and the South Carolina Republican primary. As before, washingtonpost.com has county-by-county results maps. (Update, 1/26: The South Carolina map now includes the Democratic results.) Given my prior interest in the uncommitted...
Jan
16
2008
vote uncommitted
Rob picked me up from work last night, and on the way home we chatted a bit about the night's primary results. In the Michigan Democratic primary, 40 percent of the vote went to "Uncommitted" -- something that prompted Rob...
Rob picked me up from work last night, and on the way home we chatted a bit about the night's primary results. In the Michigan Democratic primary, 40 percent of the vote went to "Uncommitted" -- something that prompted Rob...
michigan primary results
Mitt Romney and Hillary Clinton were the victors in tonight's Michigan primaries, for which I helped put together another county-by-county results map. (Of course, the Democratic results don't officially count, as the national party last month voted to strip Michigan...
Mitt Romney and Hillary Clinton were the victors in tonight's Michigan primaries, for which I helped put together another county-by-county results map. (Of course, the Democratic results don't officially count, as the national party last month voted to strip Michigan...
Jan
8
2008
new hampshire primary results
Another day, another primary. Tonight's main event: the New Hampshire primary. Like last week with Iowa, I put together a Flash-based map of county-by-county results for New Hampshire. The difference this time was that our developer, Larry Sanderson, set things...
Another day, another primary. Tonight's main event: the New Hampshire primary. Like last week with Iowa, I put together a Flash-based map of county-by-county results for New Hampshire. The difference this time was that our developer, Larry Sanderson, set things...
Jan
4
2008
iowa caucus results
I put together a Flash-based map of Iowa caucus county-level results to go with our caucus coverage last night. You can look at overall results by party, or see how each individual candidate did. Credit for this also goes...
I put together a Flash-based map of Iowa caucus county-level results to go with our caucus coverage last night. You can look at overall results by party, or see how each individual candidate did. Credit for this also goes...
Jan
3
2008
iowa
Slate has a funny (and informative) video explainer about how the Iowa caucuses work: (If you can't see the video above, it's available at SlateV.com.)...
Slate has a funny (and informative) video explainer about how the Iowa caucuses work: (If you can't see the video above, it's available at SlateV.com.)...
Dec
10
2007
candidates week
The Washington Post is running daily profiles of eight front-runner presidential candidates this week.
The Washington Post is running daily profiles of eight front-runner presidential candidates this week.
Dec
8
2007
who is andrew jackson?
Interesting bit of political trivia from yesterday's episode of Jeopardy: The Democratic Party's symbol dates back to 1828, when this man was called a jackass in his run for the presidency...
Interesting bit of political trivia from yesterday's episode of Jeopardy: The Democratic Party's symbol dates back to 1828, when this man was called a jackass in his run for the presidency...
Nov
6
2007
general assembly
As part of our election night coverage, I've put together a Flash-based map of the Virginia General Assembly House and Senate districts that displays election results (by party) as they come in. (Kudos to Larry Sanderson for setting up...
As part of our election night coverage, I've put together a Flash-based map of the Virginia General Assembly House and Senate districts that displays election results (by party) as they come in. (Kudos to Larry Sanderson for setting up...
post politics
Last night we went live with a bit of a "freshening up" of the Politics sectionfront at washingtonpost.com. The new page features a large photo for the lead story and bulleted headlines to key to the other top stories...
Last night we went live with a bit of a "freshening up" of the Politics sectionfront at washingtonpost.com. The new page features a large photo for the lead story and bulleted headlines to key to the other top stories...
Oct
23
2007
meet the candidate
Stephen Colbert had a brilliant turn this past weekend on NBC's Meet the Press as he discussed his book and his presidential candidacy (in South Carolina only) with host Tim Russert. It started out a bit shaky, but the second...
Stephen Colbert had a brilliant turn this past weekend on NBC's Meet the Press as he discussed his book and his presidential candidacy (in South Carolina only) with host Tim Russert. It started out a bit shaky, but the second...
Oct
17
2007
donor search
New in the washingtonpost.com campaign finance database: Look up individual campaign donations to the presidential candidates. Users can search by name, zip code, candidate, date and amount. This new feature coincides with the release of candidates' third quarter financial reports....
New in the washingtonpost.com campaign finance database: Look up individual campaign donations to the presidential candidates. Users can search by name, zip code, candidate, date and amount. This new feature coincides with the release of candidates' third quarter financial reports....
Oct
9
2007
election collection
The Election Collection is a Flash-based widget that gives you easy access to the latest news about the 2008 presidential campaign from a module that you can place on your blog or social networking profile.
The Election Collection is a Flash-based widget that gives you easy access to the latest news about the 2008 presidential campaign from a module that you can place on your blog or social networking profile.
Aug
23
2007
pants on fire
I'm generally not a huge fan of animated gifs -- except when they're done well. And this "Pants on Fire" graphic, part of the "Truth-o-Meter" at PolitiFact.com, is near-genius. I love the attitude and sheer ballsiness of it -- especially...
I'm generally not a huge fan of animated gifs -- except when they're done well. And this "Pants on Fire" graphic, part of the "Truth-o-Meter" at PolitiFact.com, is near-genius. I love the attitude and sheer ballsiness of it -- especially...
Jul
24
2007
trail-bound
At work this morning we launched a new Politics blog centered around the campaign trail and the run-up to the 2008 presidential election. The Trail will feature regular updates and analysis from the Post's political staff, as well as promote all the big campaign-related multimedia, interactive and enterprise work being done at the Post and post.com.
At work this morning we launched a new Politics blog centered around the campaign trail and the run-up to the 2008 presidential election. The Trail will feature regular updates and analysis from the Post's political staff, as well as promote all the big campaign-related multimedia, interactive and enterprise work being done at the Post and post.com.
Jul
2
2007
the independents
This weekend saw the debut of a new project from the Post's polling unit: The Independents, an examination of the attitudes and voting behaviors of people who self-identify as independents rather than as Democrats or Republicans.
This weekend saw the debut of a new project from the Post's polling unit: The Independents, an examination of the attitudes and voting behaviors of people who self-identify as independents rather than as Democrats or Republicans.
Jun
28
2007
the cheney vice presidency
On Sunday, the Post launched a four-part series about Dick Cheney's tenure as vice president called Angler: The Cheney Vice Presidency -- "angler" being a reference to Cheney's Secret Service code name and passion for fishing.
On Sunday, the Post launched a four-part series about Dick Cheney's tenure as vice president called Angler: The Cheney Vice Presidency -- "angler" being a reference to Cheney's Secret Service code name and passion for fishing.
Jun
14
2007
the fast-track campaign
The Fast-Track Campaign explores the impact of the compressed primary calendar (the party nominees could be decided as early as February 5) on the presidential campaigns.
The Fast-Track Campaign explores the impact of the compressed primary calendar (the party nominees could be decided as early as February 5) on the presidential campaigns.
May
8
2007
new on campaign tracker
Just launched on post.com's Campaign Tracker: See on a map where candidates have spent the most time and raised the most money.
Just launched on post.com's Campaign Tracker: See on a map where candidates have spent the most time and raised the most money.
Dec
8
2006
district map
I recently converted a Post-produced map of all the congressional districts across the United States into something usable (and easily manipulated) in Flash. Here, I use it to display 2006 midterm election results.
I recently converted a Post-produced map of all the congressional districts across the United States into something usable (and easily manipulated) in Flash. Here, I use it to display 2006 midterm election results.
Nov
15
2006
calm after the storm
Was the election really a whole week ago? The three weeks leading up to the election -- and the week before in particular -- my work life revolved around the elections, and my personal mantra was a countdown to Election...
Was the election really a whole week ago? The three weeks leading up to the election -- and the week before in particular -- my work life revolved around the elections, and my personal mantra was a countdown to Election...
Nov
9
2006
better know a district
The folks behind the Post's "Reliable Source" column point out today that while some politicians have looked really silly during their appearances on The Colbert Report (let's not forget the unopposed congressman who jokingly admitted to enjoying cocaine), it hasn't...
The folks behind the Post's "Reliable Source" column point out today that while some politicians have looked really silly during their appearances on The Colbert Report (let's not forget the unopposed congressman who jokingly admitted to enjoying cocaine), it hasn't...
Oct
28
2006
seen: costumed
Rob and I walked over to the Ballston Mall tonight to run a quick errand, then made a stop at 7-Eleven on the way home. Over the course of the evening, we saw a number of people in costume for...
Rob and I walked over to the Ballston Mall tonight to run a quick errand, then made a stop at 7-Eleven on the way home. Over the course of the evening, we saw a number of people in costume for...
Sep
22
2006
ohio river ramble
The Ohio River Ramble is a road trip through nine congressional districts along the Ohio River Valley, in which two reporters and a videographer report back on the prevailing political winds in those areas.
The Ohio River Ramble is a road trip through nine congressional districts along the Ohio River Valley, in which two reporters and a videographer report back on the prevailing political winds in those areas.
Sep
5
2006
quote of the day: pecking order
"Let me explain the government to you. There's God, then there's the president and then there's my father." - Jack Roberts, 6-year-old son of Chief Justice John Roberts, overheard speaking to one of his young peers on the last day...
"Let me explain the government to you. There's God, then there's the president and then there's my father." - Jack Roberts, 6-year-old son of Chief Justice John Roberts, overheard speaking to one of his young peers on the last day...
Aug
23
2006
seen: income
Doing some research yesterday about what the IRS considers taxable income, I came across this surprising guideline in an IRS publication: Bribes. If you receive a bribe, include it in your income. Riiiiight. Tell the government about the bribes you...
Doing some research yesterday about what the IRS considers taxable income, I came across this surprising guideline in an IRS publication: Bribes. If you receive a bribe, include it in your income. Riiiiight. Tell the government about the bribes you...
Aug
4
2006
mixed messages
We just launched Mixed Messages, a new database of political ads, on washingtonpost.com this afternoon.
We just launched Mixed Messages, a new database of political ads, on washingtonpost.com this afternoon.
Jul
26
2006
the running of the presidents
This past Sunday, Rob, Dari and I went out to RFK Stadium to see the Washington Nationals take on the Chicago Cubs. (Or, if you're an ardent Chicago-phile like Rob, see the Chicago Cubs take on the Washington Nationals.)...
This past Sunday, Rob, Dari and I went out to RFK Stadium to see the Washington Nationals take on the Chicago Cubs. (Or, if you're an ardent Chicago-phile like Rob, see the Chicago Cubs take on the Washington Nationals.)...
Jul
21
2006
colbert on the brain
Today I've been plowing through a series of congressional district maps for our Campaign 2006 coverage. In a sure sign that I watch too much of The Colbert Report, every time I start a new map, I imagine Stephen Colbert...
Today I've been plowing through a series of congressional district maps for our Campaign 2006 coverage. In a sure sign that I watch too much of The Colbert Report, every time I start a new map, I imagine Stephen Colbert...
Jul
12
2006
on the bus, on the trail
I just finished reading The Boys on the Bus, Timothy Crouse's book about the journalists that covered the 1972 presidential election. I bought the book a few years ago, on the recommendation of a journalism professor in college. It was...
I just finished reading The Boys on the Bus, Timothy Crouse's book about the journalists that covered the 1972 presidential election. I bought the book a few years ago, on the recommendation of a journalism professor in college. It was...
Feb
13
2006
another mac lockout
Cheers: The federal government is close to launching a new, centralized system where people can search and apply for grant money from a variety of federal agencies. Jeers: Only people visiting the site on a PC using Internet Explorer can...
Cheers: The federal government is close to launching a new, centralized system where people can search and apply for grant money from a variety of federal agencies. Jeers: Only people visiting the site on a PC using Internet Explorer can...
shot a man
The "Cheney accidentally shot a man" story from this weekend seems like an Onion spoof come to life. (Actually, The Onion did report this story (sort of) back in 2004.) Speaking of Cheney, local radio station WTOP reported this morning...
The "Cheney accidentally shot a man" story from this weekend seems like an Onion spoof come to life. (Actually, The Onion did report this story (sort of) back in 2004.) Speaking of Cheney, local radio station WTOP reported this morning...
Feb
6
2006
budgeted
Another year, another federal budget proposal. I helped produce some breakdowns of the budget numbers for the site this morning: Spending by category The federal deficit Receipts and outlays By government agency To learn more about how the process works,...
Another year, another federal budget proposal. I helped produce some breakdowns of the budget numbers for the site this morning: Spending by category The federal deficit Receipts and outlays By government agency To learn more about how the process works,...
Jan
29
2006
tax advice
I got my W-2 in the mail this weekend, so I opened up TurboTax this afternoon to input numbers and get a rough estimate of what this year's tax damage will be. In a section about business expenses, the program...
I got my W-2 in the mail this weekend, so I opened up TurboTax this afternoon to input numbers and get a rough estimate of what this year's tax damage will be. In a section about business expenses, the program...
Dec
22
2005
seen: power priorities
I had no idea that the vice president was such a die-hard iPod user... Yesterday's White House Briefing points out this anecdote from the press corps travelling with Dick Cheney: Nedra Pickler writes for the Associated Press with more tidbits...
I had no idea that the vice president was such a die-hard iPod user... Yesterday's White House Briefing points out this anecdote from the press corps travelling with Dick Cheney: Nedra Pickler writes for the Associated Press with more tidbits...
Nov
22
2005
rhetorical strategies
The Post's Howard Kurtz explains the rhetorical flourishes politicos use to smear each other and renounce the blame for said smearing: It is an age-old device in politics, making a personal slam sound more high-minded by attributing it to someone...
The Post's Howard Kurtz explains the rhetorical flourishes politicos use to smear each other and renounce the blame for said smearing: It is an age-old device in politics, making a personal slam sound more high-minded by attributing it to someone...
Nov
10
2005
exit stage left
In The Debate this week, Emily Messner asks the same question that crossed my mind on Tuesday (and again yesterday) when an e-mail from John Kerry appeared in my inbox: I got an e-mail yesterday from John Kerry urging me...
In The Debate this week, Emily Messner asks the same question that crossed my mind on Tuesday (and again yesterday) when an e-mail from John Kerry appeared in my inbox: I got an e-mail yesterday from John Kerry urging me...
Oct
11
2005
seen: reading material
A funny observation from Howard Kurtz's "Media Notes" column today: David Frum, the former Bush speechwriter who was the quickest conservative out of the box, isn't letting up on his National Review blog. After talking to conservative lawyers in Washington,...
A funny observation from Howard Kurtz's "Media Notes" column today: David Frum, the former Bush speechwriter who was the quickest conservative out of the box, isn't letting up on his National Review blog. After talking to conservative lawyers in Washington,...
Oct
4
2005
wikigovernment
In a funny brief that tweaks the failed "wikitorial" experiment at the L.A. Times, The Onion reports: Congress Abandons WikiConstitution September 28, 2005 | Issue 41•39 WASHINGTON, DC — Congress scrapped the open-source, open-edit, online version of the Constitution Monday,...
In a funny brief that tweaks the failed "wikitorial" experiment at the L.A. Times, The Onion reports: Congress Abandons WikiConstitution September 28, 2005 | Issue 41•39 WASHINGTON, DC — Congress scrapped the open-source, open-edit, online version of the Constitution Monday,...
Sep
29
2005
headline of the day
My candidate for headline of the day, spotted this afternoon on the front page of washingtonpost.com: Wamp Plans to Run for Whip The story itself is fairly mundane -- it's about a Republican congressman from Tennessee who's running for majority...
My candidate for headline of the day, spotted this afternoon on the front page of washingtonpost.com: Wamp Plans to Run for Whip The story itself is fairly mundane -- it's about a Republican congressman from Tennessee who's running for majority...
Sep
22
2005
catching the photo bug
In today's "Washington Sketch," the Post's Dana Milbank describes how senators Orrin Hatch and Joe Biden futzed with their cameraphones during boring moments in the Roberts confirmation hearings. I don't know if this is a statement about the photo-taking senators'...
In today's "Washington Sketch," the Post's Dana Milbank describes how senators Orrin Hatch and Joe Biden futzed with their cameraphones during boring moments in the Roberts confirmation hearings. I don't know if this is a statement about the photo-taking senators'...
Sep
9
2005
mac users need not apply
Ars Technica reports that the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in its infinite wisdom, made its online application for disaster relief accessible only to users of Internet Explorer 6, effectively blocking out (or at least putting up some sizeable roadblocks for)...
Ars Technica reports that the Federal Emergency Management Agency, in its infinite wisdom, made its online application for disaster relief accessible only to users of Internet Explorer 6, effectively blocking out (or at least putting up some sizeable roadblocks for)...
Aug
12
2005
microsoft burn
Score one for Microsoft. The U.S. Patent and Trade Office rejected Apple's patent application for its iPod software interface last month because Microsoft had filed a similar claim five months before Apple did. Apple plans to appeal the decision. (Bloomberg...
Score one for Microsoft. The U.S. Patent and Trade Office rejected Apple's patent application for its iPod software interface last month because Microsoft had filed a similar claim five months before Apple did. Apple plans to appeal the decision. (Bloomberg...
Jul
20
2005
scotus
When they announced the new Supreme Court nominee last night, something bothered me about the official photo of Judge John Roberts. This afternoon I figured it out: He looks like the Manchurian Candidate (2004 model). And that freaks me out....
When they announced the new Supreme Court nominee last night, something bothered me about the official photo of Judge John Roberts. This afternoon I figured it out: He looks like the Manchurian Candidate (2004 model). And that freaks me out....
Jul
12
2005
watergate revisited
It seems like there's always more to say about the Watergate scandal. The recent unmasking of "Deep Throat" has offered an opportunity to take another look at the events of 1972-74 with an important part of the puzzle finally in...
It seems like there's always more to say about the Watergate scandal. The recent unmasking of "Deep Throat" has offered an opportunity to take another look at the events of 1972-74 with an important part of the puzzle finally in...
Apr
18
2005
election
Big in the news today: The beginning of the papal conclave, in which all the cardinals (under 80 years old) sequester themselves inside the Sistine Chapel to vote on who becomes the next pope of the Roman Catholic church. Last...
Big in the news today: The beginning of the papal conclave, in which all the cardinals (under 80 years old) sequester themselves inside the Sistine Chapel to vote on who becomes the next pope of the Roman Catholic church. Last...
Mar
16
2005
press room
This reminds me of a plot point from an early episode of The West Wing, in which Sam suggests moving the press corps from the White House to the Old Executive Office Building, an idea that isn't taken particularly well....
This reminds me of a plot point from an early episode of The West Wing, in which Sam suggests moving the press corps from the White House to the Old Executive Office Building, an idea that isn't taken particularly well....
Mar
11
2005
another rumor debunked
Yet another rumor / "wouldn't this be nice?" supposition I sort of wanted to be true has now been debunked. Reuters reports that Bono, lead singer of U2 is, in fact, not in the running to lead the World Bank....
Yet another rumor / "wouldn't this be nice?" supposition I sort of wanted to be true has now been debunked. Reuters reports that Bono, lead singer of U2 is, in fact, not in the running to lead the World Bank....
Mar
2
2005
on the job
Assorted jobs that I would have no interest in ever trying: (This is by no means a definitive list; it's more "stuff I've read lately.") White House social secretary. Yesterday, the Washington Post profiled Lea Berman, Laura Bush's new right-hand...
Assorted jobs that I would have no interest in ever trying: (This is by no means a definitive list; it's more "stuff I've read lately.") White House social secretary. Yesterday, the Washington Post profiled Lea Berman, Laura Bush's new right-hand...
Feb
3
2005
mixed messages
I'm on Merriam-Webster's "word of the day" e-mail list, and sometimes I wonder if there's some kind of connection or meaning implied between the word sent out and current events. Take today, for example: The day after the president's State...
I'm on Merriam-Webster's "word of the day" e-mail list, and sometimes I wonder if there's some kind of connection or meaning implied between the word sent out and current events. Take today, for example: The day after the president's State...
Feb
2
2005
quote of the day: heartfelt
"I can play hardball as well as anybody. That's what I did, cut people's hearts out. On the other hand, I do it to cure them, to heal them, to make them better." - Bill Frist, the Senate majority leader...
"I can play hardball as well as anybody. That's what I did, cut people's hearts out. On the other hand, I do it to cure them, to heal them, to make them better." - Bill Frist, the Senate majority leader...
Jan
26
2005
heard: light bulb
My friend Shawn passed on this joke that made me giggle: Q: How many Bush Administration officials does it take to change a light bulb? A: There is nothing wrong with the light bulb; its condition is improving every day....
My friend Shawn passed on this joke that made me giggle: Q: How many Bush Administration officials does it take to change a light bulb? A: There is nothing wrong with the light bulb; its condition is improving every day....
Dec
7
2004
voices carry
Talk about the power of a squeaky wheel... Mediaweek reported yesterday that 99.8 of all indecency complaints submitted to the FCC last year were filed by one group: the Parents Television Council. ("Activists Dominate Content Complaints" - 12/06/04) Through early...
Talk about the power of a squeaky wheel... Mediaweek reported yesterday that 99.8 of all indecency complaints submitted to the FCC last year were filed by one group: the Parents Television Council. ("Activists Dominate Content Complaints" - 12/06/04) Through early...
Dec
3
2004
questioning the president
White House reporters Mike Allen and Dan Froomkin both have written stories this week about how the press corps tries to get worthwhile answers from President Bush in his rare press appearances. Allen, of the Washington Post, writes about press...
White House reporters Mike Allen and Dan Froomkin both have written stories this week about how the press corps tries to get worthwhile answers from President Bush in his rare press appearances. Allen, of the Washington Post, writes about press...
Nov
29
2004
red state, blue state
Ever since the election, there have been a ton of stories in the media about "red states vs. blue states," with regard to the results of the most recent presidential election and what the pundits and critics believe those results...
Ever since the election, there have been a ton of stories in the media about "red states vs. blue states," with regard to the results of the most recent presidential election and what the pundits and critics believe those results...
Nov
22
2004
brokaw for president?
Now that NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw is heading for semi-retirement, folks are guessing at what he might do next and offering suggestions about what he should do. Indianapolis Star columnist Ken Bode fairly eloquently explains why Brokaw might...
Now that NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw is heading for semi-retirement, folks are guessing at what he might do next and offering suggestions about what he should do. Indianapolis Star columnist Ken Bode fairly eloquently explains why Brokaw might...
Nov
5
2004
quote: political shame
"So tell me, how painful was it when the doctor removed your sense of shame?" - Triumph the Insult Comic Dog (QuickTime), in "Spin Alley" after the third presidential debate....
"So tell me, how painful was it when the doctor removed your sense of shame?" - Triumph the Insult Comic Dog (QuickTime), in "Spin Alley" after the third presidential debate....
Nov
2
2004
notes from a close election
I'm sitting just under a bank of television sets that I have to duck to avoid hitting every time I go to stand up or sit down. Producers and editors chatter about the latest results at the curved news desk...
I'm sitting just under a bank of television sets that I have to duck to avoid hitting every time I go to stand up or sit down. Producers and editors chatter about the latest results at the curved news desk...
electioneering
Got back from the polls about an hour ago. I came prepared for a wait, with two magazines tucked in my purse to help me pass the time, but the experience wasn't as painful as I thought it might be....
Got back from the polls about an hour ago. I came prepared for a wait, with two magazines tucked in my purse to help me pass the time, but the experience wasn't as painful as I thought it might be....
to the polls!
It's the big day: Election Day. If you're a registered voter in Virginia, you can look up your assigned polling place online. (Also: Washington, D.C. | Maryland) The polls in Virginia are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; D.C....
It's the big day: Election Day. If you're a registered voter in Virginia, you can look up your assigned polling place online. (Also: Washington, D.C. | Maryland) The polls in Virginia are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.; D.C....
Oct
30
2004
catching up
I haven't had time to post regular updates to this blog for the past couple weeks, as I've wound up one job and started another, so, in lieu of writing a lot of individual entries about the random things that...
I haven't had time to post regular updates to this blog for the past couple weeks, as I've wound up one job and started another, so, in lieu of writing a lot of individual entries about the random things that...
Oct
29
2004
Oct
22
2004
competing realities
A new report from the Program on International Policy Attitudes at the University of Maryland finds key disparities between George W. Bush and John Kerry supporters with regard to their understanding of certain key facts about the war in Iraq....
A new report from the Program on International Policy Attitudes at the University of Maryland finds key disparities between George W. Bush and John Kerry supporters with regard to their understanding of certain key facts about the war in Iraq....
Oct
20
2004
rapid response
There have been a number of stories over the course of this election season about each campaign's "rapid response team," charged with keeping tabs on everything going on in the opposition's campaign and in the media and quickly mobilzing a...
There have been a number of stories over the course of this election season about each campaign's "rapid response team," charged with keeping tabs on everything going on in the opposition's campaign and in the media and quickly mobilzing a...
Oct
13
2004
post online
For anyone interested in online journalism, washingtonpost.com's Live Online had a chat today with Doug Feaver, executive editor of washingtonpost.com. Feaver responded to a wide range of questions, from site minutiae to broader concerns about online newspapers as a business....
For anyone interested in online journalism, washingtonpost.com's Live Online had a chat today with Doug Feaver, executive editor of washingtonpost.com. Feaver responded to a wide range of questions, from site minutiae to broader concerns about online newspapers as a business....
Oct
4
2004
signing the paperwork
If you're planning to vote in next month's election and you haven't registered yet, time is running out. If you live in Virginia or Washington, D.C., the deadline is today. Maryland residents have until Oct. 12 to register. Maryland State...
If you're planning to vote in next month's election and you haven't registered yet, time is running out. If you live in Virginia or Washington, D.C., the deadline is today. Maryland residents have until Oct. 12 to register. Maryland State...
Oct
2
2004
there's an election going on?
This is an incredibly important, hotly contested election year. But around here, unless you follow the major news outlets, you might not know it. I was actually a little shocked when I heard political radio advertisements in Seattle and Denver...
This is an incredibly important, hotly contested election year. But around here, unless you follow the major news outlets, you might not know it. I was actually a little shocked when I heard political radio advertisements in Seattle and Denver...
seen: dismissed
From a Washington Post story about the difficulty foreign journalists are having in gaining access to presidential campaign officials. ("Foreign Reporters A World Apart In the Campaign" - 10/01/04) One Democratic campaign official ranks the foreign press "about on a...
From a Washington Post story about the difficulty foreign journalists are having in gaining access to presidential campaign officials. ("Foreign Reporters A World Apart In the Campaign" - 10/01/04) One Democratic campaign official ranks the foreign press "about on a...
Sep
27
2004
the slacker zone
Daily Show viewers may be "slackers" -- but they're well-informed slackers, at least compared to their non-Daily Show-watching demographic counterparts. After Fox News personality Bill O'Reilly dismissed the Daily Show audience as a bunch of "stoned slackers" watching a "dopey...
Daily Show viewers may be "slackers" -- but they're well-informed slackers, at least compared to their non-Daily Show-watching demographic counterparts. After Fox News personality Bill O'Reilly dismissed the Daily Show audience as a bunch of "stoned slackers" watching a "dopey...
Sep
17
2004
jump the shark?
With all the attention lavished on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart in this election cycle, I'm beginning to wonder if (or when) the show is going to cross the line from subversive political satire to mainstream infotainment. If it...
With all the attention lavished on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart in this election cycle, I'm beginning to wonder if (or when) the show is going to cross the line from subversive political satire to mainstream infotainment. If it...
Aug
25
2004
jibjab away
Wired reported yesterday that Ludlow Music has dropped its lawsuit against "This Land Is Your Land" parody site JibJab, as, owing to a copyright snafu, the song is in the public domain. ("JibJab Is Free for You and Me" -...
Wired reported yesterday that Ludlow Music has dropped its lawsuit against "This Land Is Your Land" parody site JibJab, as, owing to a copyright snafu, the song is in the public domain. ("JibJab Is Free for You and Me" -...
Aug
24
2004
PSA
TV Public Service Announcement: Democratic presidential contender John Kerry is appearing tonight on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. While political figures certainly aren't strangers to the show (all of the Democratic hopefuls except Kerry appeared on the show this...
TV Public Service Announcement: Democratic presidential contender John Kerry is appearing tonight on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart. While political figures certainly aren't strangers to the show (all of the Democratic hopefuls except Kerry appeared on the show this...
Aug
22
2004
recruitment
Last night was Kat's going-away party at her swank Crystal City apartment. (She's off to California to join a Ph.D. program at Stanford.) The evening provided some memorable moments, including this one: While chatting with a couple of the other...
Last night was Kat's going-away party at her swank Crystal City apartment. (She's off to California to join a Ph.D. program at Stanford.) The evening provided some memorable moments, including this one: While chatting with a couple of the other...
Aug
4
2004
loyalty oath
Who needs comedy and satire, when reality is hilariously discomfiting enough as it is? In a move reminiscent of the novel Catch-22's Loyalty Oath Crusade, the Bush/Cheney campaign required some would-be attendees at a Dick Cheney campaign appearance in New...
Who needs comedy and satire, when reality is hilariously discomfiting enough as it is? In a move reminiscent of the novel Catch-22's Loyalty Oath Crusade, the Bush/Cheney campaign required some would-be attendees at a Dick Cheney campaign appearance in New...
straight talk
Continuing the apparent Bush parody tangent ... Comedian Will Ferrell reprises his role as President George W. Bush from SNL in the "Straight Talk from White House West" ad campaign from political advocacy group America Coming Together. The commercial is...
Continuing the apparent Bush parody tangent ... Comedian Will Ferrell reprises his role as President George W. Bush from SNL in the "Straight Talk from White House West" ad campaign from political advocacy group America Coming Together. The commercial is...
Aug
3
2004
mouthpiece
Put your words in President George W. Bush's mouth! At BushSpeech.org, max Min has put together a nifty Flash-based application where you can script your own presidential address and then have Mr. Bush deliver it. This interactive president has a...
Put your words in President George W. Bush's mouth! At BushSpeech.org, max Min has put together a nifty Flash-based application where you can script your own presidential address and then have Mr. Bush deliver it. This interactive president has a...
Aug
1
2004
seen: appearances
Headline of the day, courtesy of the New York Times: White House Says Deficit Forecast Isn't as Bad as It Looks Nevermind that the $475 billion projected deficit, while less than what was initially projected, is still almost 20 percent...
Headline of the day, courtesy of the New York Times: White House Says Deficit Forecast Isn't as Bad as It Looks Nevermind that the $475 billion projected deficit, while less than what was initially projected, is still almost 20 percent...
Jul
27
2004
blogging through
For the Democratic National Convention this week in Boston, DC political magazine National Journal is offering both a daily convention newspaper and a convention weblog updated throughout the event. (A friend of mine is posting as "The Editors.") The blog...
For the Democratic National Convention this week in Boston, DC political magazine National Journal is offering both a daily convention newspaper and a convention weblog updated throughout the event. (A friend of mine is posting as "The Editors.") The blog...
Jul
23
2004
jibjab
Someone took a lot of time putting this election year remake of "This Land Is Your Land" together. It's hilarous and unsettling all at the same time. One of my co-workers suggested that it's catchier and more concise than a...
Someone took a lot of time putting this election year remake of "This Land Is Your Land" together. It's hilarous and unsettling all at the same time. One of my co-workers suggested that it's catchier and more concise than a...
Jun
17
2004
delegation
I've been fascinated -- and more than a little concerned -- by the most recent reports issued by the 9/11 Commission. But aside from the drama and terror of that day, not to mention all the accounts of miscommunication and...
I've been fascinated -- and more than a little concerned -- by the most recent reports issued by the 9/11 Commission. But aside from the drama and terror of that day, not to mention all the accounts of miscommunication and...
Jun
10
2004
reaganite
Almost a week later, I'm still rather ambivalent about the death of former President Ronald Reagan. I understand to some degree, on an intellectual level, the significance of his passing and what his presidency and "public face" has represented to...
Almost a week later, I'm still rather ambivalent about the death of former President Ronald Reagan. I understand to some degree, on an intellectual level, the significance of his passing and what his presidency and "public face" has represented to...
Jun
3
2004
directed out of the picture
This morning brought the breaking news that CIA Director George Tenet has submitted his resignation and will be leaving for "personal reasons" at end of July. (AP: "CIA Director Tenet Resigns" - 06/03/04) (I learned about the resignation from my...
This morning brought the breaking news that CIA Director George Tenet has submitted his resignation and will be leaving for "personal reasons" at end of July. (AP: "CIA Director Tenet Resigns" - 06/03/04) (I learned about the resignation from my...
May
12
2004
reason one million and 47
... why I despise conservative pundit Ann Coulter. From a roundup at Salon.com: Meanwhile, right-wing pundit and syndicated columnist Ann Coulter weighed in on the torture issue with her own thoughtful analysis. Last week on the Fox News show "Hannity...
... why I despise conservative pundit Ann Coulter. From a roundup at Salon.com: Meanwhile, right-wing pundit and syndicated columnist Ann Coulter weighed in on the torture issue with her own thoughtful analysis. Last week on the Fox News show "Hannity...
May
4
2004
better things to do
Washington Post White House reporter Dana Milbank has a fun tribute to departing White House pool reporter Bob Kemper, who has moved from covering the White House for the Chicago Tribune to a new job with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ("In...
Washington Post White House reporter Dana Milbank has a fun tribute to departing White House pool reporter Bob Kemper, who has moved from covering the White House for the Chicago Tribune to a new job with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. ("In...
Apr
26
2004
tuckered out
I've written before about my disdain for CNN Crossfire host Tucker Carlson. Now comes a story from Salon that lowers my opinion of him that much more. ("Outsourcing the War" - 04/16/04) ...industry insiders could only shake their heads when...
I've written before about my disdain for CNN Crossfire host Tucker Carlson. Now comes a story from Salon that lowers my opinion of him that much more. ("Outsourcing the War" - 04/16/04) ...industry insiders could only shake their heads when...
Apr
25
2004
contributions of women
I ran across an interesting factoid this evening while doing research for my paper. According to a report on opensecrets.org, a campaign finance Web site sponsored by the Center for Responsive Politics, while women are contributing to the George W....
I ran across an interesting factoid this evening while doing research for my paper. According to a report on opensecrets.org, a campaign finance Web site sponsored by the Center for Responsive Politics, while women are contributing to the George W....
Apr
24
2004
wafer watch
With the apparent philosophical split between presidential hopeful John Kerry and the Catholic church on the issue of abortion, the press has put Kerry on a kind of "wafer watch," to use the words of columnist Ellen Goodman, waiting to...
With the apparent philosophical split between presidential hopeful John Kerry and the Catholic church on the issue of abortion, the press has put Kerry on a kind of "wafer watch," to use the words of columnist Ellen Goodman, waiting to...
Apr
22
2004
on deadline
That old "working on deadline, doing journalism" thrill is coming back. I'm updating the convention Web site throughout the day as photos and copy become available. It's probably fairly mundane work, but I love the hurried pace I'm working at...
That old "working on deadline, doing journalism" thrill is coming back. I'm updating the convention Web site throughout the day as photos and copy become available. It's probably fairly mundane work, but I love the hurried pace I'm working at...
Apr
19
2004
we report, you decide
An interesting factoid that came up in my reading for class last night: People who watched Fox News (particularly if they followed the news closely via Fox News) were more likely to hold certain key misperceptions about the U.S. war...
An interesting factoid that came up in my reading for class last night: People who watched Fox News (particularly if they followed the news closely via Fox News) were more likely to hold certain key misperceptions about the U.S. war...
Mar
30
2004
advertorial juxtaposition
I was startled this morning to see a "big box" web advertisement for the John Kerry campaign nestled inside a story about the Kerry campaign. ("Kerry to Unveil Plan to Reduce Gas Prices" - 03/30/04) It's a strange kind of...
I was startled this morning to see a "big box" web advertisement for the John Kerry campaign nestled inside a story about the Kerry campaign. ("Kerry to Unveil Plan to Reduce Gas Prices" - 03/30/04) It's a strange kind of...
Mar
15
2004
seen: campaign poster
A "Wesley Clark 2004" campaign poster was taped in the window of a Georgetown University dorm room on Prospect Street. Beneath the poster, in indignant 72-point Times, was a computer-printed message: HE IS NOT A VAMPIRE! I'll take their word...
A "Wesley Clark 2004" campaign poster was taped in the window of a Georgetown University dorm room on Prospect Street. Beneath the poster, in indignant 72-point Times, was a computer-printed message: HE IS NOT A VAMPIRE! I'll take their word...
whack-a-veep
There's been a good bit of name-tossing-about lately about who John Kerry might pick to be his running mate in the general election. Edwards? Dean? Hillary? I want to see a Kerry/McCain ticket.
There's been a good bit of name-tossing-about lately about who John Kerry might pick to be his running mate in the general election. Edwards? Dean? Hillary? I want to see a Kerry/McCain ticket.
Feb
5
2004
added incentive
In my random musings about what my next car will be, I've been eyeing the gas/electric Honda Civic Hybrid. It's compact, gets fantastic gas mileage and isn't uber-expensive. Not that, with college loan payments coming up in the next year,...
In my random musings about what my next car will be, I've been eyeing the gas/electric Honda Civic Hybrid. It's compact, gets fantastic gas mileage and isn't uber-expensive. Not that, with college loan payments coming up in the next year,...
Jan
22
2004
navel-gazing
After Howard Dean's third-place showing in the Iowa caucus, pundits are reconsidering their zeal for the candidate and his unconventional means of drumming up support. Salon's Farhad Manjoo equates it with the dot-com bust: Dean was propelled upward by insanely...
After Howard Dean's third-place showing in the Iowa caucus, pundits are reconsidering their zeal for the candidate and his unconventional means of drumming up support. Salon's Farhad Manjoo equates it with the dot-com bust: Dean was propelled upward by insanely...
Jan
16
2004
focus group
This was forwarded to the CCT listserv this morning. Could be fun... WANT TO BE ON NATIONAL TELEVISION? Dear interested focus group members: We are now doing a special STATE OF THE UNION SHOW on Tuesday, January 20th that 8:30pm...
This was forwarded to the CCT listserv this morning. Could be fun... WANT TO BE ON NATIONAL TELEVISION? Dear interested focus group members: We are now doing a special STATE OF THE UNION SHOW on Tuesday, January 20th that 8:30pm...
Dec
26
2003
politics and the internet
Several news outlets have interesting stories about the ever-increasing role of the Internet in the political campaign process. Wired: "How the Internet Invented Howard Dean" (Jan. 2004) The biggest news of the political season has been the tale of this...
Several news outlets have interesting stories about the ever-increasing role of the Internet in the political campaign process. Wired: "How the Internet Invented Howard Dean" (Jan. 2004) The biggest news of the political season has been the tale of this...
Dec
19
2003
long, hard slog
A Washington Post op-ed piece today mentions that, instead of offering separate medals for service in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Pengaton is instead offering a single medal to soldiers who have served in one or both wars. ("Military Medals and...
A Washington Post op-ed piece today mentions that, instead of offering separate medals for service in Afghanistan and Iraq, the Pengaton is instead offering a single medal to soldiers who have served in one or both wars. ("Military Medals and...
Dec
12
2003
quote of the day: international law
"International law? I better call my lawyer. I don't know what you're talking about, about international law." - President George W. Bush, when told that Germany's chancellor suggested that barring non-coalition countries from Iraq reconstruction contracts violates international law. (Slate's...
"International law? I better call my lawyer. I don't know what you're talking about, about international law." - President George W. Bush, when told that Germany's chancellor suggested that barring non-coalition countries from Iraq reconstruction contracts violates international law. (Slate's...
Dec
11
2003
sore loserman
The big political news the other day (aside from the court ruling on campaign finance reform) was that Al Gore announced his endorsement for Howard Dean -- over Gore's 200 running mate Joe Lieberman. (Washington Post: "Gore Endorses Dean, Citing...
The big political news the other day (aside from the court ruling on campaign finance reform) was that Al Gore announced his endorsement for Howard Dean -- over Gore's 200 running mate Joe Lieberman. (Washington Post: "Gore Endorses Dean, Citing...
Dec
7
2003
ap chinese
When I was in high school, I took a number of Advanced Placement classes. Do well enough in the class, and then well enough on the standardized test at the end of the semester, and you can earn college credit....
When I was in high school, I took a number of Advanced Placement classes. Do well enough in the class, and then well enough on the standardized test at the end of the semester, and you can earn college credit....
nra as news outlet?
The Associated Press reports that the National Rifle Association, seeking to evade campaign finance restrictions, is interested in buying a television or radio outlet so that it can argue its status as a news organization rather than a political interest...
The Associated Press reports that the National Rifle Association, seeking to evade campaign finance restrictions, is interested in buying a television or radio outlet so that it can argue its status as a news organization rather than a political interest...
Dec
5
2003
not dead yet
Out with FDR, in with RR. The Associated Press reports that Republican lawmakers in the House have introuduced legislation to put former President Ronald Reagan's face on the dime, replacing Franklin Delano Roosevelt. ("Conservatives Want Reagan on Dimes" - 12/05/03)...
Out with FDR, in with RR. The Associated Press reports that Republican lawmakers in the House have introuduced legislation to put former President Ronald Reagan's face on the dime, replacing Franklin Delano Roosevelt. ("Conservatives Want Reagan on Dimes" - 12/05/03)...
keep your phone number
From the "fun juxtapositions" department ... Today's Washington Post reports that AT&T has gotten into some trouble with the FCC because of customer complaints that it's dragged its feet about wireless number portability. ("FCC May Act Against AT&T Wireless" -...
From the "fun juxtapositions" department ... Today's Washington Post reports that AT&T has gotten into some trouble with the FCC because of customer complaints that it's dragged its feet about wireless number portability. ("FCC May Act Against AT&T Wireless" -...
Dec
3
2003
politics and religion
Further evidence, I guess, of our increasingly "red and blue" polarized country: A poll conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found, among other things, that church attendance can be a strong indicator of party...
Further evidence, I guess, of our increasingly "red and blue" polarized country: A poll conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press found, among other things, that church attendance can be a strong indicator of party...
Nov
25
2003
name that anonymous source
The mainstream media's reliance on anonymous sources has risen to near-ridiculous levels, if criticism by outlets like Slate is to be believed. In the wake of the Valerie Plame/CIA "outing" scandal, Slate's Jack Shafer wrote about the trouble of relying...
The mainstream media's reliance on anonymous sources has risen to near-ridiculous levels, if criticism by outlets like Slate is to be believed. In the wake of the Valerie Plame/CIA "outing" scandal, Slate's Jack Shafer wrote about the trouble of relying...
juggled priorities
Slate has an interesting/funny story about affluent Americans who, while enjoying the monetary benefits of President Bush's tax cuts, are also railing against the Bush administration's policies and even campaigning for Democratic candidates. ("Bobos in Purgatory" - 11/13/03) At both...
Slate has an interesting/funny story about affluent Americans who, while enjoying the monetary benefits of President Bush's tax cuts, are also railing against the Bush administration's policies and even campaigning for Democratic candidates. ("Bobos in Purgatory" - 11/13/03) At both...
Nov
5
2003
life imitates art imitates life
I think my boss is writing for The Onion. Either that, or the absurdity that is my office has ascended to a form of sublime art. (Thanks to Dari for the link.)...
I think my boss is writing for The Onion. Either that, or the absurdity that is my office has ascended to a form of sublime art. (Thanks to Dari for the link.)...
Nov
3
2003
chat up a presidential candidate
Have a burning question for Howard Dean or Wesley Clark? The Washington Post and the Concord Monitor are sponsoring a series of moderated online chats this week with the Democratic candidates for president. All the candidates except Dean have confirmed...
Have a burning question for Howard Dean or Wesley Clark? The Washington Post and the Concord Monitor are sponsoring a series of moderated online chats this week with the Democratic candidates for president. All the candidates except Dean have confirmed...
catholic (tm)
Does the Vatican own the word "Catholic"? Slate had an interesting story last Friday about the varied usage of the word "catholic" with regard to religion. ("'Property of Rome'?" - 10/31/03) The article was prompted by the recent case of...
Does the Vatican own the word "Catholic"? Slate had an interesting story last Friday about the varied usage of the word "catholic" with regard to religion. ("'Property of Rome'?" - 10/31/03) The article was prompted by the recent case of...
Oct
23
2003
enemies list
The National Rifle Association apparently has an online "enemies list" of sorts. The organization's site about its legislative efforts includes a fact sheet listing "anti-gun" organizations, companies, public figures, journalists and media outlets. The following organizations have lent monetary, grassroots...
The National Rifle Association apparently has an online "enemies list" of sorts. The organization's site about its legislative efforts includes a fact sheet listing "anti-gun" organizations, companies, public figures, journalists and media outlets. The following organizations have lent monetary, grassroots...
Oct
13
2003
colorful currency
The new, more colorful $20 bill made its debut this past Friday. The new bills feature a host of new anti-counterfeiting measures. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing has a cool site devoted to the new bills, including the Money...
The new, more colorful $20 bill made its debut this past Friday. The new bills feature a host of new anti-counterfeiting measures. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing has a cool site devoted to the new bills, including the Money...
more holes than a 'batman' plot
Salon comic strip artist Tom Tomorrow has a funny take on the whole White Hosue/CIA leak scandal in today's edition of "This Modern World." (Thanks to Dari for the link.)...
Salon comic strip artist Tom Tomorrow has a funny take on the whole White Hosue/CIA leak scandal in today's edition of "This Modern World." (Thanks to Dari for the link.)...
reinvented
Today's Arizona Republic has a story about the overhaul of the former Williams Air Force Base, where I was born on my dad's first day of pilot training. The base closed in the early 1990s, and since then the land...
Today's Arizona Republic has a story about the overhaul of the former Williams Air Force Base, where I was born on my dad's first day of pilot training. The base closed in the early 1990s, and since then the land...
Oct
1
2003
catholic constitutional quandary
Pope John Paul II has been ill for some time, although reports have varied as to just how badly age, Parkinson's Disease, hip ailments and the like have affected the Pope's health. With another report of the Pope's worsening health,...
Pope John Paul II has been ill for some time, although reports have varied as to just how badly age, Parkinson's Disease, hip ailments and the like have affected the Pope's health. With another report of the Pope's worsening health,...
word of the day: frog-march
The Washington Post did a whole story today about the colorful term "frog-march," used recently by former ambassador Joseph C. Wilson IV regarding the person he suspects leaked his wife's identity and occupation to several reporters: "At the end of...
The Washington Post did a whole story today about the colorful term "frog-march," used recently by former ambassador Joseph C. Wilson IV regarding the person he suspects leaked his wife's identity and occupation to several reporters: "At the end of...
Sep
25
2003
china censors clinton
The New York Times reported Monday that the Chinese edition of Hillary Clinton's memoir Living History is notably different from the English version, with passages critical of the Chinese government (and of Chinese censors) excised from the translated text. ("Clinton...
The New York Times reported Monday that the Chinese edition of Hillary Clinton's memoir Living History is notably different from the English version, with passages critical of the Chinese government (and of Chinese censors) excised from the translated text. ("Clinton...
Sep
15
2003
anonymice
Slate's Jack Shafer last week offered a good round-up of how "anonymous sources" are using the press to spin their sides of the story these days -- and how the press is letting them. ("How Far Can You Trust Anonymice?"...
Slate's Jack Shafer last week offered a good round-up of how "anonymous sources" are using the press to spin their sides of the story these days -- and how the press is letting them. ("How Far Can You Trust Anonymice?"...
Sep
12
2003
ejected
The Washington Post reports that the new HBO reality show K Street, produced by George Clooney and Steven Soderbergh, has been banned from shooting in the U.S. Capitol and Senate office buildings. A memo recently circulated around the Senate reminding...
The Washington Post reports that the new HBO reality show K Street, produced by George Clooney and Steven Soderbergh, has been banned from shooting in the U.S. Capitol and Senate office buildings. A memo recently circulated around the Senate reminding...
Aug
27
2003
toxic dust
Earlier this month, Salon ran a story about the effect that the dust and debris from the collapsed twin towers have had on the residents of lower Manhattan, particularly those closest to the site of the former World Trade Center....
Earlier this month, Salon ran a story about the effect that the dust and debris from the collapsed twin towers have had on the residents of lower Manhattan, particularly those closest to the site of the former World Trade Center....
Aug
19
2003
WeLoveArnold.com
The folks behind WeLoveTheIraqiInformationMinister.com (fansite for the eloquent former Iraqi information minister) have put up a new site in honor of California gubernatorial candidate Arnold Schwarzenegger, WeLoveArnold.com. This site emerges from a cease-fire between two camps of Arnold-lovers: those who...
The folks behind WeLoveTheIraqiInformationMinister.com (fansite for the eloquent former Iraqi information minister) have put up a new site in honor of California gubernatorial candidate Arnold Schwarzenegger, WeLoveArnold.com. This site emerges from a cease-fire between two camps of Arnold-lovers: those who...
wordplay
Today's Washington Post notes President Bush's first use of the word "combat" in referring to U.S. military activity in Iraq since his May 1 announcement of the end of "major combat operations." Ironically, it came during an interview with the...
Today's Washington Post notes President Bush's first use of the word "combat" in referring to U.S. military activity in Iraq since his May 1 announcement of the end of "major combat operations." Ironically, it came during an interview with the...
Aug
16
2003
social insecurity
If your wallet is stolen, you stand a chance of being a victim not only of credit card and bank fraud, but of identity theft as well. States are now (thankfully) moving away from using people's Social Security numbers on...
If your wallet is stolen, you stand a chance of being a victim not only of credit card and bank fraud, but of identity theft as well. States are now (thankfully) moving away from using people's Social Security numbers on...
Aug
13
2003
political polling
For all you political junkies and polling geeks ... washingtonpost.com hosted a chat today with WP polling directors Richard Morin and Claudia Deane regarding the results of recent public opinion polls -- "How does the country view President Bush's handling...
For all you political junkies and polling geeks ... washingtonpost.com hosted a chat today with WP polling directors Richard Morin and Claudia Deane regarding the results of recent public opinion polls -- "How does the country view President Bush's handling...
Aug
12
2003
letter of the law
Today's Arizona Republic details the sad -- and frustrating -- story of 24-year-old Jose Didiel Muņoz, who has been ordered deported to Guatemala despite having lived in the United States almost since birth. ("Court orders deportation but declares it 'pointless'"...
Today's Arizona Republic details the sad -- and frustrating -- story of 24-year-old Jose Didiel Muņoz, who has been ordered deported to Guatemala despite having lived in the United States almost since birth. ("Court orders deportation but declares it 'pointless'"...
Aug
4
2003
on the blogging bandwagon
First Howard Dean. Now Sen. Tom Daschle (D-S.D.) has joined the blogging bandwagon, with his new weblog Travels with Tom. Daschle himself is writing updates from the road as he travels South Dakota and meets with constituents. For the last...
First Howard Dean. Now Sen. Tom Daschle (D-S.D.) has joined the blogging bandwagon, with his new weblog Travels with Tom. Daschle himself is writing updates from the road as he travels South Dakota and meets with constituents. For the last...
Jul
25
2003
name your scandal
Washington Post columnist Al Kamen challenged his "In the Loop" readers to come up with a catchy name for the current controversies over WMDs, uranium, President Bush's State of the Union, et al. ("WMD May as Well Be a Four-Letter...
Washington Post columnist Al Kamen challenged his "In the Loop" readers to come up with a catchy name for the current controversies over WMDs, uranium, President Bush's State of the Union, et al. ("WMD May as Well Be a Four-Letter...
campaign work
I took "Strategy and Message Development" this summer in GW's Graduate School of Political Management. The focus of the class is learning how to craft a core campaign message and then parlay that message into a campaign strategy via speeches...
I took "Strategy and Message Development" this summer in GW's Graduate School of Political Management. The focus of the class is learning how to craft a core campaign message and then parlay that message into a campaign strategy via speeches...
Jun
30
2003
liability black hole
Since the TSA has taken over the business of airport security, they've asked airline passengers not to lock their luggage, as it's all subject to search by TSA employees. The passage of unlocked luggage through multiple jurisdictions -- the TSA,...
Since the TSA has taken over the business of airport security, they've asked airline passengers not to lock their luggage, as it's all subject to search by TSA employees. The passage of unlocked luggage through multiple jurisdictions -- the TSA,...
apple politics
Rush Limbaugh apparently blames Al Gore for Apple's less-than-stellar market share. ("Why Does Apple Put Politics First?" - 06/27/03) Apple is apparently a company that is so constrained by the political views of its corporate leadership and board, which now...
Rush Limbaugh apparently blames Al Gore for Apple's less-than-stellar market share. ("Why Does Apple Put Politics First?" - 06/27/03) Apple is apparently a company that is so constrained by the political views of its corporate leadership and board, which now...
Jun
27
2003
strom thurmond
Former Sen. Strom Thurmond (R-S.C.) died last night at the age of 100. (The State (S.C.): "Strom Thurmond, S.C. Legend, Dies" - 06/27/03) I'm pretty sure the news orgs have had their prefab obits for Thurmond all set and ready...
Former Sen. Strom Thurmond (R-S.C.) died last night at the age of 100. (The State (S.C.): "Strom Thurmond, S.C. Legend, Dies" - 06/27/03) I'm pretty sure the news orgs have had their prefab obits for Thurmond all set and ready...
Jun
25
2003
sneak peek at dubya's campaign web site
A still-in-development version of the Bush/Cheney 2004 campaign site was mistakenly publicly available yesterday. Slate offers up a snarky review -- and screenshots! -- of the new site. ("Re-Elect Bush: Beta Version" - 06/24/03) The site is obviously still in...
A still-in-development version of the Bush/Cheney 2004 campaign site was mistakenly publicly available yesterday. Slate offers up a snarky review -- and screenshots! -- of the new site. ("Re-Elect Bush: Beta Version" - 06/24/03) The site is obviously still in...
Jun
21
2003
ever the diplomat
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld has apparently switched from offending foreign governments -- thereby mucking up foreign relations during a sensitive time -- to offending domestic municipalities. The Washington Post reports that in a briefing on Wednesday, Rumsfeld suggested that Baghdad...
Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld has apparently switched from offending foreign governments -- thereby mucking up foreign relations during a sensitive time -- to offending domestic municipalities. The Washington Post reports that in a briefing on Wednesday, Rumsfeld suggested that Baghdad...
Jun
18
2003
the art of punditry
Wayne Slater offers a few basic tips in this month's Texas Monthly on how to be a good television/radio political pundit. ("How to Sound Smart on TV" - July 2003) In short: Don't worry too much about what they're going...
Wayne Slater offers a few basic tips in this month's Texas Monthly on how to be a good television/radio political pundit. ("How to Sound Smart on TV" - July 2003) In short: Don't worry too much about what they're going...
Jun
4
2003
chatter
FBI agents investigating online child pornography are getting a lesson in instant messaging from real authorities on the subject -- eighth grade girls. Today's Washington Post reports that the FBI is consulting with teens to learn the proper lingo and...
FBI agents investigating online child pornography are getting a lesson in instant messaging from real authorities on the subject -- eighth grade girls. Today's Washington Post reports that the FBI is consulting with teens to learn the proper lingo and...
May
16
2003
and they're off...
The 2004 election race really starts heating up today, with the official announcement of President Bush's re-election campaign. (Washington Post: "Bush Kicks Off Reelection Bid" - 05/16/03) Fundraising efforts may start as early as Monday. On the Democratic side, Senator...
The 2004 election race really starts heating up today, with the official announcement of President Bush's re-election campaign. (Washington Post: "Bush Kicks Off Reelection Bid" - 05/16/03) Fundraising efforts may start as early as Monday. On the Democratic side, Senator...
May
4
2003
now and later
It's amazing what a difference a few years makes. In Slate on Thursday, Michael Kinsley contrasted the mandates of the 1995 "Contract with America," which included a proposed constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget for the federal government, and the...
It's amazing what a difference a few years makes. In Slate on Thursday, Michael Kinsley contrasted the mandates of the 1995 "Contract with America," which included a proposed constitutional amendment requiring a balanced budget for the federal government, and the...
Apr
22
2003
committee to re-elect the president
The Bush re-election campaign has begun to ramp up... Today's New York Times reports on elements of Bush & co.'s re-election campaign strategy. ("For 2004, Bush's Aides Plan Late Sprint for Re-election" - 04/22/03) Slate's "Today's Papers" summation of the...
The Bush re-election campaign has begun to ramp up... Today's New York Times reports on elements of Bush & co.'s re-election campaign strategy. ("For 2004, Bush's Aides Plan Late Sprint for Re-election" - 04/22/03) Slate's "Today's Papers" summation of the...
Apr
20
2003
hyperdebt
Today's New York Times has an interesting piece talking about the contrast of the U.S. as "hyperpower" -- and "hyperdebtor." ("The True Cost of Hegemony: Huge Debt" - 04/20/03) For the fact is that America is not only the world's...
Today's New York Times has an interesting piece talking about the contrast of the U.S. as "hyperpower" -- and "hyperdebtor." ("The True Cost of Hegemony: Huge Debt" - 04/20/03) For the fact is that America is not only the world's...
Mar
30
2003
don't they have more important things to do?
Our war against the French continues... The Washington Post reports that a number of U.S. congressmen are lobbying the Department of Defense to cancel its military food-service contacts with Sodexho Inc., the American subsidiary of the French-owned company Sodexho Alliance...
Our war against the French continues... The Washington Post reports that a number of U.S. congressmen are lobbying the Department of Defense to cancel its military food-service contacts with Sodexho Inc., the American subsidiary of the French-owned company Sodexho Alliance...
Mar
27
2003
slamming the french ... again
The French continue to be slammed and shunned. WP's Lloyd Grove reports: Yesterday, in "an important culinary note" from President Bush's visit to Central Command headquarters in Tampa, the Houston Chronicle's Bennett Roth led his White House pool report: "The...
The French continue to be slammed and shunned. WP's Lloyd Grove reports: Yesterday, in "an important culinary note" from President Bush's visit to Central Command headquarters in Tampa, the Houston Chronicle's Bennett Roth led his White House pool report: "The...
Mar
24
2003
a different cost of war
The U.S. is giving a number of our allies in the Iraq conflict added incentive to help out, in the form of financial assistance. Forbes has a list of funds the Bush administration proposes to allot to various countries involved...
The U.S. is giving a number of our allies in the Iraq conflict added incentive to help out, in the form of financial assistance. Forbes has a list of funds the Bush administration proposes to allot to various countries involved...
the real cost of war
My friend Danielle forwarded this to me over the weekend. It's interesting -- and staggering -- to consider the real cost of war. I got this info off of Patriots for Peace and Nonviolence.org. It is truly amazing to see...
My friend Danielle forwarded this to me over the weekend. It's interesting -- and staggering -- to consider the real cost of war. I got this info off of Patriots for Peace and Nonviolence.org. It is truly amazing to see...
Mar
17
2003
chilling effect
The San Francisco Chronicle reported Saturday that an anti-war protester travelling from Seattle to San Diego found a complaint about his "anti-American attitude" written on a card inserted into his luggage after a TSA search. ("Traveler with anti-war signs finds...
The San Francisco Chronicle reported Saturday that an anti-war protester travelling from Seattle to San Diego found a complaint about his "anti-American attitude" written on a card inserted into his luggage after a TSA search. ("Traveler with anti-war signs finds...
Mar
14
2003
identity theft gets scarier
MSNBC reports on about a decidedly scary case of identity theft in Wisconsin. ("The darkest side of ID theft" - 03/09/03) Over the past five years, Malcolm Byrd has several times been arrested on drug charges, lost his job, and...
MSNBC reports on about a decidedly scary case of identity theft in Wisconsin. ("The darkest side of ID theft" - 03/09/03) Over the past five years, Malcolm Byrd has several times been arrested on drug charges, lost his job, and...
Mar
11
2003
getting back at the french
CNN reports that two Republican congressmen have successfully campaigned to change the name of "French fries" and "French toast" offered at the House of Representatives' cafeterias to "freedom fries" and "freedom toast." ("House cafeterias change names for 'french fries' and...
CNN reports that two Republican congressmen have successfully campaigned to change the name of "French fries" and "French toast" offered at the House of Representatives' cafeterias to "freedom fries" and "freedom toast." ("House cafeterias change names for 'french fries' and...
on the job with ari
Once in a while, the Washington Post's "KidsPost" section offers some of the most interesting content in the paper... Today's KidsPost features an interview with White House press secretary Ari Fleischer, and an explanation of what his job is. ("The...
Once in a while, the Washington Post's "KidsPost" section offers some of the most interesting content in the paper... Today's KidsPost features an interview with White House press secretary Ari Fleischer, and an explanation of what his job is. ("The...
Mar
2
2003
from perjury to the jury box
Being a former president might not save you from the courtroom, but it might save you from jury duty. The New York Times reports that a Manhattan federal court had an unusual prospective juror: Bill Clinton. ("Civic Duty, Sure, but...
Being a former president might not save you from the courtroom, but it might save you from jury duty. The New York Times reports that a Manhattan federal court had an unusual prospective juror: Bill Clinton. ("Civic Duty, Sure, but...
Feb
21
2003
telecommuting: not just for slackers anymore
Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta has been phoning it in since late November, telecommuting from Walter Reed Army Medical Center. The Washington Post reports that Mineta, who has had chronic back problems, has "more or less lived at Walter Reed since...
Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta has been phoning it in since late November, telecommuting from Walter Reed Army Medical Center. The Washington Post reports that Mineta, who has had chronic back problems, has "more or less lived at Walter Reed since...
Feb
20
2003
probably not a nobel peace prize contender
Turkey recently asked the U.S. to up its compensation offer in exchange for Turkey's help in a war with Iraq. The New York Times reports that the administration is privately furious with the move, and is characteristically fuming about it...
Turkey recently asked the U.S. to up its compensation offer in exchange for Turkey's help in a war with Iraq. The New York Times reports that the administration is privately furious with the move, and is characteristically fuming about it...
Feb
11
2003
don't freak out. really.
The Washington Post and USA Today both front warnings from Homeland Security officials that citizens should stock up on emergency supplies and be prepared for a terrorist attack. (WP: "Terror Attack Steps Urged" - 02/11/03) Top federal officials yesterday issued...
The Washington Post and USA Today both front warnings from Homeland Security officials that citizens should stock up on emergency supplies and be prepared for a terrorist attack. (WP: "Terror Attack Steps Urged" - 02/11/03) Top federal officials yesterday issued...
Jan
29
2003
what's your social?
The United States supposedly doesn't have a national ID system. However, the social security number has become the defacto standard to identify and track individual citizens for everything from tax information to telephone bills -- and more. The omnipresent reliance...
The United States supposedly doesn't have a national ID system. However, the social security number has become the defacto standard to identify and track individual citizens for everything from tax information to telephone bills -- and more. The omnipresent reliance...
Jan
28
2003
state of the union
President Bush's State of the Union address airs tonight, beginning at 9 p.m. ET. The speech will air on the major networks / cable news channels. It can also be seen over the web via the White House site and...
President Bush's State of the Union address airs tonight, beginning at 9 p.m. ET. The speech will air on the major networks / cable news channels. It can also be seen over the web via the White House site and...
Jan
22
2003
'hardball' at georgetown
Chris Matthews's MSNBC show 'Hardball' is broadcasting tonight from Georgetown University. The theme of tonight's program is "The Road to War," and guest panelists include Peter Arnett (formerly of CNN), Bill Arkin (military analyst), and Gens. Barry McCaffrey and Wayne...
Chris Matthews's MSNBC show 'Hardball' is broadcasting tonight from Georgetown University. The theme of tonight's program is "The Road to War," and guest panelists include Peter Arnett (formerly of CNN), Bill Arkin (military analyst), and Gens. Barry McCaffrey and Wayne...
Jan
16
2003
north korea tries to make its case online
Slate posted a story Monday (DearLeader.com - Kim Jong-il's fanboy home page) about a curious website intended to convey North Korea's point of view to the Western world. The site is purportedly a volunteer project maintained by a 20-something Spaniard...
Slate posted a story Monday (DearLeader.com - Kim Jong-il's fanboy home page) about a curious website intended to convey North Korea's point of view to the Western world. The site is purportedly a volunteer project maintained by a 20-something Spaniard...
Nov
25
2002
rank-and-file
In the U.S., you can dance to the beat of a different drummer, but come election time, you'd better vote either Democrat or Republican. None of this third-party "independent" nonsense. Those of us who voted Nader in 2000 -- the...
In the U.S., you can dance to the beat of a different drummer, but come election time, you'd better vote either Democrat or Republican. None of this third-party "independent" nonsense. Those of us who voted Nader in 2000 -- the...
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