[Ernest_at_the_Beach]

The only way Kerry is leaving is through Clinton dirty tricks. Not impossible, but not so easy as people think. Kerry doesn't want to get thrown under the bus, and he won't go quietly. Why should he? He's not Torricelli.

OK.... I fell better now, I think.

I sure don't want to see Hillary!

[Batrachian]

Oh, I didn't mean to be reassuring. There's nothing reassuring about Democrats, especially the Clintons. I only meant to say that Kerry doesn't take marching orders from them and will fight to maintain his position.

I always thought that Kerry would be the eventual nominee, although I changed my mind when Dean came on strong and Kerry was sinking. I think my original sense was correct and Kerry will be the nominee, and I still think that he's well liked and respected by Democrat voters.

Even so, he's really just a place holder. Someone has to run this year, and he's the best of a bad lot, so he gets the nod. 2008 is when you should really worry.