[Liz]

My thoughts precisely——and if by some strange osmosis Rooty had scored a biggie last night, Podheretz would be singing a different tune.

It’s amazing how these types slip back and forth between their various personnae.

[CharlesWayneCT]

I wish we hadn’t banned so many Rudy people, it would have been fun to watch them try to explain this. They would have needed all new quotes from Simon and Olson. :-)

[LS]

I find it odd that you are criticizing Podhoretz for reporting honestly. Lessee, you would bash him if he continued to SUPPORT Rudy despite a bad performance, but you bash him when he says Rudy performed poorly. The poor guy can't win.

The fact is, Rudy had a pretty good 2-3 months, and now is having a bad month. Stuff happens. I don't think the "good" performance by McClame or Mitt is going to gain them much support, although Rudy's support might fall. All that has happened is that more of the base has gone back into "hope hybernation" waiting for either Fred Thompson or Newt to announce. Then we'll really see where the race stands.