[jmaroneps37]

This is just part of the slick rat media M.O. He asked the question now, 18 months out so he could get on the sheet for having asked a tough question or two. Wait until crunch time. The closer we get to giddy up time the more softball the questions will get, bank on it.

[governsleastgovernsbest]

As I stated in my original post, I'm not suggesting that Lauer has undergone some fundamental change. He is and remains a Democrat. And yes, as the election gets closer, he probably will get tougher on President Bush and easier on the Dems.

But by the same token I don't really think this is part of some calculated strategy. I think it just reflects Lauer's acknowldedgement of reality: that barring some unforeseen developments it would be very difficult for any Dem to defeat President Bush.