At the moment, Cheney is Bush's job security. As bad as the Democrats loath Bush they can't stand the thought of a President Cheney.

Frankly, I'm surprised. I thought the story would have legs and get much more attention. After all the debate in Congress over the need for the President to keep them in the loop he simply signs away one of the key provisions of the revised act.

For 50 years, the Republicans have been accusing the Democrats of being soft on national security.

After the Democrats' obstructionist approach to Social Security reform, it is more difficult for them to claim the mantle of fiscal responsibility.

Iraq looks messier and messier. Gasoline prices have soared. The president's controversial plans for overhauling Social Security give Democrats a big cudgel to hammer Republicans among seniors.

The failure of Democrats to articulate a compelling message and policy position on national security issues spelled doom for our party during the last election cycle,