Thursday, February 7, 2008

Maps, Money, Momentum and McCain …

Today’s Buzz ...

from last night’s Anderson Cooper 360°:

Map Lessons: I wonder if John King got pointers from Tom Foreman not only about the overall value of using maps as visual aids, but how to navigate through them so seamlessly? Guess neither one needs to stop and ask for directions, right? Anyway ... John reviewed the delegates at stake in the upcoming primaries and caucuses for the Democrats – and how close the race still is, even after Super Tuesday.



Money, Money, Money: Candy Crowley had a report about the post-Super Tuesday financial status of the Democratic campaigns. Both are raising significant amounts in just the relatively few hours since Tuesday, but the Obama campaign remains better funded (at the moment) due to a $32 million dollar infusion of donations during January. It strikes me as odd that even with a ‘golden rolodex’ of contacts (as coined by Candy in her report), the Clinton camp had to temporarily ‘loan’ itself $5 million dollars, and has some top aides who are voluntarily working without pay – for now. Not a good sign in anticipation of a prolonged battle.



Gergen, Klein and Goff: Don’t these name combinations sound like law firms?? Anyway ... the panel discussion covered the subjects of which Democratic candidate can claim front runner (or underdog) status, who has the cash, what are core constituency characteristics for each, and what campaign strategies we may see unfold in the weeks ahead.



Speaking of “core constituencies”: Tom Foreman had a “voter breakdown” review – or “voter profiling”, if you will. It was interesting for those who don’t follow politics all that closely – but for those of us closer to the addict level, it was information we probably already knew or could have guessed with a fair amount of accuracy.



But it’s always great to see Tom ‘live’ – particularly in the NY studio. He also reported both news bulletin breaks last night as well.



Conservative backlash: Dana Bash had a report about the continuing conservative backlash against John McCain. Anderson then interviewed conservative talk radio show hosts Glenn Beck (also on CNN HLN) and Larry Elder. Strangely enough, I sort of understand Glenn’s highly convoluted reasoning for voting for Hillary, although obviously Larry Elder’s reasoning of focusing on common ground with McCain makes more sense and is probably what will come to pass with conservative Republicans.




Killer tornadoes: I’m not sure why this wasn’t the first or second story covered tonight – storm fatigue, perhaps? But the pictures of the damage and devastation are heart-wrenching. David Mattingly was in the hard-hit town of Lafayette, TN for a report.






Out of Control: It’s difficult to feel sorry for Britney Spears. I do, if only because she clearly has mental problems that beg for treatment. She has more than enough money to receive the care she so desperately needs. But no amount of money can serve as the catalyst to the first step – admitting the problem(s) and accepting the need for treatment. She is on an accelerated collision course with her untimely demise – and I fear that innocent bystanders may end up being dragged into her same fate.

Dr. Drew sounded very concerned - and rightly so - just as he was in his 360° blog entry. Not sure why Anderson didn't ask him to comment on the Heath Ledger toxicology report - maybe lack of time?



Shot of the day: Thank God that this baby survived being dropped from the 4th floor of a burning apartment building!



Other News and Notes:

Romney suspends campaign: Mitt Romney made the announcement this morning during his speech at the CPAC meeting.



Senator “Maverick”: I keep forgetting to regularly check out the cartoon ‘stylings’ of Bill Mitchell on CNN’s Political Ticker, but when I do remember, I’ll gladly share!



Bill Maher at LMU: Bill spoke to about 700 attendees last night during his appearance at Loyola Marymount University; they are conducting their sixth annual First Amendment Week celebration. You can read about it here.



tonight on Anderson Cooper 360°:



Thanks for visiting - updates posted as needed - have a terrific evening!

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