The Blog @ Spolitics

How to Fumble a Political Football

“Dollar” Bill Jefferson handed off a freezer’s worth of scandal to the Republicans. But did they think endzone? They could have stressed concern over the FBI’s search of Jefferson’s office while still keeping the focus on his corruption. It was a great chance to be both bipartisan and effective, blocking the Democratic attempt to paint them as the only crooks in town. Instead they dropped the ball and rushed to Jefferson’s defense. Smart move guys. It’s forth and long and looking like you’re going to have to punt this November.

Meanwhile, quarterback for the Dems, Nancy Pelosi, came a nose short of the goal line as well. After taking this long, her audible for Jefferson to resign his post on the House Ways & Means Committee looked more like a play designed to preserve the Dems “Culture of Corruption” campaign than genuine concern for the law.   

The Republicans may be punting, but the Dems don’t have anyone back there to receive. Meanwhile, much of the crowd is leaving this game in the third quarter.