The jobless rate falls slightly. What does it mean? I haven't a clue. All I know is that if fuel and food prices continue to rise, it can't be good news for the rest of the economy. Meanwhile, those rising fuel prices are finally having an effect on the types of cars that people are buying, as this article in The New York Times points out. I've been wondering at what price we would start to see an impact on the composition of the automobile fleet in this country, as well as driving habits.

Republicans in Massachusetts continue to lose ground. It's a one party state, and will remain so for the foreseeable future.

Al Franken finds himself in a tough spot in his Senate campaign, primarily due to the dogged reporting of a Republican blogger. This may be the future of media in this country, as newspapers decline, someone else will pick up the slack.

Here is what Obama wishes he could say about the Clintons.

Susan Estrich says the Wright controversy is all about Obama's judgment and character.

Charles Krauthammer slams Obama's race speech, in light of his new stance toward Wright.

Robert Kagan sees ideology's rude return with the rise of autocratic Russia and China.