He is not sensitive to political demands but he is to social ones. It is populist rather than democratic.

Despite its discontent, the West won't toughen its attitude to Russia. It will likely apply behind-the-scenes pressure and the tactics of acting on the basis of reciprocity.

Russia is actively using gas diplomacy for its expansion over the ex-Soviet space in a bid to become a regional superpower.

I still get that. I tell them they are the ones with the accent, not me.

With a library you are free, not confined by temporary political climates. It is the most democratic of institutions because no one - but no one at all - can tell you what to read and when and how.

I saw America's economy last night, people raiding dumpsters at a higher rate than normal in my home town. Digging through garbage shouldn't be a career. Thanks Democrats. Thanks Republicans.