[His speech amounts to a painful poke in the eye for Democrats, according to Greenfield.] Oh, it's a real poke, ... It's a way of embodying the idea that Republicans have done better than the Democrats, because even prominent members of their own party are supporting the other side.

I really have never heard an acceptance speech where 20 years of a guy's life in the U.S. Senate is kissed off in three sentences.

The President's speech was a good signal.

Somebody is going to have to do fancy footwork to make sure Elizabeth and John Edwards get their prime-time shot .

Something about her eyes or voice has always suggested the hint of a free spirit, trapped in a Peck and Peck cage, dreaming of making rude noises at public gatherings of Republicans.

For millions, Roger Ebert will be remembered as a writer and television personality who brought a sense of passion and excellence to his craft. For me, he is a man who fused joy and courage as few others ever have. My life was enriched by having such a friend; it is poorer for losing such a friend.