Today’s edition of quick hits.
* It’s hard to believe House Homeland Security Chairman Peter King (R-N.Y.) would seriously tell a group of voters that “the situation [in Iraq] is more stable than you think,” and that being in Baghdad is “like being in Manhattan,” but it’s true. I’ve seen the video.
* With his chances at re-election dimming, Sen. Rick Santorum (R-Pa.) is getting increasingly odd. Yesterday, he told the editorial board of the Bucks County Courier Times that the war in Iraq is similar to Lord of the Rings. Worse, Santorum said we haven’t been attacked since 9/11 because the “Eye of Mordor” has been focused on Iraq. No, I don’t know what that means, either.
* Heard the rumors about another House Republican with a page problem? The rumors are apparently referring to Rep. Jim Kolbe (R-Ariz.).
* White House Press Secretary Tony Snow said there would be no signing statement to go along with the torture bill because Congress “did a really good job this time.” Great, the one time Bush is happy is the one time he gets the authority to decide what torture is. Marty Lederman had an excellent post on the subject.
* Once again, support for the war has reached yet another all-time low.
* It’s one thing for Rep. Curt Weldon (R-Pa.) to be a crook. But does he need to be a paranoid crook?
* What is it with Republicans worrying so much about liberal bumper-stickers? (thanks to SKNM for the tip)
* I’m pleased to report violent video games can, once again, be purchased in Oklahoma.
* It’s true, James Madison, were he alive today, would not be at all fond of the tax breaks and government funding that goes to “faith-based” charities.
* Speaking of Weldon, to equate his pending corruption charges with Harry Reid’s non-scandal is truly ridiculous, even by the standards of the broadcast news media.
* Kevin is sick of the phrase, “full disclosure.” I’m sick of the phrase, “October surprise.”
* National Character Counts Week? Seriously?
* I’ve heard of fantasy football; I know a lot of people who play fantasy baseball; but “Fantasy Congress” is a new one for me.
If none of these particular items are of interest, consider this an end-of-the-day open thread.