Today’s installment of campaign-related news items that wouldn’t generate a post of their own, but may be of interest to political observers:<\/p>\n
* The sixth debate<\/a> for Republican presidential candidates will kick off this afternoon at 4 pm eastern. The two-hour event will be aired live on CNBC, and will emphasize economic issues. It will be Fred Thompson’s first debate, which will likely make him the focus of the media’s attention. (The debate will be rebroadcast tonight at 9 pm eastern on MSNBC.)<\/p>\n * Speaking of Thompson, the actor-lobbyist-politician yesterday picked up the support of George “Macaca” Allen<\/a>, who will serve as a co-chairman of Thompson’s National Campaign Leadership Team. Former Sen. Howard Baker (R-Tenn.) will lead the team, and Vice President Dick Cheney’s daughter Liz, and former Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham will also serve as co-chairs.<\/p>\n * Much to John Edwards’ disappointment, the SEIU announced yesterday that it will not<\/a> issue a presidential endorsement this year, instead allowing local SEIU affiliates to decide on presidential primary endorsements on a state-by-state basis.<\/p>\n * Hillary Clinton raised a few eyebrows yesterday when she expressed disappointment with NAFTA<\/a>, saying it should be “adjusted.” She added that she prefers a “timeout” on new trade agreements.<\/p>\n