March
24 Writing Off Clinton

Updated

That, and other news, in today's Political Panorama.

Before New Hampshire, many wondered how the Clinton campaign could survive. Then she won. Before Super Tuesday, it looked doubtful she could survive an Obama surge. Then she won California, Massachusetts and New Jersey. Before Texas and Ohio, there were even calls for her to drop out of the race. Then she won those states. Last week brought a series of stories that outlined just how slim her chances are of capturing the nomination.  Are these just the ingredients for another Clinton comeback?

The Atlantic's Marc Ambinder has a nice commentary on the latest speculation, concluding that the media's influence  is overstated (either way you look at it) and warning that  "it is not clear what the reality is."  Moreover, the race is now stuck in time --- with the new contest on April 22 --- and that certainly makes things ripe for plenty of wild musings.

McCain on Letterman: He pays a visit to "Late Show with David Letterman" on April 1, his 12th appearance and first since securing the GOP nomination.

What About Iraq: Coverage of the war in Iraq plummets, according to a recent study. From the New York Times: "Experts offer many other explanations for the declining media focus, like the danger and expense in covering Iraq, and shrinking newsroom budgets. In the last year, a flagging economy and the most competitive presidential campaign in memory have diverted attention and resources."

Obama Speech: Tina Daunt of the Los Angeles Times reports that some of Barack Obama's supporters went from "despair to delight" in the past week, worried about the Wright comments then relieved once the candidate delivered his speech on race.

Fred's Comeback: Former presidential candidate Fred Thompson signs with a new agent, signaling a return to acting.

"Fox & Friends" Fight: "Fox & Friends" Steve Doocy and Gretchen Carlson get taken to task by Fox anchor Chris Wallace for over-the-top Obama bashing.

"Hillary" No Go: The Supreme Court turns down a conservative group's appeal to promote an anti-Hillary documentary outside of campaign finance laws.

Celebs Weighed: The Politico's Jeffrey Ressner writes about a recent panel on the merits of Hollywood-ites on the campaign trail. One of the bigger perils: Celebrities bringing their own causes to campaign events.