[Cicero]

There's some remarkable spinning in this article, including the presumption that mean, partisan Republicans are responsible for calling public attention to this alleged scandal. And note this little zinger: "Simon's recent gaffes on such issues as whether he paid state taxes," which puts a negative spin on Simon's legitimate refusal to release his tax returns.

There's every sign that the SF Chronicle has pulled up its socks here and is trying for damage control. But it isn't going to be easy. The energy crisis did permanent damage to Davis; the budget crunch is doing permanent damage; and this scandal is going to do permanent damage.

The press will pull out all stops to smear Simon and rescue Davis, but they will have their work cut out for them, especially if Bush continues to be seen to back Simon.

[BlackElk]

Apparently even Davis's staff members have not the nerve to claim that they paid off Oracle $95 million in taxpayers' money to get a mere $25,000 campaign contribution in a desperate last ditch attempt to stave off the forces of misogyny and save the most important constitutional right of all: THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE TO KILL BABIES!!!

By the way, show me a politician who takes a mere $25,000 campaign contribution in exchange for $95 million in taxpayers' money and I think I can show you:

1. A politician selling himself very cheap at a fire sale;

2. A governor whose state probably has a wee budget problem since he probably can neither add nor subtract.