October 2008

Scare-o-ween-apalooza! Andrew O'Hehir
Sarah not scary enough? Here are the most terrifying movies of all time, from the totally obvious to the obscure and obnoxious. (10/31/2008)

"Zack and Miri Make a Porno" By Stephanie Zacharek
There's no shortage of crude humor and nudity here, but Kevin Smith's freewheeling comedy is more concerned with romance than sex. (10/31/2008)

Postcard from Pennsylvania: Joe Biden in Palin country
Both V.P. candidates held rallies in Williamsport, Pa. Palin filled a baseball stadium while the candidate most likely to win barely filled a gymnasium. (10/31/2008)

Bateman: Palin 2012?
She won't go down with this ship (11/01/2008)

WayLay By Carol Lay
Jill returns from the afterlife but isn't ready to tell all. (10/31/2008)

Growth hormones for kids By Rahul K. Parikh, M.D.
Normal boys and girls are taking growth hormones for being short. That's a bad prescription. (10/31/2008)

What not to wear (on Halloween) By Sarah Hepola
Slutty Sarah Palins, men dressed as Sarah Palin -- the potential for tasteless costumes this Halloween is truly terrifying. (10/31/2008)

My husband and I live four blocks apart By Cary Tennis
I find our arrangement quite suitable, but his two teenage sons are being very rude about it. (10/31/2008)

A big gay Mormon wedding By Jeanne Carstensen
The Church of Latter-day Saints has pumped millions into Proposition 8 to ban gay marriage. But for one devout family, the politics are personal. (10/31/2008)

Girl crush: Campbell Brown Kate Harding
Campbell Brown skewers Elizabeth Dole for calling her opponent "godless," and we swoon. (10/31/2008)

Prostitutes before pimps Tracy Clark-Flory
Would a San Francisco measure help sex workers or empower traffickers and pimps? (10/31/2008)

Witchy women and saucy seamstresses Kate Harding
Women and girls in the Halloween news. (10/31/2008)

For the love of Condi Judy Berman
In a new "musical docu-tragi-comedy," the guy who played Buzz in "Home Alone" attempts to woo our secretary of state. (10/31/2008)

Sarah Palin: "The time for choosin's comin' real soon" By Rebecca Traister
The Republican base greets its true leader in small-town Pennsylvania. And hits me with a car. (10/31/2008)

How Obama might just win Ohio By Walter Shapiro
In the state that broke Democratic hearts in 2004, favorable poll numbers and a wave of early voters could point to victory. (10/31/2008)

Someone should tell ABC News what "exclusive" means Glenn Greenwald
Establishment media outlets frequently copy from blogs and other alternative sources and claim credit for the story. (10/31/2008)

Defeating McCain: Ending not only neocon policies, but also tactics Glenn Greenwald
The blatant exploitation of anti-Semitism accusations by the McCain campaign is par for the neocon course, and reason enough to favor his defeat. (10/31/2008)

Is Barack Obama a socialist? By Michael Lind
If he is, then so is John McCain. But the charge is just a racial dog whistle anyway. Can you say "welfare queen"? (11/01/2008)

Steven Pearlstein and the strange pro-bailout justifications Glenn Greenwald
As Wall Street hordes its bailout cash rather than using it to unfreeze credit markets, bailout proponents twist themselves into knots to justify their conduct. (10/31/2008)

Sarah Palin speaks on the First Amendment Glenn Greenwald
John McCain's running mate thinks that the Constitution protects political candidates from being criticized by the press. (10/31/2008)

Will the Washington Redskins predict the election? Vincent Rossmeier
Since 1936, the result of the team's final home game before the election has forecast the winner accurately in every presidential race but one. (10/31/2008)

Georgia Republican tells supporters: "The other folks are voting" Alex Koppelman
Sen. Saxby Chambliss is out on the trail in a reelection campaign that's tightened up because of high African-American turnout. (10/31/2008)

Palin doesn't understand First Amendment Alex Koppelman
In an interview, Sarah Palin suggests her free speech rights are threatened when reporters criticize her. (10/31/2008)

October surprise: Who's Obama's real father? Alex Koppelman
As Election Day approaches, paranoid theories about Barack Obama are getting even weirder -- now, one well-known blog is suggesting that he's the son of Malcolm X. (10/31/2008)

McCain on the defensive in Arizona Gabriel Winant
Obama pulls within a point of McCain in new Arizona poll, and goes on the air in the Republican's home state. (10/31/2008)

Plouffe sounds confident Thomas Schaller
With four days to go, the Obama campaign manager discusses strategy and early vote returns. (10/31/2008)

Former Reagan chief of staff endorses Obama Alex Koppelman
Kenneth Duberstein says he'll vote for Barack Obama, and adds, of Palin V.P. choice, "even at McDonald's you get interviewed three times." (10/31/2008)

Who's ready for the Palin polka? Vincent Rossmeier
Have election fever? Clearly, the only prescription is more accordion. (10/31/2008)

Big names hit the trail Andrew Burmon
With Election Day fast approaching, prominent surrogates are out drumming up support -- we review where they've been and where they're going. (10/31/2008)

Cleveland without rival in futility King Kaufman
Buffalo and San Diego haven't crowned a champ in a while either, but they've had fewer teams. (10/31/2008)

NFL Week 9: Scary Halloween picks King Kaufman
Boo! There won't be any spooky clichés in this rundown of the week's games. (10/31/2008)

Silicon Valley leaders back No on Proposition 8 campaign Cyrus Farivar
Measure would overturn gay marriage in the Golden State. (10/31/2008)

Greenspan, Einstein, and peer review Andrew Leonard
Could the Maestro's pronouncements on deregulation have benefited from a more scientific approach? (10/31/2008)

The big Ford truck: Back from the dead Andrew Leonard
Don't call it a comeback: As gas prices fall, F-150 sales may be poised for a rebound. That was quick! (10/31/2008)

Ask the pilot By Patrick Smith
We're about to elect a new president. Will he have the will to take on the serious issues affecting air travel? (10/31/2008)

A McCain economic advisor goes way off-message Andrew Leonard
Martin Feldstein says it's time for the government to start spending like mad. So maybe Mr. "Spending Freeze" is the wrong guy for the job? (10/31/2008)

London to get high-tech trash bins next year Cyrus Farivar
Media Metrica plans to bring them to New York, Dubai. (10/31/2008)

An economic incentive to vote Andrew Leonard
A case study in trying too hard: Three economists argue that voting is an act of charity (10/31/2008)

The youth vote in Berkeley, California Andrew Leonard
A real stunner: Barack Obama out-polls Alan Keyes by more than a thousand votes. (10/31/2008)

Paying for abstinence
A contest offers cash to engaged couples who avoid having premarital sex. (10/30/2008)

Obama's infomercial night By Heather Havrilesky
Obama controls the vertical and the horizontal: From his 30-minute infomercial to his appearance on "The Daily Show," Obama took over the small screen on Wednesday to spread his message. (10/30/2008)

"Death With Interruptions" By Laura Miller
When the grim reaper takes time off, morticians reel and chaos ensues in Jose Saramago's funny, ravishing "Death With Interruptions." (10/30/2008)

Tom the Dancing Bug By Ruben Bolling
Turns out the founder of capitalism was a dirty, stinking commie! (10/30/2008)

Attractive men scare me, so I only date ugly ones By Cary Tennis
I would like to have sex with an attractive man -- but I babble like a moron at first sight! (10/30/2008)

Murder suspect or sex symbol? Tracy Clark-Flory
The media has eagerly turned Amanda Knox, accused of killing her female roommate during sex, into a femme fatale. (10/30/2008)

Ladies of the nightly news By Rebecca Traister
How the most electrifying campaign of our time changed everything for Katie Couric, Campbell Brown and Rachel Maddow. (10/30/2008)

Chas(te)ing cash Tracy Clark-Flory
Couples are offered $10K to abstain from sex. One problem: There are no takers. (10/30/2008)

"I can bring home the bacon, fry it up in a pan" Sarah Hepola
Children of the '70s and '80s, these flashbacks are dedicated to you: Enjoli perfume and Jean Nate bath splash. Oh, the horror, the horror. (10/30/2008)

How the "pregnancy pact" was sold Amy Benfer
The Gloucester teen who got $200 for pain, suffering and international infamy. (10/30/2008)

Black voters may lead Democratic wave By Alex Koppelman
An Obama-propelled increase in African-American turnout, already apparent in early voting, may put more Democrats in Congress. (10/30/2008)

Watching for a Republican rout By Mike Madden
Democrats are poised for another wave of victories in Congress. A guide to the key races, and GOP lawmakers on the run. (10/30/2008)

Proposition 8 vs. black homophobia By LaDoris Cordell
An African-American lesbian explains why she's hopeful that an "Obama Effect" won't kill gay marriage in California. (10/30/2008)

Various items Glenn Greenwald
Karl Rove's self-protective amnesia. A personal appeal against Proposition 8. The latest McCarthyite tactic from John McCain and National Review. (10/30/2008)

Why Obama may triumph in working-class Pennsylvania By Robert S. Eshelman
Returning to my home in Bucks County, I saw how the utter bankruptcy of the Bush years has transformed the region's political landscape. (10/30/2008)

When filth is not enough Joan Walsh
Tom DeLay slimed Obama as a "radical Marxist," but Obama's sweet TV ad, feisty Bill Clinton rally and jokes with Jon Stewart made DeLay look stupid. (10/30/2008)

A new weapon in the war for yard sign supremacy Andrew Burmon
One McCain supporter had a novel idea for how to prevent the traditional theft of campaign signs -- he electrified his. (10/31/2008)

Columnist: If you vote for Obama, you're going to hell Gabriel Winant
WorldNetDaily's Janet Porter says real Christians can't choose the Democratic ticket, and that God will punish those who do. (10/30/2008)

Are young voters flaking out again? Gabriel Winant
Early voting turnout numbers suggest the youth aren't measuring up. (10/30/2008)

Are the polls tightening? Vincent Rossmeier
Some polls show McCain cutting into Obama's lead. Others don't. What to believe? (10/31/2008)

Obama: "The whole socialism argument, that doesn't fly" Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama joked around with Jon Stewart about the attacks against him, the Bradley effect and Florida voters, but they got to some serious subjects too. (10/30/2008)

Al Gore, back in Florida Alex Koppelman
Both Gores will be working to turn out voters for Barack Obama in the state that cost the former vice president his shot at the White House. (10/30/2008)

Will Dems get to 60 seats in the Senate? Alex Koppelman
It still looks unlikely, but Democrats could lock up a filibuster-proof majority if a few things go their way. (10/30/2008)

Obama's closing argument Alex Koppelman
The Obama camp releases two new ads, one positive and one in which they go negative on John McCain. (10/30/2008)

McCain spokesman Goldfarb embarrassed on CNN Alex Koppelman
The McCain campaign's blogger, challenged to provide evidence for his claim that Barack Obama is friendly with anti-Semites, had to stay silent. (10/30/2008)

Malkin: Win or lose, Obama supporters will riot Vincent Rossmeier
Displaying her usual subtlety, nuance and understanding, conservative blogger Michelle Malkin says rioting after the Phillies' World Series win is a forecast of what's to come. (10/30/2008)

Ashley Todd agrees to deal Alex Koppelman
The McCain campaign volunteer had already confessed to making up a story about having a "B" carved in her face by an Obama-supporting mugger. (10/30/2008)

Delayed GratiPhication King Kaufman
The Phillies had to wait around for two days, but they finally get their championship in a one-of-a-kind game. (10/30/2008)

Acid rain loves a good recession Andrew Leonard
In China, cleaning up coal-fired power plants suddenly isn't such a great business (10/30/2008)

The socialist Economist endorses Obama Andrew Leonard
Since 1843, the magazine has supported free markets. Wha' happened? (10/30/2008)

WePC.com to crowdsource laptop design Cyrus Farivar
But will any of these computers actually come to market? (10/30/2008)

The Exxon recession Andrew Leonard
The economy contracts, but Exxon-Mobil boasts record profits. Where's a socialist redistributionist when you need one? (10/30/2008)

Microsoft to move Office apps to "the cloud" Cyrus Farivar
And why I won't be using them. (10/30/2008)

Did Porsche blitzkrieg the hedge funds? Andrew Leonard
Volkswagen short-sellers took a bath this week. Traders are blaming the German government for foul play (10/30/2008)

Bateman: Christopher Hitchens on Sarah Palin and the fruit fly
"She thinks genetics is a joke ... she advocates the deliberate, planned, state-financed stultification of American children." (10/29/2008)

Dreams of John Adams By Kevin Berger
Saturn rockets, Wagner in the Sierras, 9/11 voices -- the renowned composer discusses the visions and emotions behind his acclaimed and controversial music. (10/29/2008)

"Doctor Atomic" and Mr. Adams
Inside the music and life of renowned American composer John Adams. (10/29/2008)

Black gay men are the new, um, black Andrew O'Hehir
You just knew that the "Noah's Arc" movie was going to be huge. Right? Also, "Synecdoche" opens strong and "Rachel" hums along, in a week tinged with sadness. (10/29/2008)

The K Chronicles By Keith Knight
Did you just say "gaybies"? (10/29/2008)

Hot for the "First Dude" Judy Berman
Why are some women proclaiming their love for Todd Palin? (10/29/2008)

Yes, she can Lynn Harris
The daughter of a slave votes for Barack Obama. (10/29/2008)

"Let's face it. Women looooove abortions" Lynn Harris
On "The Daily Show," Samantha Bee manhandles McCain's infamous women's "health" air quotes. (10/29/2008)

I'm a restless European -- should I come to America? By Cary Tennis
I'm full of ideas, and my company headquarters is there. (10/29/2008)

Hockey moms for Obama Abby Margulies
A new video spoof adds a twist to an "Evita" classic: "Don't speak for me, Sarah Palin; the truth is I do not like you." (10/29/2008)

Sarah Palin to Tina Fey: Need Bristol to baby-sit? Katharine Mieszkowski
What really happened backstage on "SNL." (10/29/2008)

What to do with your money now By Sarah Hepola
In the first installment of a new series, "Talk to Me Like I'm 5," expert Ilyce Glink explains what all Americans should be doing with their finances. (10/29/2008)

How John McCain ran against himself By Walter Shapiro
The maverick of days past might be deadlocked with Obama now if he hadn't let the Republican right hijack the Straight Talk Express. (10/29/2008)

How Dirksen lobbied on behalf of Jack McCain By Tom Brune
A series of documents show the influential Illinois senator pushing LBJ hard for a promotion for John McCain's father, Adm. John "Jack" McCain Jr. (10/29/2008)

"Is McCain a competent fellow?" By Tom Brune
When President Johnson asked that question about John McCain's father, Adm. Jack McCain, the answer he got was not flattering. But McCain got a promotion from LBJ anyway. (10/29/2008)

Will Mr. Burly vote for Obama? By Garrison Keillor
The thought of replacing the Current Occupant with the Angry Old Man of the Desert and Whoopee the Ice Queen is miserable in the extreme. (10/29/2008)

Dick Morris: Obama might still have a small chance to win Glenn Greenwald
The Fox News genius bravely warns that it is too early to "write Obama off." (10/29/2008)

Veepzilla! Joan Walsh
Ignore the GOP blame game: The only one responsible for John McCain's Palin problems is McCain. (10/30/2008)

Maeve Reston's unintentional exposure of campaign reporters Glenn Greenwald
The Los Angeles Times reporter wistfully laments the loss of "intimacy" between McCain and his press corps, and blames herself for the loss. (10/29/2008)

Quote of the day Vincent Rossmeier
Barack Obama, kindergarten communist? (10/29/2008)

Stop the election, I want to get off Alex Koppelman
Campaign silliness reaches a new height with report that Joe the Plumber might release a country music album. (10/29/2008)

New McCain ad hits Obama TV special Alex Koppelman
The Republican nominee's latest spot repeats familiar themes, this time pegged to Wednesday night's 30-minute Obama infomercial. (10/29/2008)

Obama ad goes after McCain on economy, Palin Alex Koppelman
The spot portrays John McCain as inexperienced in and ignorant of economic issues, and says he'd need to rely on his vice president. (10/29/2008)

Is Arizona the newest battleground state? Alex Koppelman
Recent polling suggests John McCain shouldn't take his home state's Electoral College votes for granted. (10/29/2008)

Obama introduces himself one last time Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama's 30-minute long ad wasn't thrilling stuff, but it may have achieved the Obama camp's goals anyway. (10/30/2008)

Report: Dems planning to take away Lieberman's committee Alex Koppelman
Senate Democrats are considering committee chairmanships for the next Congress, and Joe Lieberman may lose his. (10/29/2008)

76 American Nobel Prize winners endorse Obama Katharine Mieszkowski
In a letter announcing the decision, the Nobel laureates, all scientists, also blasted the Bush administration. (10/29/2008)

What does Palin's future hold? Vincent Rossmeier
It's not Election Day yet, but discussions about where the Republican Party goes from here have already been planned; Sarah Palin looms large. (10/29/2008)

Obama hanged in effigy at U. of Kentucky Gabriel Winant
This marks the second effigy of Barack Obama at a college campus in recent weeks; Sarah Palin, too, has been a target. (10/29/2008)

NBA 2008-09: Houston over Detroit King Kaufman
If Yao, McGrady and Artest stay healthy and sane -- three big ifs -- look out for the Rockets. (10/29/2008)

World Series pronounced dead! King Kaufman
Blame it on the rain. Or the mud or the suspended game. Or the late starts. Or cranky writers and an unscheduled off day. (10/29/2008)

Election 2008: An online resource guide Cyrus Farivar
How the Internet can help you vote with wikis, Twitter, YouTube and plain-vanilla Web sites. (10/29/2008)

Chinese advice for the next U.S. president Andrew Leonard
China wants to be more involved in running the global economy. But the U.S. just wants China to consume more. (10/29/2008)

Global initiative promises to harmonize ICT and human rights Cyrus Farivar
But how much leverage will the GNI actually have? (10/29/2008)

Sarah Palin's silly energy speech Andrew Leonard
Neither Alaska, nor its governor, has the answer to America's energy problems (10/29/2008)

Investor euphoria amid a global recession Andrew Leonard
What's wrong with this picture? Stocks go up while the global economy goes down, down, down (10/29/2008)

Easy money days are here again Andrew Leonard
Ready for the next bubble? The Fed cuts interest rates all the way down to 1 percent. (10/29/2008)

Red State Update: Is Sarah Palin a diva or just a maverick?
She stuck it to big oil, she stuck it to her own party in Alaska, and now she's gonna stick it to McCain. (10/28/2008)

Bateman: John McCain on the state of the race
Remember when we thought McCain told the truth and had honor and dignity and stuff? It seems so long ago now, like a dream ... (10/28/2008)

Payback's a bitch By Louis Bayard
Margaret Atwood talks about the perils of debt -- and imagines a utopian future without greed. (10/28/2008)

This Modern World By Tom Tomorrow
Once again, it's time to ask: Are you a real American? (10/28/2008)

I'm a gay married Mormon in the closet By Cary Tennis
My wife and I thought we could make it work but we're desperately unhappy. (10/28/2008)

Diploma with a side of fries Amy Benfer
Should students in the bottom 50 percent of their class even bother going to college? (10/28/2008)

Equal-opportunity adultery Amy Benfer
When it comes to lying, cheating and whoring around, women are closing the gap. (10/28/2008)

If Beyoncé were a boy ... Tracy Clark-Flory
She'd be a total douche bag, judging by her new music video. (10/28/2008)

What Barack Obama needs to do to close the deal By Thomas Schaller
Three Democratic operatives offer advice for how the candidate should spend the final week. (10/28/2008)

Sarah Palin, still rockin' the right By Mike Madden
In newly swinging Virginia, the GOP base showed love for their "true conservative" -- who may be eyeing the White House beyond McCain. (10/28/2008)

What Obama really said in 2001 Joan Walsh
McCain shamelessly distorted a radio interview about the best way to deal with the legacy of slavery. (10/28/2008)

Seven-year-olds sing against same-sex marriage Glenn Greenwald
A Christian ministry in California produces an incomparably creepy ad in support of Proposition 8. (10/28/2008)

Say it ain't so, John! Joan Walsh
Your awful campaign is making me feel sorry for Sarah Palin. (10/28/2008)

The Republican shipwreck By Gary Kamiya
The mighty right-wing Titanic is sinking, and McCain is desperately blaming Bush. But the problem isn't the captain -- it's the ship. (10/28/2008)

E-mails to Jews link Obama, Third Reich Thomas Schaller
E-mail campaign continues the nastiest of nasty electoral tactics. (10/28/2008)

Lowry: McCain's campaign failure Thomas Schaller
The National Review columnist explains the paradox that doomed the Maverick's campaign. (10/28/2008)

Michelle Obama, a new force in politics Thomas Schaller
With so much focus on her husband, Michelle Obama's emergence has gone unnoticed. (10/28/2008)

Montana in play Thomas Schaller
Democratic governor, new Democratic senator ... and 3 new Democratic electors? (10/28/2008)

Obama's lead widens in Pew Thomas Schaller
The poll shows McCain's support tanking, early voters favoring Obama. (10/28/2008)

Obama and the Hispanic vote Thomas Schaller
If Obama can keep support at 65 percent or above, McCain is likely sunk. (10/28/2008)

Florida governor extends early-voting hours Gabriel Winant
"He just blew Florida for John McCain," a Florida Republican says of the decision made by Charlie Crist, a fellow Republican. (10/28/2008)

Pat Buchanan yells boo! Thomas Schaller
The conservative commentator tries to scare people with predictions about Obamaland. (10/28/2008)

Fawning over Palin Thomas Schaller
Jane Mayer's devastating piece on Palin's courting of the court of conservatism. (10/28/2008)

Palin didn't have to run Thomas Schaller
She can finger-point all she wants, but the blame rests ultimately with her. (10/28/2008)

Let it snow King Kaufman
Rain suspends Game 5, which the Rays and Phillies will try to finish Tuesday. That's one off day down, 156 to go before Opening Day. (10/28/2008)

Winning their fair share King Kaufman
It feels like Phillies fans have had to wait forever for another title, but if life were fair, a Phils championship would be ahead of schedule. (10/28/2008)

The fair share chart King Kaufman
How many pennants and World Series titles would each team have won if success were distributed evenly? (10/28/2008)

Home price happy news Andrew Leonard
The speed at which housing values are dropping is slowing. Break out the champagne? (10/28/2008)

What YouTube tells us about our political conversation Cyrus Farivar
A new online analysis firm figures it out. (10/28/2008)

Why no bailout for the hungry? Andrew Leonard
Compared to the billions governments are handing to banks, the cost of ending starvation seems cheap (10/28/2008)

The Long Depression is hot, hot, hot! Andrew Leonard
The New York Times had the story. In 1911. Pay attention or you will get burned again (10/28/2008)

Christian Science Monitor moves almost entirely online Cyrus Farivar
Why won't other major papers do the same? (10/28/2008)

Bjork's sad credit crunch song Andrew Leonard
First Iceland's banks got zapped by the global financial crisis. Next up: Lava fields and hot springs? (10/28/2008)

Big Think: The political debate
Big Think surveys the political divide -- and wants to know what your plan is. (10/27/2008)

Finale wrap-up: "Mad Men" By Heather Havrilesky
In the second-season finale of "Mad Men," big bombs drop without making a sound. (10/27/2008)

The (undead) girl next door Andrew O'Hehir
Suburban realism gets an injection of fresh blood (ha!) in the gory, satirical and haunting Swedish vampire flick "Let the Right One In." (10/27/2008)

Bateman: Sarah Palin is still yapping about Bill Ayers
The V.P. candidate tries to define "domestic terrorist." (10/27/2008)

Sarah Palin's latest swat at science By Kevin Berger
Fruit fly research is helping a booming new food industry in America -- not that the vice-presidential candidate is aware of it. (10/27/2008)

Sarah Palin, ultimate reality TV star By James Hannaham
Overconfident, smug, convinced of her superiority -- the vice-presidential candidate doesn't belong in the White House; she belongs on basic cable. (10/27/2008)

Imaginary murder, imaginary news Kate Harding
"Two people who need to get out more waste police officers' time" isn't quite as catchy as "Emotionally unstable woman commits virtual murder!" (10/27/2008)

Cindy McCain: "Just like any other female human" Sarah Hepola
The Onion offers a bizarre and hilarious spoof on the potential first lady: "She loves her kids with both her hearts." (10/27/2008)

Should I break up with my best friend? We fight all the time By Cary Tennis
I'm trying to be kind but she pushes the limits! (10/27/2008)

Your daily Palin Kate Harding
Consignment shop owner speaks, Anchorage paper endorses Obama and more. (10/27/2008)

Palin is no Everywoman Tracy Clark-Flory
Say what you will about her, she's not an example of the average woman's political ascent. (10/27/2008)

Where the road ends for John McCain By Walter Shapiro
His Straight Talk Express bolted out of New Hampshire eight years ago. Now the candidate is running on empty. (10/27/2008)

Why Obama has to stay above 50 percent By Bill Greener
A GOP operative argues that in a race between a white and black candidate, "undecideds" vote white. Meaning, "undecideds" will break for McCain. (10/27/2008)

Salon Radio: ACLU on the U.S. Army's domestic deployment Glenn Greenwald
Why is a U.S. Army brigade being permanently assigned to the "Homeland," and should anyone care? (10/27/2008)

Ed Whelan's petulant, fact-free right-wing victimhood Glenn Greenwald
National Review claims that the Washington Post has concealed comments of Joe Biden that, in fact, it has quoted at least six times. (10/27/2008)

On Iraq, McCain doesn't have a clue By Joe Conason
Despite the impasse in U.S.-Iraq negotiations, he clings to his fantasy of "victory" and America's ability to set the terms for withdrawal. (10/27/2008)

Controversial Obama radio interview surfaces Thomas Schaller
A 2001 interview on Chicago's WBEZ is used to echo the "radical redistribution of wealth" meme. (10/27/2008)

Sacking Saxby: VoteVets goes on attack Thomas Schaller
The veterans group uses its visually powerful body armor ad to attack Chambliss. (10/27/2008)

Who spray-painted anti-McCain smears in Northern Virginia? Thomas Schaller
It's more likely an isolated act of deranged expression, like the Ashley Todd episode, than a GOP dirty trick. (10/27/2008)

McCain-Palin play "the cocky card" Thomas Schaller
Desperate, with time running out, McCain-Palin try to paint Obama as overconfident. (10/27/2008)

Another Republican backing Obama Thomas Schaller
Former South Dakota Sen. Larry Pressler jumps on the Obama bandwagon. (10/27/2008)

Obama live from Canton Thomas Schaller
Watch the candidate give his closing argument, on the campaign trail in Ohio. (10/27/2008)

Dangerous threesomes Thomas Schaller
John McCain depicts an Obama-Pelosi-Reid Washington as dangerous. (10/27/2008)

Palin 2012 begins Thomas Schaller
With McCain and Palin feuding, speculation about 2012 commences. (10/27/2008)

GOP group launches Rev. Wright ad Thomas Schaller
You just knew it was coming, and now here it is. (10/27/2008)

Sen. Ted Stevens guilty on all counts Alex Koppelman
The Alaska Republican is convicted on seven charges relating to gifts he received from an oil contractor. (10/27/2008)

"Dangerous threesomes": The finalists Thomas Schaller
Finalists of the "dangerous threesomes" contest for your consideration. (10/27/2008)

A skinhead plot to kill Obama? Alex Koppelman
The ATF arrests two men in an alleged plan to assassinate Barack Obama and 102 other African-Americans, but the allegations seem overblown. (10/27/2008)

Who's responsible for Palin's new wardrobe? Alex Koppelman
Conflicting stories and finger-pointing over the decision to buy new clothing for Sarah Palin and her family hint at tension inside the Republican Party. (10/28/2008)

The better team? King Kaufman
Hold off on that conclusion that the Phillies are better than the Rays just because they're winning the World Series. (10/27/2008)

Not the Rays' night King Kaufman
From a blown call in the first inning to pitcher Joe Blanton's home run in the fifth, everything went Philly's way in Game 4. (10/27/2008)

Early e-voting results in vote flipping in three states so far Cyrus Farivar
Voters in West Virginia, Tennessee and Texas all report problems with ES&S voting machines. (10/27/2008)

Lost decade, schmost decade Andrew Leonard
Japan gets the week started off with a bang. The Nikkei stock index falls to a 26-year low (10/27/2008)

The return of the Third World Andrew Leonard
Next up on the global economy catastrophe hit-list: Emerging economies. Let's be fair: They need a bailout, too (10/27/2008)

Germany refuses full-body scanners for its airports Cyrus Farivar
E.U. lawmakers vote to study the effects of the scanners on "health and privacy." (10/27/2008)

Another laugher from Arthur Laffer Andrew Leonard
The brain behind supply-side economics goofs again. (10/27/2008)

Consumers slowly switching from laptops to smart phones Cyrus Farivar
But where's the external keyboard for the iPhone? (10/27/2008)

Whatever happened to food versus fuel? Andrew Leonard
Commodity grain prices are collapsing. Perhaps biofuels were not the primary villain in the global food crisis? (10/27/2008)

I Like to Watch By Heather Havrilesky
Losers on the march! FX's new comedy "Testees" makes "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" look tasteful and restrained by comparison. (10/26/2008)

Opus By Berkeley Breathed
I'm the one who gets his dreams answered around here! (10/26/2008)

Saturday night limp? Sarah Hepola
Broadsheet writers discuss "SNL" comedian Maya Rudolph's return to the show as Michelle Obama. (10/26/2008)

McCain looks lost on "Meet the Press" Joan Walsh
The tired GOP nominee delivers an unimpressive performance as the campaign nears its end. (10/26/2008)

McCain says he's not losing Mike Madden
On "Meet the Press," John McCain argues with Tom Brokaw about polls, George Bush and Sarah Palin. (10/26/2008)

"Saturday Night Live" ignores McCain Mike Madden
The late-night comedy show has, apparently, decided there's only one candidate left making fun of any more. (10/26/2008)

Quote of the day Mike Madden
Steve Schmidt offers a prediction, in the form of a pep talk to McCain campaign staffers. (10/26/2008)

Is McCain even in trouble in... Arizona? Mike Madden
A new poll shows Barack Obama has cut way into John McCain's lead in his own state. (10/26/2008)

Critics' Picks
What you need to see, read, do this week: Madonna's sex-positive film, a book of wacky head shots, and the "Mad Men" season finale. (10/25/2008)

Is my relationship killing the planet? Tracy Clark-Flory
A Slate article argues for a "Date Local" movement. (10/25/2008)

Obama's big lead in the polls is real By Paul Maslin
Democrats are afraid to believe he's really winning. But a pollster explains why those polls that show a tight race should be treated with skepticism. (10/25/2008)

A tale of two faces Joan Walsh
Ashley Todd's self-mutilation and Sarah Palin's pricy makeup dominate the news as the campaign just keeps getting weirder. Plus: Hitchens calls McCain "borderline senile." (10/26/2008)

The Russia/Georgia conflict and the tactics of 2002 Glenn Greenwald
Reason's Cathy Young and other fanatical supporters of Georgia use character smears and "pro-Putin" insults to try to stifle debate. (10/25/2008)

Whasssuuuuuuuup Thomas Schaller
Those guys from the famous series of Budweiser commercials are back ... for Barack. (10/25/2008)

Obama defines the moment Thomas Schaller
With just over a week ago, Obama moves toward his closing message. (10/25/2008)

Charlie Cook: Obama Grand Slam Thomas Schaller
National Journal columnist says Obama, Democrats on cusp of majority victory. (10/25/2008)

Remembering Wellstone six years later Thomas Schaller
Rarely do people like him make it to the Senate. (10/25/2008)

Bateman: Barack Obama on the "real America"
With the challenges we face right now, we can't afford to divide this country ... hell, we can't even afford a thing of Twizzlers. (10/24/2008)

"Synecdoche, New York"
Andrew O'Hehir speaks with director Charlie Kaufman about his latest film, "Synecdoche, New York." (10/24/2008)

Who names a film "Synecdoche"? Andrew O'Hehir
Quasi-legendary screenwriter Charlie Kaufman discusses his surreal black-comic directing debut -- and why he's willing to tick people off with an unpronounceable title. (10/24/2008)

"Changeling" By Stephanie Zacharek
What has Clint Eastwood done with the real Angelina Jolie? That's the true mystery of this kidnapping movie. (10/24/2008)

"Synecdoche, New York" By Stephanie Zacharek
Charlie Kaufman's ambitious directing debut scratches at something deep and painful but ends up patting itself on the back. (10/24/2008)

"Pride and Glory" By Mary Elizabeth Williams
Men in blue in shades of gray -- this gritty movie rises above the standard corrupt-cop fare. (10/24/2008)

"High School Musical 3" By Stephanie Zacharek
Stop rolling your eyes -- the latest fluffy movie in Disney's powerhouse franchise is a total kick. (10/24/2008)

WayLay By Carol Lay
Jill has a slight change in outlook. (10/24/2008)

Should we be covering Palin's wardrobe? Sarah Hepola
Campbell Brown says no, but Salon writers debate the issue in light of news that the highest-paid individual in McCain's presidential campain is Palin's stylist. (10/24/2008)

Your daily Palin Kate Harding
"One part practiced folksy, one part sassy and a little dash of high school bitchy." (10/24/2008)

Should I leave my husband because he won't quit smoking? By Cary Tennis
I know it sounds crazy, but the smoking is making me insane; I figure maybe if I left he'd get the message. (10/24/2008)

Third year's the charm Sarah Hepola and Judy Berman
Broadsheet celebrates its third anniversary with a list of our all-time favorite posts. (10/24/2008)

Do women make better leaders? Kate Harding
Women aren't intrinsically superior leaders -- but if we had the chance, we might at least screw everything up differently. (10/24/2008)

Just shoot me! Amy Benfer
Arson, murder, suicide and other depressing reactions to the next Great Depression. (10/24/2008)

Your daily (Michelle) Obama Judy Berman
As the media obsesses over Sarah Palin's wardrobe, a July "Access Hollywood" interview about the Obama family's thrifty fashion choices resurfaces. (10/24/2008)

"There's an awful tough tightrope for Obama to walk" By Cordula Meyer
An interview with sociologist Michael Eric Dyson on Barack Obama, Martin Luther King and race relations in America. (10/24/2008)

Another election nightmare in Florida? By Mike Madden
The Obama campaign has inspired a wave of early voters -- but the waits have been long and some fear havoc on Election Day. (10/24/2008)

Salon Radio: Kenneth Katzman on attacking Iran Glenn Greenwald
An interview with one of the Beltway's leading Iran experts and advocates of an attack reveals the grotesque indifference and banality of evil of our foreign policy establishment. (10/24/2008)

Sarah Palin opposes McCain's spending freeze Glenn Greenwald
The Vice Presidential candidate calls for substantial spending increases for discretionary programs just two weeks after McCain called for an across-the-board spending freeze. (10/24/2008)

It's hard out there for a Republican House member Gabriel Winant
Bad tidings for the GOP: A leaked memo says 58 of the party's 202 seats are at risk on Election Day. (10/24/2008)

Quote of the day Alex Koppelman
James Carville sounds off on Joe the Plumber. (10/24/2008)

Ferrell-Fey '08 Alex Koppelman
Will Ferrell, returning to "Saturday Night Live" to play George W. Bush, tries to help us decide whom to vote for -- "the hot lady or the Tiger Woods guy." (10/24/2008)

Poll: Bachmann trails Democratic challenger Alex Koppelman
The Minnesota congresswoman got herself in trouble during an appearance on "Hardball," and now her reelection campaign is in peril. (10/24/2008)

Report: Todd changes her account of ATM attack Alex Koppelman
Police continue to question a McCain campaign volunteer who claimed a mugger carved a "B" into her face because of her politics. (10/24/2008)

Palin won't call abortion clinic bombers terrorists Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin has used the phrase "domestic terrorist" to refer to Bill Ayers, but won't apply the same terminology to those who target clinics. (10/24/2008)

Was McCain volunteer attacked over bumper sticker? Alex Koppelman
Ashley Todd says she was robbed, and that the assailant then became enraged over her McCain-Palin bumper sticker and scratched a "B" on her face. But there are some questions about her account. (10/24/2008)

Fake hate crimes: not just for liberals anymore Gabriel Winant
Ashley Todd's faked beating and mutilation by an Obama supporter recall the hate crime hoaxes that have so irked conservatives. (10/24/2008)

Report: Todd confesses to making up ATM attack Alex Koppelman
The McCain campaign volunteer who claimed a mugger carved a "B" in her face because of her political beliefs has reportedly recanted, and police say she'll be charged. (10/24/2008)

McCain camp: "He made us go negative" Mike Madden
A McCain campaign memo blames the contest's ugly tone on the lack of -- yes, you guessed it -- joint town halls. (10/24/2008)

Hate traffic? Joe McCain does too Vincent Rossmeier
John McCain's brother dials 911 to complain about being stuck in traffic. (10/24/2008)

Palin makeup artist McCain camp's highest paid Alex Koppelman
In the first half of October, the campaign paid a makeup artist who travels with Sarah Palin $22,800, more than any other single person on the payroll. (10/24/2008)

Rays tie up the World Series King Kaufman
Phenom David Price survives a home run by Phillie Eric! Bruntlett! to get the last seven outs and preserve the win. (10/24/2008)

Seen one country, seen 'em all King Kaufman
World Series notes: Fox can't tell Venezuela from Panama, Day 2. Plus: Philly's right-handed problem. (10/24/2008)

NFL Week 8 picks King Kaufman
American-football fans in London -- hi, Joe and Fred -- thrilled at Saints-Chargers game. Plus: That Bengals dream. And: Cowboys? Patriots? (10/24/2008)

"Extreme market stress": Dow drops 450 at open Andrew Leonard
Forget about that fancy-pants credit freeze. It's a good old real economy meltdown that has investors terrified now (10/24/2008)

FCC vote on "white spaces" to be delayed? Cyrus Farivar
Old media and new media are throwin' down. (10/24/2008)

How to fix the mortgage business Andrew Leonard
We don't need a revolution: Just a tweak here and there, and it will be as good as new (10/24/2008)

A glimmer of hope in home sales? Andrew Leonard
For the first time in three years, sales of existing homes rise year-over-year. But you still need a microscope to see signs of a recovery (10/24/2008)

When the online world affects the offline world Cyrus Farivar
Two cases this week in the U.K. and Japan show the insanity of cyberspace's impact on real life. (10/24/2008)

$700 billion: Blink, and it's gone Andrew Leonard
It's beginning to look like Hank Paulson didn't ask Congress for enough cash. (10/24/2008)

Ask the pilot By Patrick Smith
The American non-traveler: What's the price of staying put? Plus: When airline pilots have the opportunity to roam widely, but choose not to. (10/24/2008)

The Wasilla Project: Sarah Palin as the "first Christian mayor"
Locals speak about the effect of Palin's religious beliefs on her policies while she was mayor of Wasilla, Alaska. (10/23/2008)

Bateman: Who are the core Palin supporters?
Meet some scary people who don't get out much, and are easily frightened, from a small Ohio town. (10/23/2008)

Eat, for this is my body Andrew O'Hehir
In the amazing new film "Stranded," survivors of the legendary 1972 Andes plane crash talk about the moral and spiritual implications of eating their friends. (10/23/2008)

A new pro-life, pro-family pharmacy
Tracy Clark-Flory responds to news of a new anti-birth control pharmacy in Virginia. (10/23/2008)

Stephen King's God trip By John Marks
On the 30th anniversary of "The Stand," the novelist confesses what haunts him about religion and today's politics. (10/23/2008)

Tom the Dancing Bug By Ruben Bolling
Joe Six-Pack and Joe the Plumber talk taxes. (10/23/2008)

Who says Americans won't ride mass transit? By Katharine Mieszkowski
With gas prices through the roof, our car-crazy nation showed the love for buses and trains. But there's a glitch. (10/23/2008)

Putting out for Barack Judy Berman
A new poster claims, "Girls say yes to boys who say Obama." (10/23/2008)

He's ramping up the pressure but I don't want to commit By Cary Tennis
My relationships never last long and this one's no different. Should I just surrender and make it permanent? (10/23/2008)

Groper grabs a prison sentence in Cairo Tracy Clark-Flory
An Egyptian woman hops on the hood of her harasser's car, then drags him to the cops. (10/23/2008)

Tim Gunn: "Just vote no!" Judy Berman
In a new ad, the "Project Runway" fashion guru denounces California's Proposition 8. (10/23/2008)

Your daily Palin Abby Margulies
A roundup of media reactions to Sarah Palin's $150K wardrobe. (10/23/2008)

Pharmacy fills prescriptions of faith Tracy Clark-Flory
A new pro-life Virginia drugstore refuses to dispense birth control. (10/23/2008)

Tea with Barack Obama's sister By Stuart Coleman
Maya Soetoro-Ng on her "awesome" big brother, his early presidential leanings and their mother's legacy of hope. (10/23/2008)

Confessions of a former Guantánamo prosecutor By Stacy Sullivan
The inside story of a military lawyer who discovered stunning injustice at the heart of the Bush administration's military commissions. (10/23/2008)

The punditocracy's Seven Biggest Blunders of the 2008 election By Mike Madden and Walter Shapiro
Guess what? The Conventional Wisdom has blown it again in handicapping Obama vs. McCain in the homestretch. (10/23/2008)

Another myth fallen: Obama's "Jewish problem" Glenn Greenwald
All year long, GOP activists, neocons and pundits claimed Jews would vote in large numbers against Obama. From Gallup today: Jews favor Obama by a 3-1 margin. (10/23/2008)

Bipartisanship and threats of war toward Iran Glenn Greenwald
A new Washington Post Op-Ed from a typical Beltway "bipartisan" group demands that the new president prepare for an attack on Iran. (10/23/2008)

Gingrich: Palin could sue "SNL" for slander Alex Koppelman
The former House speaker could use a lesson in First Amendment law. (10/23/2008)

No love for "Joe the Reporter" from McCain crowd Mike Madden
McCain supporters tell the press what they think as they leave a "Joe the Plumber" rally in Florida. (10/23/2008)

Checking in with the Wasilla Project Caitlin Shamberg
A team of filmmakers visited Sarah Palin's hometown to learn about her leadership style from those who knew her as mayor. (10/23/2008)

President of GOP group resigns over racist image of Obama Alex Koppelman
Diane Fedele apologizes for including the image -- Barack Obama on a food stamp with fried chicken and watermelon -- in a newsletter, but defends the message. (10/23/2008)

Sarah Palin's polar bear pin Katharine Mieszkowski
What to wear when you're driving species to extinction. (10/23/2008)

Palin releasing medical records -- or not Vincent Rossmeier
Sarah Palin told NBC's Brian Williams she would make the records public, but the McCain campaign is now walking that promise back. (10/23/2008)

Chairwoman of N.M. GOP group calls Obama "a Muslim socialist" Alex Koppelman
Marcia Stirman is defending a letter to the editor she sent to a local paper in which she writes, among other things, "I believe Muslims are our enemies." (10/23/2008)

MoveOn says if McCain wins, it's my fault Alex Koppelman
The liberal advocacy group produces a customizable Web ad that allows people to encourage their friends to vote in a very personal way. (10/23/2008)

Latest polls point to Obama landslide Alex Koppelman
New data from several pollsters shows him up big in some surprising states -- but what do the numbers really mean? (10/23/2008)

Tim McCarver's flying start King Kaufman
In Game 1, the Fox analyst reassigns a catcher's nationality and ducks a good question. Plus: Arguments, logos. (10/23/2008)

Strategy matters, but not this time King Kaufman
The Phillies survive Charlie Manuel's bad move in the ninth to win Game 1 of the World Series -- but it won't always work out so well. (10/23/2008)

How you can conduct a voter-verifiable election online, right now Cyrus Farivar
Cryptographers around the world have come up with new theories about how to improve elections. (10/23/2008)

Gmail adds two new semi-ridiculous features Cyrus Farivar
Apparently the Gmail engineers have a little too much time on their hands. (10/23/2008)

Waxman: A mean man with the gavel Andrew Leonard
Republicans want a special prosecutor to investigate Fannie and Freddie. But the House Oversight chair just won't hear of it. (10/23/2008)

No more legroom for bankers Andrew Leonard
Tough times are forcing the former masters of the universe to fly coach. Will the degradation ever end? (10/23/2008)

A foodie dream come true Andrew Leonard
Do you like ethnic cuisine? A market research firm may have a job for you (10/23/2008)

Henry Waxman stays on the warpath Andrew Leonard
Lehman, AIG, and the credit ratings agencies got their day in the harsh Congressional sun. Next up: Federal regulators (10/23/2008)

Could Mitt have saved McCain's bacon? Andrew Leonard
Financial expertise is in short supply on the Republican ticket. But Romney's old company, Bain Capital, has its own problems (10/23/2008)

Why all of us need to be "search literate" Cyrus Farivar
Even the next president should know how to get beyond Google to evaluate information. (10/23/2008)

Alan Greenspan blames Wall Street Andrew Leonard
Who is responsible for the financial crisis? Hint: Not poor people (10/23/2008)

Bateman: Sarah Palin sure loves the "real" America
The V.P. candidate visits the hardworking, patriotic, pro-America areas of this great nation. (10/22/2008)

The Wasilla Project: Sarah Palin, fiscal conservative?
Many of Palin's decisions as mayor cost more than they were worth. A team of filmmakers went to Wasilla to learn more about how the V.P. candidate ran her office. (10/22/2008)

When campaign comes second
Rebecca Traister responds to news that Obama will suspend his campaigning to visit his ailing grandmother in Hawaii. (10/22/2008)

If McCain wins, should we all move to Scandinavia? By Louis Bayard
Imagine a land where presidents don't sprinkle holy water on wars, citizens have good healthcare and governments care about the environment. (10/22/2008)

The K Chronicles By Keith Knight
Stories from the campaign trail. (10/22/2008)

Barely Legal Castle Lynn Harris
Hasbro's latest for li'l virgins. (10/22/2008)

"Red, White and MILF" Tracy Clark-Flory
The director of OK Go's treadmill video takes on Sarah Palin. (10/22/2008)

Rrrowr! Lynn Harris
Quote of the morning: The real reasons Palin drives feminists crazy. (10/22/2008)

Should we worry about the fat vote? Vincent Rossmeier
New York Times blogger and evolutionary biologist Olivia Judson suggests a link between obesity and politics. (10/22/2008)

Sarah Palin, $150,000 fashionista Sarah Hepola
How much is too much to spend on a politician's wardrobe? Salon writers discuss the whopping price tag for the V.P. candidate's clothing. (10/22/2008)

Where the GOP could get dirty By Andrew Burmon
From Ohio to Florida to Montana, here's where Republicans may be using voter suppression tactics to tilt the presidential election. (10/22/2008)

Main Street's body count rises By Nick Turse
As suicides and murders emerge in the wake of the financial crisis, the fallout is increasingly measured not only in dollars but in blood. (10/22/2008)

Among the hardy Republicans By Garrison Keillor
The citizens of Abilene, Texas, voted overwhelmingly to reelect Bush in '04. We've all done dumb things. (10/22/2008)

What is happening to GOP electoral tactics? Glenn Greenwald
Standard GOP patriotism tropes are failing to resonate and are actually backfiring. Why? (10/22/2008)

Salon Radio: Eric Boehlert on Drudge's decline Glenn Greenwald
Is the right-wing gossipmonger finally losing his sway over campaign reporters? (10/22/2008)

How real Americans dress Alex Koppelman
The Republican National Committee has spent more than $150,000 on clothes and accessories for Sarah Palin and her family. (10/22/2008)

McCain: Western Pa. "most God-loving, most patriotic part of America" Alex Koppelman
Palin apologized for similar remarks, but the GOP ticket now has a long record of denigrating areas of the country that don't support it. (10/22/2008)

"I'm Joe the Plumber" Alex Koppelman
Hoped his 15 minutes of fame were up? Sorry -- the McCain camp's newest ad is all about him. (10/22/2008)

Protester tries citizen's arrest of Rove Alex Koppelman
At an event in San Francisco, a woman tried to slap handcuffs on the former Bush advisor, but he fended her off. (10/22/2008)

Anthrax scare at New York Times Alex Koppelman
Police are investigating after an envelope containing white powder was sent to the paper. (10/22/2008)

Photo of the day Alex Koppelman
You can't claim to be really devoted to John McCain until you've applied some body paint. (10/22/2008)

McCain and the media: Is the romance over? Vincent Rossmeier
A new study finds that the media's recent coverage of John McCain has been decidedly negative. (10/22/2008)

NRCC cuts off Bachmann Alex Koppelman
In the wake of her comments on "Hardball," the controversial Minnesota congresswoman can no longer count on help from her party's campaign committee. (10/22/2008)

Go ahead, jump on the bandwagon King Kaufman
Being a fan of a losing team isn't a sign of character. It's a consumer choice. So is newfound passion for the Phillies or Rays. (10/22/2008)

Is fan loyalty bunk? King Kaufman
The readers write -- some more! -- about bandwagoning and whether fandom is really just a consumer choice. (10/22/2008)

World Series preview King Kaufman
This column's column simulator has written this column 2,000 times and predicts the Rays in 7. Or something about Jeannie Zelasko. (10/22/2008)

Wall Street's California problem Andrew Leonard
Wachovia reports a $23.7 billion quarterly loss. "Westward ho!" now looks like a pretty bad rallying cry for the North Carolina bank. (10/22/2008)

What ever happened to vote pairing? Cyrus Farivar
It's still around, just not in the 2008 American elections. (10/22/2008)

Muxlim Pal to be world's first Muslim-themed virtual world Cyrus Farivar
Muxlim.com says the electronic "umma" will have its own Second Life in a few months. (10/22/2008)

Hank Paulson rewrites history Andrew Leonard
The Treasury Secretary tells Charlie Rose that an earlier push to recapitalize banks wouldn't have made "any difference" (10/22/2008)

The Wal-Mart recession Andrew Leonard
Another dismal economic indicator: Paycheck-related spikes in baby formula purchases (10/22/2008)

A rock star is born By Michaelangelo Matos
Channeling Prince and David Bowie, Of Montreal's Kevin Barnes has become an unlikely sex symbol. (10/21/2008)

Gotham noms kick off award season (ack!) Andrew O'Hehir
Inside the N.Y.-based indie awards, where we nominated "Ballast," "The Visitor," "Synecdoche," "The Wrestler" and a bunch of films nobody has ever seen. (10/21/2008)

Red State Update: Bill Ayers is a hippie!
He's not a terrorist. What kind of terrorist has a living room? Osama bin Laden lives in a cave! (10/21/2008)

Bateman: A desperate Pat Buchanan "went there"
Everybody stop talking all at once, you're making this hard to animate! (10/21/2008)

"Fault Lines" By James Hannaham
The masterful and ambitious "Fault Lines" reveals how history gets erased and reinvented, and hints at how it might repeat itself. (10/21/2008)

This Modern World By Tom Tomorrow
McCain and Palin's extremely compelling reasons you should vote for their ticket. (10/21/2008)

LAPD neglects rape cases Tracy Clark-Flory
The L.A. police department failed to test 217 sexual assault kits before the prosecution deadline. (10/21/2008)

Say it ain't so, Joe! By Mike Madden
Democrats are furious over Joe Lieberman's cheerleading for McCain-Palin. But would punishing the powerful senator be a smart move? (10/21/2008)

Why is Barack Obama now electable? By Walter Shapiro
From the youth vote to Sarah Palin's outdated embrace of the rural mystique, Salon's panel of demographers and consumer trend experts talks about how America is changing. (10/21/2008)

Mark Halperin defends Rush Limbaugh's Powell/race theory Glenn Greenwald
Why isn't this race-based analysis being applied to white political figures who are endorsing this year outside of their party? (10/21/2008)

Bob the Banker speaks out By Gary Kamiya
In an exclusive interview, Joe the Plumber's big brother reveals why Obama's plan to "spread the wealth" will turn America into a socialist hell. (10/21/2008)

Those who want Joe Lieberman to remain a Democrat Glenn Greenwald
Anonymous, cowardly Democratic consultants illustrate why the party has stood for nothing for so long. (10/21/2008)

My cameo on "The Colbert Report" Joan Walsh
Thanks to Pat Buchanan's Colin Powell meltdown, I was featured in Scott Bateman and Colbert satires, all in one day. (10/21/2008)

Obama ad goes after McCain's leadership, temperament Alex Koppelman
The new spot, airing in at least one key swing state, calls the Republican nominee, and his response to the economic crisis, "erratic." (10/21/2008)

The lobster dinner that wasn't Alex Koppelman
Page Six retracts a report that Michelle Obama ordered a lavish meal while at one of New York's most luxurious hotels. (10/21/2008)

The real sore-losermans Thomas Schaller
The reason for all this acting up is that the GOP is losing. (10/21/2008)

Real Americans and the liberals who hate them Alex Koppelman
A Republican congressman is caught lying about whether he said "liberals hate real Americans that work and accomplish and achieve and believe in God." (10/21/2008)

Obama's own campaign suspension Alex Koppelman
This time around, it's Barack Obama who's leaving the trail briefly, to visit his ailing grandmother. (10/21/2008)

Obama's big advantage Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama has much more money available to him than John McCain does, and can raise even more. (10/21/2008)

Letter from a Texas Republican Thomas Schaller
Add another voice to the list of those who have had enough. (10/21/2008)

McCain "absolutely" proud of RNC 9/11 mailer Alex Koppelman
John McCain says he has no problems with a pamphlet that asserts Barack Obama believes terrorists "just need a good talking to." (10/21/2008)

Rays vs. Phillies? Who cares? King Kaufman
You should, imaginary person who asked that question. The World Series is exciting and new and different this year. (10/21/2008)

Ericsson says global mobile market is "flattish" in 2009 Cyrus Farivar
But losses in the North are offset by growth in the South. (10/21/2008)

As Greenspan plummets, Volcker surges Andrew Leonard
If you could trade shares in Fed chairmen, it's time to sell the Maestro. As for Bernanke? Every week, it's a different story. (10/21/2008)

Where are Obama and McCain off to today? Cyrus Farivar
How to track the candidates' locations online. (10/21/2008)

What does its CEO's endorsement of Obama mean for Google? Cyrus Farivar
Eric Schmidt may just be angling for a Cabinet job. (10/21/2008)

The secret to Rachel Maddow's ratings success Andrew Leonard
It's all about Princeton professor star power. Go Tigers! (10/21/2008)

Big Think: All of our decisions impact somebody else
Marjora Carter, executive director of Sustainable South Bronx, discusses trying to help people reconnect with the natural world. (10/20/2008)

"Everything matters to everybody" By Beth Arnold
French provocateur Bernard-Henri Lévy on how the left is being destroyed by tolerance -- and why Europeans love Obama. (10/20/2008)

Ask Pablo By Pablo Päster
The presidential candidates keep talking about the evils of China's new coal plants and "clean coal technology" as a savior. What's the real story? (10/20/2008)

"Conservative feminist" dudes for Palin Kate Harding
Some men think "it's time for a woman to lead us," but unfortunately, they think Sarah Palin's the right woman for the job. (10/20/2008)

Michele Bachmann: Chris started it! Kate Harding
The Minnesota congresswoman blames Chris Matthews for that whole "anti-American" thing. (10/20/2008)

Ding-dong, "the bitch" is dead? Amy Reiter
Evaluating the legacy of Mr. Blackwell, dead at 86, whose annual worst-dressed list inspired laughter -- and cruelty. (10/20/2008)

Sneak peek: The Palin porno Tracy Clark-Flory
Hustler's much-buzzed-about "Nailin' Paylin" has hit the Web -- and it's just as bad as expected. (10/20/2008)

Smells like middle-aged spirit By Darin Strauss
Your 20th high school reunion is a reminder that you actually can go home again. But as you suck in your gut, ask yourself this: Do you want to? (10/20/2008)

I'm a two-time casualty of crashing U.S. markets By Cary Tennis
I was a self-made stockbroker nailed by 9/11. Then I got into mortgages and it happened again! (10/20/2008)

Turning Indiana blue By Walter Shapiro
Put off by the McCain-Palin ticket, suburban Republicans are backing Barack Obama -- who might score a rare Democratic win in the Hoosier State. (10/20/2008)

I was mayor of El Cerrito. Can I be vice president? By Mark Friedman
Here's why I'm just as qualified as Sarah Palin for the nation's second-highest office. (10/20/2008)

Budget cutting? Take a hatchet to the war on drugs By Joe Conason
Every year we throw away billions on a failed program to punish addicts -- an approach both candidates should know doesn't work. (10/20/2008)

Pat Buchanan runs out of arguments Joan Walsh
After failing to devalue Colin Powell's Obama endorsement on "Hardball," the GOP veteran played the race card, unconvincingly. (10/21/2008)

Early voting results Thomas Schaller
George Mason prof has preliminary data on early voting patterns. (10/20/2008)

McCain camp questions Obama fundraising Thomas Schaller
Rick Davis complains of pattern of nonresponsiveness and lack of transparency and disclosure. (10/20/2008)

Foxy Judy Thomas Schaller
Former New York Times reporter Judith Miller to join Fox News. (10/20/2008)

One-third chance of filibuster-proof Senate Thomas Schaller
FiveThirtyEight's Nate Silver raises the probability of 60 seats to 32 percent. (10/20/2008)

Bachmann turning into overdrive Thomas Schaller
The Minnesota congresswoman tries to deny McCarthyite threats. (10/20/2008)

Barack the closer Thomas Schaller
His stump speech is gradually narrowing to essential points. (10/20/2008)

"Office Space" star campaigns for Obama Thomas Schaller
With TPS reports done, Ron Livingston hits the trail for the Democrat in his native Iowa. (10/20/2008)

McCain campaign reconsiders Rev. Wright Gabriel Winant
Though the candidate ruled out use of Obama's pastor as an issue, he may be one of the last bullets in the McCain team's gun. (10/20/2008)

Noonan: Palin is new vulgarian Thomas Schaller
Former Reagan speechwriter puts Palin pick in perspective. (10/20/2008)

Powell's lesson Thomas Schaller
Section 60 and the Muslim patriot who gave his life. (10/20/2008)

Rays make World Series pitch King Kaufman
The Red Sox had all the momentum, but in a Game 7, it's even better to have a lights-out hurler. Tampa Bay had two. (10/20/2008)

ALCS delays, umps and Manny King Kaufman
How can MLB not have a backup ump ready? Would the Red Sox have made the playoffs with that lineup all year? The readers write. (10/20/2008)

The evolution of Ben Bernanke Andrew Leonard
Ten months ago, he grudgingly supported a stimulus package. Today, his endorsement is wholehearted (10/20/2008)

Obama's message to Florida Andrew Leonard
In a state ravaged by the housing bust, the candidate asks: "Are you better off now than you were four weeks ago?" (10/20/2008)

Sony recalls LittleBigPlanet over Quran quote in music Cyrus Farivar
The soundtrack comes from a famous Malian singer who's Muslim. (10/20/2008)

Lessons from the bailout Andrew Leonard
The credit crunch is loosening up. Now is the time to show the same kind of big government love to Main Street. (10/20/2008)

U.K. proposes massive database to monitor cell and Net communications Cyrus Farivar
Passports may be required to purchase prepaid SIM cards. (10/20/2008)

I Like to Watch By Heather Havrilesky
Is NBC's "Crusoe" a gay escapist fantasy? Is Starz' series "Crash" as bad as the Oscar-winning film it's based on? Yes, yes, a thousand times yes! (10/19/2008)

Bateman: Powell's Obama endorsement ("Meat Pie Press")
"I was also concerned at the selection of Gov. Palin." (10/19/2008)

Opus By Berkeley Breathed
Unlike you liberal elites, I live in the real world! (10/19/2008)

The rap on Palin Judy Berman
Salon writers weigh in on the V.P. candidate's "Saturday Night Live" appearance. (10/19/2008)

Sarah Palin on "SNL" Joan Walsh
Amy Poehler makes it all bearable. (10/19/2008)

A devastating blow to John McCain Joan Walsh
Endorsing Barack Obama, Colin Powell directly rebukes the GOP's fear-and-smear campaign. (10/19/2008)

Colin Powell condemns the ugliness of the Republican Party Glenn Greenwald
A potentially critical endorsement of Barack Obama includes a poignant and stinging attack on the vile anti-Muslim tactics of "senior" Republicans. (10/19/2008)

Colin Powell endorses Barack Obama Andrew Leonard
On Meet the Press: "I will be voting for Barack Obama" (10/19/2008)

Obama raises $150 million Andrew Leonard
September's campaign fundraising smashes all previous records to smithereens. (10/19/2008)

Powell endorses Obama with "overwhelming force" Andrew Leonard
The retired general did not mince his words: Obama is "the president we need," and the GOP has gone "too far" to the right. (10/19/2008)

Powell endorsement incites right-wing rage Andrew Leonard
Chorus from the right: Powell's race explains everything. (10/19/2008)

Fighting abortion restrictions in Oklahoma
Tracy Clark-Flory comments on a law that would require women to view ultrasounds before having an abortion. (10/18/2008)

George W. Bush's greatest hits
Stephanie Zacharek and Andrew O'Hehir discuss Oliver Stone's latest film. (10/18/2008)

Critics' Picks
Become a Tarvuist, see Palin in the White House, sample "Acid Tongue," and watch your grammar. (10/18/2008)

Bigfoot's YouTube medieval adventure Andrew O'Hehir
The week in indie film, from the gorgeous animation of "Azur & Asmar" to Wayne Wang's edgy YouTube release to the quest for Bigfoot -- in Ohio. (10/18/2008)

The end of "Opus" By Kerry Lauerman
Berkeley Breathed explains how our coarse national dialogue led him to end his strip. But what fate awaits our beloved, big-nosed hero? (10/18/2008)

"Informed consent" or coercion? Tracy Clark-Flory
An Oklahoma bill that would force a pre-abortion ultrasound is legally challenged. (10/18/2008)

Dissecting Cindy McCain's private world Glenn Greenwald
Are there any journalistic standards left for determining whether a political figure's private life should be investigated and disclosed? (10/18/2008)

Your "anti-America" is my campaign finance bonanza Andrew Leonard
Michelle Bachman's impersonation of Joe McCarthy raises $400,000 for her Democratic opponent. (10/18/2008)

Huge Obama crowd in Missouri Andrew Leonard
The candidate assesses the masses: "All I can say is 'Wow.'" (10/18/2008)

A Democratic lesson in job creation Andrew Leonard
Evidence suggests targeted tax credits work. So does electing Democratic presidents. (10/18/2008)

Colin Powell endorsement fever Andrew Leonard
Will the former secretary of state declare his intentions on Sunday's "Meet the Press"? And why should we care? (10/18/2008)

All's fair with drugs and Cindy McCain Andrew Leonard
A lawyer for the beer heiress complains to the New York Times about unfair "cruel hit pieces." (10/18/2008)

"What Just Happened" By Stephanie Zacharek
Robert De Niro heads an all-star cast in this self-amused Hollywood sendup. (10/17/2008)

Is Trig Palin staying up too late?
We take a look at the baby past his bedtime. (10/17/2008)

Bateman: The final debate, Part 2
Hrrmph, women's health. (10/17/2008)

"The Secret Life of Bees" By Stephanie Zacharek
This clear-eyed movie doesn't shy away from the racial tension and violence that marked the South in the 1960s -- yet it buzzes with optimism. (10/17/2008)

"W." By Stephanie Zacharek
Oliver Stone paints a surprisingly sympathetic picture of George W. Bush in this award-courting movie. (10/17/2008)

The most patriotic citizens?
We find it hard to believe that John McCain is proud of the people at his rallies, but he said it himself. (10/17/2008)

WayLay By Carol Lay
Jill's condition calls for desperate measures. (10/17/2008)

Reasons Amy Poehler rocks No. 678 Rebecca Traister
As if she doesn't already bring us enough happiness ... (10/17/2008)

My brother is brilliant -- and wildly inappropriate! By Cary Tennis
At 38, he slurps his cereal, dresses bizarrely and throws childish temper tantrums. (10/17/2008)

Girl tells Palin: I didn't choose rape Tracy Clark-Flory
An emotional new ad tells the story of a young rape victim who got pregnant. (10/17/2008)

Risk a felony or a woman's life Tracy Clark-Flory
A hospital says South Dakota's abortion ban requires doctors to take serious medical risks. (10/17/2008)

"If she'd been a man, would you have selected him?" Kate Harding
David Letterman grills John McCain on his choice of Sarah Palin. Awesome. (10/17/2008)

It's Trig time! Mark Schone
Sarah Palin's baby sure is logging a lot of frequent-flier miles. Should Mom be leaving him at home? (10/17/2008)

Video of the day Kate Harding
The literal version of Tears for Fears' "Head Over Heels" video. (10/17/2008)

Banking on early votes for Barack By Mike Madden
How the Obama campaign is aiming to turn out early voters, and why it could be crucial for Election Day. (10/17/2008)

Election by sound bite By Joan Didion
Obsessed by "lipstick on a pig," economic "free fall" and other "great stories," America has failed to see the real challenges it faces. (10/17/2008)

Is McCain really proud of these crowds? Joan Walsh
A video record of the hate whipped up by the GOP ticket. (10/17/2008)

Jim Martin: Principle vs. cowardice Glenn Greenwald
Despite running in a Deep South red state, the Democratic Senate candidate courageously takes some important positions at odds with the House Democratic leadership. (10/17/2008)

Poor John McCain: Forced against his honor to run an ugly campaign Glenn Greenwald
McCain-loving journalists continue to insist that the Arizona senator is an honorable, unwilling victim of his own campaign. (10/17/2008)

The Laugh Factory, featuring McCain and Obama Alex Koppelman
At the Al Smith dinner, it's actually traditional for the candidates to go negative against their opponent, but it's all in good fun. (10/17/2008)

Washington Post endorses Obama Thomas Schaller
Despite rumors that the Iraq war-supporting and McCain-doting editorial board might go the other way, the paper backs Obama. (10/17/2008)

Boss and Billy praise, raise for Obama Thomas Schaller
Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel headline Manhattan concert and fundraiser for the "next president of the United States." (10/17/2008)

Reporter kicked at Palin rally Thomas Schaller
The list of angry atrocities continues to grow. (10/17/2008)

Joe Klein's latest McCain smack-down Thomas Schaller
This time, Time's columnist is pummeling John McCain for his nasty robo-calls. (10/17/2008)

The 60th senator Thomas Schaller
New developments could make things interesting in Nebraska. (10/17/2008)

Palin implies you're not pro-America Thomas Schaller
The Alaska governor continues to reach for the bottom of the culture war barrel. (10/17/2008)

The declining relevance of white male voters Thomas Schaller
If he wins, Obama's electoral coalition will also break a glass ceiling. (10/17/2008)

Robo bust Thomas Schaller
Looks like nothing is working for the McCain campaign this year. (10/17/2008)

Supreme Court rules in Ohio case Thomas Schaller
Republican attempt to bog down Democratic secretary of state unanimously rejected. (10/17/2008)

L.A. Times, Chicago Tribune also endorse Obama Thomas Schaller
Two more majors join the Washington Post in rolling out endorsements for the Democratic nominee. (10/17/2008)

When talking points go wrong Alex Koppelman
Chris Matthews skewers GOP congresswoman for bringing up Ayers and Wright and saying Obama "may have anti-American views." (10/17/2008)

Red Sox comeback: Greatest ever? King Kaufman
Their rally from 7-0 down in the seventh was for the ages -- it just wasn't for the fools who left Fenway early. (10/17/2008)

NFL Week 7 picks King Kaufman
And the winner will be -- ooh, a last-second timeout to ice the prognosticator! (10/17/2008)

Death to FireWire 400 Cyrus Farivar
How Apple sets the industry standard -- again. (10/17/2008)

Can flying cars finally take off? Cyrus Farivar
One Massachusetts start-up will showcase its first test flight next month. (10/17/2008)

Ask the pilot By Patrick Smith
Of airports, hedgehogs and poverty. Meditations from an African slum. (10/17/2008)

The people come to California's rescue Andrew Leonard
The credit freeze doesn't scare Joe Sixpack Investor. A state bond issue finds favor with the "little" guy (10/17/2008)

New EFF brief argues telecom immunity law is unconstitutional Cyrus Farivar
The San Francisco nonprofit challenges the FISA Amendments Act of 2008. (10/17/2008)

Ron Paul in 2012? Andrew Leonard
"Our numbers are growing," the Texas Republican tells CNN. Financial chaos is no surprise to him, or his followers. (10/17/2008)

Armadillo archaeological mayhem Andrew Leonard
Reconstructing history rewritten by rodent burrows is a dirty job. But someone will do it (10/17/2008)

Bateman: The final debate
"Facts are facts and records are records." Scott Bateman responds to audio from the presidential candidates. (10/16/2008)

Is McCain's negative campaigning ruining his legacy?
Joan Walsh takes a look at the GOP candidate's recent attack ads. (10/16/2008)

"Runway's" fifth -- and final? -- winner By Heather Havrilesky
Did Korto's vibrant, unique looks, Leanne's aqua waves of same or Kenley's flocked retro kaleidoscope rock Fashion Week? (10/16/2008)

Madonna? I'm ready Andrew O'Hehir
Forget Guy! Forget A-Rod! All the reasons why the Material Girl and I should be together are made clear in "Filth and Wisdom," her likable, trivial directing debut. (10/16/2008)

Let's talk crap By Katharine Mieszkowski
Our frank interview about human waste may horrify you about how the world cleans itself down there. (10/16/2008)

Tom the Dancing Bug By Ruben Bolling
Lucky Ducky, the poor little duck who's rich in luck. (10/16/2008)

Too young to change genders? By Tracy Clark-Flory
When a child demands to live as the opposite sex, parents face a controversial decision. (10/16/2008)

Thanks for the air quotes, flyboy Sarah Hepola
It's no surprise that John McCain doesn't care about women's health. The shocking part is that he doesn't even know he's supposed to. (10/16/2008)

My first cousin's a billionaire -- can't he spare a million or two? By Cary Tennis
We've got the same grandparents ... so where's my check? (10/16/2008)

Your daily debate Abby Margulies
Can't get enough about being "pro-abortion," McCain's admiration for the first dude and whether or not Sarah Palin knows about autism? We can help you out. (10/16/2008)

Video of the day: Dan Savage to Sarah Palin Katharine Mieszkowski
"I'd like to be your gay friend!" (10/16/2008)

McCain's last stand By Walter Shapiro
The Republican senator's final debate performance was marked by oddball characters and marginal attacks, as hopes of his political resurrection appeared to fade. (10/17/2008)

How to fix the Department of Homeland Security By David Berman and Paul Light
Among other messes left behind by Bush, the next president will have to clean up this unwieldy, inefficient behemoth. A few suggestions for Obama and McCain. (10/16/2008)

The Mac attack backfires Joan Walsh
Polls show John McCain is only hurting himself with his negative campaign. Will he turn it around? (10/16/2008)

McCain loses again Joan Walsh
In a bizarre debate dominated by Joe the Plumber, the GOP candidate failed to break through, and his sarcasm -- again -- will hurt him. (10/17/2008)

Our diverse and vibrant democracy Glenn Greenwald
How did a blatant falsehood -- that Russia's attack on Georgia was "unprovoked" -- become unchallenged orthodoxy in the U.S.? (10/16/2008)

Obama ad hits McCain's "I am not President Bush" comment Alex Koppelman
The campaign's post-debate spot returns to an old theme, tying the two Republicans together -- and takes advantage of McCain's expressions in the debate. (10/16/2008)

Rove's map shows big Obama win Alex Koppelman
The latest projection from the man once known as "Bush's Brain" is that Obama is in position to capture 313 Electoral College votes, 43 more than he needs. (10/16/2008)

McCain goes positive, maybe Alex Koppelman
After weeks in which his campaign ran only negative ads, McCain releases an extended positive spot -- the question is how much it'll really air. (10/16/2008)

GOP group depicts Obama with watermelon, fried chicken Alex Koppelman
The organization's president says she wasn't aware of the racial connotations of the image, which is of Barack Obama on a food stamp -- "It was just food to me." (10/16/2008)

Did anyone really yell "Kill him"? Alex Koppelman
The Secret Service says allegations that attendees at two of Sarah Palin's rallies called for the death of Barack Obama are unfounded. (10/16/2008)

Scandal-plagued Rep. Mahoney may not seek reelection Alex Koppelman
The Florida Democrat, hit by two sex scandals in less than a week, has been running to return to Congress but may retire instead. (10/16/2008)

Disabled veteran speaks in stunning ad Alex Koppelman
A powerful new spot features a man who speaks using a computer, because of injuries he received serving in Iraq. (10/16/2008)

This time, McCain shows up for "Letterman" Alex Koppelman
The last time he was booked on the late-night show, John McCain (sort of) suspended his campaign instead; Thursday, he tried to make amends. (10/17/2008)

Phillies win, exit Manny King Kaufman
L.A.'s giddy affair with Ramirez set to end as Philadelphia dispatches the Dodgers in five games. (10/16/2008)

"Keep your head up, buddy" King Kaufman
Fox's microphones capture Phillies outfielder Shane Victorino playing hard and acting like a regular guy. (10/16/2008)

Death march of the hedge funds Andrew Leonard
The rich are running scared, and dragging global markets down as they panic (10/16/2008)

More stock market woe: Blame the hurricanes Andrew Leonard
Industrial production goes off a cliff and the stock market follows. Monday's rally? Gone, baby, gone. (10/16/2008)

China and the bailout: Happy to help Andrew Leonard
The People's Republic will assist in the nationalization of the U.S. financial sector. Because the Chinese have no choice. (10/16/2008)

Is your cellphone making you itch? Cyrus Farivar
Some 30 percent of Brits are suffering from "mobile phone dermatitis." Blame nickel. (10/16/2008)

Is Google recession proof? Andrew Leonard
The global economy may be hurting, but so far, the pain hasn't prevented the search giant from minting money (10/16/2008)

Bateman: Sarah Palin vs. Troopergate
"The report has shown that there was no illegal or unethical activity there in my choice to replace our commissioner." (10/15/2008)

Semisweet "Chocolate News" By James Hannaham
Is David Alan Grier's flava-ful new sketch comedy show a black version of "The Daily Show"? (10/15/2008)

Tina Fey's cultural impact
Rebecca Traister reflects on the comedian's political work. (10/15/2008)

Forgive me, America, for I have sinned By Laura Miller
Some politicians survive sex scandals. Why? They have perfected the public grovel. (10/15/2008)

The K Chronicles By Keith Knight
Where's my huge production deal?! (10/15/2008)

WTF of the day: Women's hormones increase cavities? Abby Margulies
You might assume bad teeth are a result of candy or poor hygiene. But could it be too much estrogen? (10/15/2008)

Victim blaming or same old scare tactics? Judy Berman
Some feminist blogs are outraged by an Australian PSA that shows a drunk teenager being raped. But is the anger justified? (10/15/2008)

Obama by a nose By Gabriel Winant
An expert "face reader" tells us what McCain's jowls say about his drooping power base, how Palin's cheekbones explain her "polite" power style and why the Democrats are looking awfully good. (10/15/2008)

California preys on gays, teens Lynn Harris
Nov. 4 initiatives: You can't get married or have an abortion. (10/15/2008)

"Pro-life and pro-Obama" Lynn Harris
Does the GOP have PUMAs of its own? (10/15/2008)

Can pregnant cops still work? Sarah Hepola
The ACLU is representing five Detroit police officers forced to take sick leave after getting pregnant. Why not just give them desk duty? (10/15/2008)

My girlfriend "settled" for me -- and I don't trust her By Cary Tennis
I shouldn't have looked in her diary, but maybe it's best that I did. (10/15/2008)

Which John McCain will show up to debate? By Mike Madden
With his campaign on the rocks, McCain could hit reset one more time and abandon civility in his final showdown with Barack Obama. (10/15/2008)

Behind the GOP's voter fraud hysteria By Andrew Burmon
As Republicans warn of catastrophe at the polls, an expert on election fraud explains the real partisan hoax -- the suppression of Democratic votes. (10/15/2008)

Salon Radio: Scott Horton Glenn Greenwald
Did PBS (and Jay Rockefeller's wife) block the broadcast of a documentary linking torture to the Bush administration? And what role did Bill Kristol play in Sarah Palin's selection? (10/15/2008)

Let the leader lead By Garrison Keillor
The American people are poised to do something that could not be imagined 10 years ago -- elect the best man president, regardless of his skin color. (10/15/2008)

Patrick Ruffini, the demise of the right and the Democratic alternative Glenn Greenwald
Destruction of the right will achieve a necessary good, but it is only the first step, not the last, to achieve anything meaningful. (10/15/2008)

The Michelle Obama "interview" that wasn't Alex Koppelman
An obscure Web site says it got an angry call from Obama; the story's obviously bogus, but some bloggers on the right took the bait. (10/15/2008)

More trouble for Florida Dem Mahoney Gabriel Winant
The congressman who rode anti-Foley anger into the House faces his second sex scandal in less than a week. (10/15/2008)

Polls: Obama wins again Alex Koppelman
Early results indicate that a majority of voters believe Barack Obama swept his debates with John McCain. (10/16/2008)

McCain loses the last debate Mike Madden
The last debate was John McCain's last chance to change the dynamic of the campaign. If he did change anything, he probably made it worse for himself. (10/16/2008)

Who said drinking and political advertising don't mix? Alex Koppelman
A liberal 527 goes for the Joe Six-Pack vote. (10/15/2008)

Report: Obama camp moving staff out of Michigan Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama's campaign appears to be taking advantage of its solid position in the state and diverting resources to red states. (10/15/2008)

Live-blogging: Abortion comes up, finally Alex Koppelman
Some on the right had complained about bias in previous debates, citing as one example a lack of questions about an issue they think is good for the Republican ticket. (10/16/2008)

Live-blogging: McCain gets angry Mike Madden
The temperament gap appears again at the third presidential debate. (10/16/2008)

Live-blogging: Mercy for Palin Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama wisely took a pass on attacking the Republican vice-presidential nominee. (10/16/2008)

Live-blogging: The Ayers card Alex Koppelman
As promised, John McCain brought up the former Weather Underground member at tonight's debate. (10/16/2008)

Obama up big in Va., leading in Fla., Colo. Alex Koppelman
A new CNN poll is just the latest to show Barack Obama with a commanding lead in what could be the election's pivotal state. (10/15/2008)

Bush issues another signing statement Vincent Rossmeier
Once again, the president asserts that the executive branch is exempt from segments of new laws. (10/15/2008)

Republicans giving up on Wisconsin? Alex Koppelman
The independent arm of the Republican National Committee that handles ad buys has reportedly not booked airtime in the state for the next week. (10/15/2008)

Live-blogging: What are you, chicken? Alex Koppelman
Debate moderator Bob Schieffer tries to taunt the candidates into attacking each other. (10/16/2008)

Live-blogging: If at first you don't succeed Alex Koppelman
At an earlier debate, the candidates were asked to give Americans straight answers about what cuts they'll have to make to their proposals; tonight, Bob Schieffer tried again. (10/16/2008)

A geography lesson from Sarah Palin Alex Koppelman
New Hampshire residents attending a rally on Wednesday didn't sound happy to hear Sarah Palin say their state is part of the Northwest. (10/15/2008)

Live-blogging: Tune in again next time for the Obama show Mike Madden
John McCain won't have another TV audience this large again. Barack Obama -- thanks to his prime-time specials -- will. (10/16/2008)

Republican senator releases gay-baiting ad Alex Koppelman
What are the Village People doing in a campaign ad? Good question. (10/15/2008)

Live-blogging: Who let Bill Clinton in here? Alex Koppelman
Discussing the economy, John McCain is trying to convince Americans that he understands what they're going through. (10/16/2008)

Can McCain perform the miracle he needs? Alex Koppelman
It's time for the final debate -- and the GOP candidate's future is on the line. (10/16/2008)

Maybe he's a terrorist -- at least he's not a Republican! Mike Madden
How bad have things gotten for John McCain? Bad enough that voters are telling pollsters they think Barack Obama was in a "terrorist group" with Bill Ayers -- but they support him anyway. (10/15/2008)

A Red Sox beat-down King Kaufman
Forget about curses, luck and momentum. The Rays are just pounding Boston into submission. (10/15/2008)

Debate prep: Dow falls a whopping 733 points Andrew Leonard
Monday's rally is ancient history, as investors run for cover, again. Does anyone care about Bill Ayers? (10/15/2008)

Consumers vote with their wallets Andrew Leonard
Retail spending takes a big hit. Also: Yet another way to compare today with the Great Depression (10/15/2008)

Obama campaign brings ads to video games Cyrus Farivar
One professor dubs the strategy "San Andreas Populism." (10/15/2008)

Need a ticket to a game tonight? Check out FanSnap Cyrus Farivar
The new start-up is the third site to offer aggregated online search for event ticket sales. (10/15/2008)

Who will save the economy? Andrew Leonard
Paulson hopes banks will lend their new billions. Democrats propose a $300 billion new deal. Voters get to add their 2 cents in 20 days. (10/15/2008)

George Bush and his bank bailout Andrew Leonard
Are the President and the Treasury Secretary on the same page? (10/15/2008)

Bateman: John McCain defends Barack Obama
Breaking news: McCain discovers simple politeness. (10/14/2008)

Red State Update: Jackie and Dunlap watch the debate
At a viewing party in Nashville, watch out for the "B.S. factor." (10/14/2008)

"Sea of Poppies" By Laura Miller
"Sea of Poppies," set in Calcutta, is a swashbuckling saga full of sadists, weaklings and tyrants -- and, thankfully, there are two more volumes to come. (10/14/2008)

This Modern World By Tom Tomorrow
Too stupid to Google it yourself? (10/14/2008)

Making the best of uncertain times By Cary Tennis
Yes, the financial markets are in turmoil, but let's get back to basics. (10/14/2008)

No time to cry wolf By Anne Lamott
It's right to be afraid of Sarah Palin and the outcome of the election. But still, we have to have faith. (10/14/2008)

Rape defense: She's happy now! Tracy Clark-Flory
A lawyer presents Facebook photos of his client's victim as evidence that she's doing just fine. (10/14/2008)

Video: Friendly fire attack in Iraq
Helmet-cam video from Ramadi, Iraq, where Pfc. Albert Nelson was allegedly killed by an American tank, and an interview with the soldier's mother. (10/14/2008)

The Army's version of the deaths of Nelson and Suarez By Mark Benjamin
Despite a video that seems to show friendly fire, and the discovery of a tank shell near the impact site, the official investigation attributes their deaths to enemy action. (10/14/2008)

Friendly fire in Iraq -- and a coverup By Mark Benjamin
The Army says no, but a graphic video and eyewitness testimony indicate that a U.S. tank killed two American soldiers. The mother of one soldier demands answers. (10/14/2008)

Steve Pearlstein's strange attempt to glorify Hank Paulson and himself Glenn Greenwald
The Washington Post columnist claims that the U.S. led the world to economic salvation when the truth is actually the exact opposite. (10/14/2008)

McCain: The risky choice for president Joan Walsh
After betting his campaign on efforts to smear Barack Obama, John McCain finds he's the one voters don't trust. (10/15/2008)

Palin family values By Gary Kamiya
The damning Troopergate report shows that Gov. Palin is not only unethical but vindictive. (10/14/2008)

McCain's little brother throws a tantrum Andrew Burmon
In an e-mail to friends, Joe McCain expresses his displeasure with the way his brother's campaign is being run. (10/14/2008)

Obama has commanding lead in four key states Alex Koppelman
A new round of polling shows the Democratic nominee trouncing McCain in states that were supposed to be competitive. (10/14/2008)

McCain says he'll bring up Ayers during debate Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama apparently got under John McCain's skin by suggesting he didn't have the guts to bring up the former Weatherman in the last debate. (10/14/2008)

Obama leads by 14 in new NYT/CBS poll Alex Koppelman
That huge lead may prove inflated, but there are some other numbers in the results that should be very worrying for John McCain. (10/14/2008)

RNC considers investing $5 million in Senate races Gabriel Winant
The committee may borrow money to try to save vulnerable senators, rather than bail out the party's flailing presidential candidate. (10/14/2008)

Obama-loving Hollywood liberals strike again Vincent Rossmeier
Warner Bros. blocks the release of the DVD version of "Hanoi Hilton," which includes an interview with John McCain about his time in captivity in Vietnam. (10/14/2008)

"Kill him!" again Alex Koppelman
Not for the first time, someone in the crowd for one of Sarah Palin's rallies calls for the death of Barack Obama. (10/14/2008)

Christopher Buckley quits the National Review Gabriel Winant
His relationship with the conservative movement has gone sour since he endorsed Obama; he has now left the magazine his father founded. (10/14/2008)

The man behind the Rays' success King Kaufman
According to Caray and Martinez of TBS, it's Chuck LaMar, whose 10 years of incompetence as G.M. evidently laid some kind of foundation. (10/14/2008)

BP nailed the '08 Rays -- in '05 King Kaufman
Baseball Prospectus sized up Tampa Bay three years ago and figured the team was three years away. (10/14/2008)

Apple laptop rumors abound Cyrus Farivar
In the final hours before Tuesday's event, new aluminum machines are predicted. (10/14/2008)

President Bush signs into law new "Pro-IP" bill Cyrus Farivar
But how pro-intellectual property is it, really? (10/14/2008)

McCain warns against "erratic" politicians Andrew Leonard
The new all-about-the-economy McCain sounds a lot like a Democrat. Right down to the sound bite. (10/14/2008)

Grover Norquist's bad stock market prediction Andrew Leonard
Four years ago, the conservative predicted that America's embrace of stock ownership would increase Republican domination. (10/14/2008)

Falling gas prices: Where's the outrage? Andrew Leonard
It's October in an election year and the price of gasoline is dropping like a rock. Where have all the conspiracy theorists gone? (10/14/2008)

Big Think: "I hope that we can restore our image"
Lawyer and author Mahvish Khan discusses her experiences at Guantánamo. (10/13/2008)

Bateman: Diddy vs. McCain
"John McCain scares me even more than Sarah Palin!" (10/13/2008)

Dirt cheap By Steve Almond
Step one in the battle against soaring food prices: Start your own recession garden. (10/13/2008)

Gambling debts and talk of ending it all: Should I intervene? By Cary Tennis
I barely know this guy, but he seems to be hinting at suicide. (10/13/2008)

Friends don't let friends talk fat Kate Harding
The Tri Delta sorority is sponsoring a five-day awareness effort to help women understand the damaging impact of "fat talk." (10/13/2008)

"The Bodyguard" meets "Thelma and Louise" Kate Harding
Hollywood needs to get in touch with female bodyguards Jacquie Davis and Helen Cliffe, like, yesterday. (10/13/2008)

Hard times at the bottom of the Bush economy By Dan Hoyle
From a tent city in Reno to a drug dealer's block in Detroit, I saw how Republican rule has hit those living on the American fringe. (10/13/2008)

Blood in the water in North Carolina By Mike Madden
Republican Sen. Liddy Dole may be a goner, and John McCain is in trouble in a state the GOP hasn't lost since 1976. What happened? (10/13/2008)

The Goldberg Theorem: Dow skyrockets due to likely Obama victory Glenn Greenwald
Last week, several right-wing geniuses claimed that the Dow was plummeting due to investor fears of an Obama win. (10/13/2008)

"Great American Hypocrites": The paperback Glenn Greenwald
The GOP has only one tactic it uses to win elections -- tribal warfare combined with character smears -- and one sees that this year as vividly as ever. (10/13/2008)

How John McCain could still win By Walter Shapiro
The odds are long for McCain, but this is no time for Democrats to embrace irrational exuberance. Here are four ways McCain might be able to turn it around. (10/13/2008)

"McCain-Palin Tradition" Alex Koppelman
Hank Williams Jr. records a new song on behalf of John McCain and Sarah Palin, and gets in a slam on the "left-wing liberal media." (10/13/2008)

McCain advisor: Obama crowds just as ugly Mark Follman
Confronted about the rage at recent McCain rallies, Steve Schmidt cites vicious cries at Obama events — but no one seems to have heard about them. (10/13/2008)

McCain: Lewis' comments "stopped me in my tracks" Alex Koppelman
John McCain says he was shocked by John Lewis' criticism of his campaign, but so far his response is just to attack the civil rights leader. (10/13/2008)

"My friends, we've got them just where we want them" Alex Koppelman
In a speech delivered Monday, John McCain assessed the state of the race, and sounded optimistic -- Bill Kristol isn't so sure, though. (10/13/2008)

Levi Johnston speaks Alex Koppelman
In an AP interview, Bristol Palin's fiancé says the two "were planning on getting married a long time ago with or without the kid." (10/13/2008)

Economic illiteracy from the WSJ Alex Koppelman
The paper's latest editorial tries to debunk Barack Obama's claims about his tax plans, but makes a laughable assertion in doing so. (10/13/2008)

Foley's successor has scandal of his own Alex Koppelman
Florida Democratic Rep. Tim Mahoney apparently paid more than $120,000 to a former mistress on his staff whom he fired after she broke off the affair. (10/13/2008)

John McCain's own ACORN connection Gabriel Winant
McCain's campaign has been attacking Barack Obama for his ties to the organization, but in 2006 the Republican attended an ACORN-sponsored event. (10/13/2008)

Palin confuses supporters for protesters Andrew Burmon
When people at a Virginia rally began chanting "Louder, louder," Sarah Palin responded with a comeback intended for hecklers. (10/13/2008)

Get the hook! King Kaufman
Playoff managers are letting their starting pitchers stay in and get thrashed while huge, rested, effective bullpens watch. (10/13/2008)

Bears squib themselves King Kaufman
Lovie Smith opts for the old "Let's give them great field position" play, and the Falcons get a win at the gun. (10/13/2008)

The Obama middle-class rescue plan Andrew Leonard
While McCain dithers, Obama swoops in with a multi-pronged bailout for Main Street. (10/13/2008)

Wall Street: Three cheers for socialism Andrew Leonard
Driven to ecstasy by news of worldwide bank nationalizations, the investor class celebrates. The Dow surges. (10/13/2008)

A Nobel Prize for Paul Krugman Andrew Leonard
The Al Gore of partisan economics? Pshaw. He deserved this award, whether or not he was right about Republican economics. (10/13/2008)

German chatbot almost passes the Turing Test Cyrus Farivar
"Elbot" fools 25 percent of judges. (10/13/2008)

Dow rises 936. Happy days are here again? Andrew Leonard
Don't be fooled. Investors are delirious because there is a plan to fix the banking system. But nothing is fixed, yet (10/13/2008)

Company gives computers to its employees -- for keeps Cyrus Farivar
Florida-based Citrix Systems offers a $2,100 stipend. (10/13/2008)

I Like to Watch By Heather Havrilesky
He's got Bette Davis eyes! CBS's "Eleventh Hour," NBC's "My Own Worst Enemy" and ABC's "Life on Mars" bring us soulful-eyed leading men who kick ass and take names as the world falls apart! (10/12/2008)

Opus By Berkeley Breathed
Where will Opus' final paradise be? (10/12/2008)

Boys' night out: "The Politico guys," Rove's top disciple and how our press corps works Glenn Greenwald
The relationship between Politico's Jonathan Martin and Tim Griffin burgeons into a close and mutually beneficial friendship. (10/12/2008)

Virginia GOP Chairman claims "connection between Obama and bin Laden" Glenn Greenwald
Reporters who are minimizing and dismissing the McCain campaign's uniquely dangerous smears are aiding and abetting those efforts. (10/12/2008)

Bill Kristol in a nutshell Glenn Greenwald
Last week, the NYT columnist urged the McCain campaign to attack Obama's character. With Obama rising, today he called the campaign "stupid" and "pathetic" for doing just that. (10/12/2008)

Rick Davis: The last 8 years encapsulated Glenn Greenwald
McCain's campaign manager: Troopergate report found "no violations of any kinds of laws or ethics rules." The report: Palin "abused her power by violating" Alaska law (10/12/2008)

Quote of the day Alex Koppelman
When David Axelrod and Rick Davis -- top strategists for the Obama and McCain campaigns, respectively -- met on "Fox News Sunday," it got personal. (10/12/2008)

The "L" word Alex Koppelman
Are Democrats headed for a landslide in November? McClatchy thinks so, and Republicans are going on the record with their worries about John McCain's campaign. (10/13/2008)

Palin booed at Flyers game Alex Koppelman
Philadelphia fans played to type, raising the question -- again -- of why the McCain camp thought it would be a good idea for Sarah Palin to drop the ceremonial puck. (10/12/2008)

Critics' Picks
What you need to see, read, do this week: Indie rock for Barack, a time capsule of late-'80s bohemia, a peek at other people's diaries. (10/11/2008)

Dishonor on the campaign trail
Joan Walsh on the dark tenor of the McCain-Palin campaign. (10/11/2008)

Don't call it mumblecore Andrew O'Hehir
Ultra-indie American film grows up in a hurry with Joe Swanberg and Greta Gerwig's erotic, wrenching relationship drama "Nights and Weekends." (10/11/2008)

Hillary Duff doesn't think you're totally gay Sarah Hepola
In a new PSA, the pop tart schools a few teen girls on the poison of that ubiquitous slang, "It's so gay." (10/11/2008)

Can a girl sexually abuse herself? Tracy Clark-Flory
A 15-year-old faces child porn charges after distributing naked self-portraits. (10/11/2008)

Sarah Palin: The view from Alaska By Nick Jans
Amid "Troopergate" and other government scandals, including killing wolf pups, an Alaskan writer explains why the Palin phenomenon rings hollow in his home state. (10/11/2008)

John McCain's dishonorable campaign Joan Walsh
Finally, he kinda sorta challenges supporters who are sliming Barack Obama. (10/11/2008)

TNR's Michael Crowley: McCain lynch mobs are no different than Bush critics Glenn Greenwald
The modern Beltway journalist compulsively asserts equivalencies between each side without regard to whether they are actually the same. (10/11/2008)

John Lewis: McCain, Palin "sowing seeds of hatred and division" Alex Koppelman
Discussing the Republican campaign, the civil rights icon invokes the memory of George Wallace's rallies. (10/11/2008)

McCain camp responds to Troopergate report Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin denies that she abused her power, while a campaign spokeswoman derides the investigation as partisan. (10/11/2008)

Has Rezko started talking? Alex Koppelman
The real estate developer, who was closely tied to Barack Obama, was convicted this summer -- he's likely talking about other politicians, however. (10/11/2008)

"Greatest film ever" or a cream cake? Andrew O'Hehir
Mocked on initial release and long unavailable, Max Ophüls' wide-screen spectacle "Lola Montès" returns in a lustrous restoration. So what's the big deal? (10/10/2008)

A hooker makeover?
Tracy Clark-Flory responds to a new Dutch plan to curb prostitution. (10/10/2008)

Mark Chryson packs heat
Former Alaskan Independence Party chairman Mark Chryson on Sarah Palin, the New World Order and Abraham Lincoln. (10/10/2008)

"Happy-Go-Lucky" By Stephanie Zacharek
Sally Hawkins gives the finest performance of the year in Mike Leigh's intimate masterpiece. (10/10/2008)

"Body of Lies" By Stephanie Zacharek
Russell and Leo team up in this overly intricate indictment of the war on terror. (10/10/2008)

Bateman: Barack Obama on Bill Ayers
"We've been seeing some pretty over-the-top attacks coming out of the McCain campaign." (10/10/2008)

"The Wrestler" By Stephanie Zacharek
Mickey Rourke gives a knockout performance as a nearly washed-up wrestling star. (10/10/2008)

WayLay By Carol Lay
Jill wonders if her trip to rescue Steve has been for nothing. (10/10/2008)

Saving hookers with high fashion? Tracy Clark-Flory
A Dutch town has decided to help prostitutes off the streets, one makeover at a time. (10/10/2008)

I believe in UFOs. Am I crazy? By Cary Tennis
My daughter saw one and I looked into it, and I found there's something to it! (10/10/2008)

Sex writing goes limp Tracy Clark-Flory
Loads of columns have been axed -- does sex no longer sell? (10/10/2008)

Which Gossip Girl is most like Obama? Amy Benfer
Glossy magazines for teen girls are slipping in politics along with the lip gloss. (10/10/2008)

Meet Sarah Palin's radical right-wing pals By Max Blumenthal and David Neiwert
Extremists Mark Chryson and Steve Stoll helped launch Palin's political career in Alaska, and in return had influence over policy. "Her door was open," says Chryson -- and still is. (10/10/2008)

Why we're losing in Afghanistan By Anand Gopal
Corrupt government and the U.S.'s mismanaged "surge" strategy have led to the Taliban's powerful resurgence in Afghanistan. (10/10/2008)

Salon Radio: ACLU's Jonathan Hafetz on Guantanamo cases Glenn Greenwald
Why is the Bush administration continuing to imprison 17 detainees in Guantánamo who it acknowledges are innocent? And what is the latest on the president's power to imprison U.S. citizens as "enemy combatants"? (10/10/2008)

The Right and mainstream America: a universe apart Glenn Greenwald
New polls conclusively show that the desperate smears of Obama -- along with increased exposure to Sarah Palin -- are backfiring on John McCain. (10/10/2008)

The federal government should go on a spending spree By Joe Conason
Nothing expresses McCain's ignorance of basic economics like his call to freeze expenditures. Only massive government investment can help us now. (10/10/2008)

Under the big top Andrew Burmon
The McCain camp is trying to portray the Troopergate investigation as a circus. (10/10/2008)

"Puck you, Palin!" Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin is scheduled to drop the puck at an upcoming Philadelphia Flyers game; one Web site wants fans to greet her with that chant. (10/10/2008)

Guess who called U.S. troops "thugs" Gabriel Winant
Imagine the stink if anyone with less military credibility than Gen. David Petraeus -- or worse, a Democrat -- had described American soldiers this way? (10/10/2008)

Another Ayers ad Alex Koppelman
This time, the McCain campaign says it really will run a spot linking Barack Obama to the former Weather Underground member. (10/10/2008)

Finally, a chance to vote for Osama Alex Koppelman
One New York county mistakenly lists "Barack Osama" on hundreds of absentee ballots. (10/10/2008)

McCain co-chairman questions Obama's drug use Vincent Rossmeier
In another attack, former Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating raises the Democratic nominee's admitted drug use and calls him a "guy of the street." (10/10/2008)

"John likes to do all his communicating via carrier pigeon" Alex Koppelman
Betty White, of "The Golden Girls," brings a little humor to the campaign. (10/10/2008)

Christopher Buckley endorses Obama Gabriel Winant
The son of the founding father of the modern conservative movement has jumped ship on McCain. (10/10/2008)

Troopergate report released Alex Koppelman
After hours of deliberations, Alaska's legislative council voted unanimously to release the report of the investigation into Sarah Palin's firing of the state's public safety commissioner. (10/11/2008)

Report: Palin abused her power Alex Koppelman
The investigator looking into Sarah Palin's firing of Alaska's public safety commissioner comes up with one conclusion that will make the McCain camp cringe, but another that will help them. (10/11/2008)

NFL Week 6: Playoff picks King Kaufman
Baseball playoffs, that is. In other words: They're still playing football? And: What? Hockey? (10/10/2008)

ALCS: Why not the Rays? King Kaufman
The Red Sox have their hands full with Tampa Bay, whose 31-win improvement was no fluke. (10/10/2008)

Early MVP favorite: Luck King Kaufman
Some key plays in the Phillies' Game 1 win over the Dodgers showed what a huge role chance plays in a short series. (10/10/2008)

The new improved Paulson plan Andrew Leonard
The U.S. government will become the investor of last resort. Get ready, America: You're about to own Wall Street (10/11/2008)

Can you hear the sound of the economy stopping? Andrew Leonard
Grain shipments are stranded in port as international trade gets a credit check. (10/10/2008)

The sun never sets on a global panic Andrew Leonard
Asian and European markets follow New York's stumbling footsteps. Can the world leaders now meeting in Washington make a difference? (10/10/2008)

Obama drops nearly $2 mil on prime-time TV airtime Cyrus Farivar
He uses new media outlets to buy time on old media. (10/10/2008)

Wall Street's crazy day Andrew Leonard
Friday's stock market zigs and zags were a Rorschach blot for how investors see the economy. Despair, joy, gloom, euphoria. Can we go home now? (10/10/2008)

Criminals use the Internet too Cyrus Farivar
Or, why online-presence Web 2.0 sites won't increase your likelihood of getting robbed (10/10/2008)

Daytime TV gets political
Rebecca Traister reflects on a new trend in daytime television. (10/09/2008)

Bateman: McCain's healthcare fix
His plan? "Let's do a lot of things!" (10/09/2008)

Google's Vulcan death grip By Scott Rosenberg
Is Google the Mr. Spock of the Internet -- all head, no heart? A new book wonders if the very things that made the company great will bring it down. (10/09/2008)

Tom the Dancing Bug By Ruben Bolling
The Grapes of Wrath, 2008: How will our generation handle a Great Depression? (10/09/2008)

I graduated, and I'm bored with beer pong, '80s playlists and Judd Apatow. So what's next? By Cary Tennis
I'm not sure I want to spend the next 10 years doing bong hits and playing video games. Nor do I want to join a book discussion group. (10/09/2008)

How the election ate daytime television By Rebecca Traister
Why talk shows like "The View" are showcasing some of the most sophisticated (and mind-numbingly stupid) conversations about the presidential race. (10/09/2008)

Your daily Palin Judy Berman
Madonna plays pundit, Paris praises the candidate's "hot bod" and a new blowup doll surprises exactly no one. (10/09/2008)

Goofus and Gallant Kate Harding
Elle's Women in Hollywood event pays tribute to successful businesswomen -- and baby-addled new mommies! (10/09/2008)

It can't hurt to ask Kate Harding
Inspired by a book about women's reluctance to negotiate, a blogger sets out to ask for something every day for a year. (10/09/2008)

Todd Palin's testimony
In a sworn statement, Sarah Palin's husband declares his innocence in Troopergate, while admitting repeated efforts to get the state trooper at the heart of the scandal. (10/09/2008)

Going for broke in Pennsylvania By Mike Madden
McCain is redoubling efforts against Obama in this key electoral battleground, where the Philly factor could be decisive. (10/09/2008)

Dan Balz's corrupted journalistic "balance" Glenn Greenwald
The attempt to equate "character attacks" as coming from "both sides" in the campaign is not "balance"; it's just false. (10/09/2008)

Major shock: Eavesdropping powers abused without oversight Glenn Greenwald
Two NSA linguists disclose that hundreds of innocent Americans had their private, intimate telephone calls recorded and transcribed by Bush's illegal spying program. (10/09/2008)

Quote of the day Alex Koppelman
The crowds at John McCain's rallies are mad as hell, and they're not going to take it anymore. (10/09/2008)

"His name says it all" Alex Koppelman
A liberal blogger in Ohio gets video of audience members at a McCain-Palin rally worried that Barack Obama might really be a terrorist. (10/09/2008)

McCain camp releases Ayers ad Alex Koppelman
The latest Web ad from John McCain's campaign uses former Weather Underground member Bill Ayers to attack Barack Obama. (10/09/2008)

Todd Palin gives his side of Troopergate Alex Koppelman
Palin's written response to an investigator's questions paints a picture of a man obsessed with his former brother-in-law. (10/09/2008)

Shades of Mark Penn? Vincent Rossmeier
A McCain spokeswoman said she wasn't going to talk about Barack Obama's association with Bill Ayers -- and then did just that. (10/09/2008)

Another look at the ACORN furor Alex Koppelman
The right is trying to link the organization to Barack Obama, but the claims of voter fraud and the facts don't really match up. (10/09/2008)

A disturbing sign about Obama Vincent Rossmeier
A billboard in West Plains, Mo., depicts Barack Obama in a turban. (10/09/2008)

The hot A-11 offense's female cousin King Kaufman
Piedmont High's all-eligible scheme is the talk of football, but a coach in a women's pro league says he's been running it for three years. (10/09/2008)

NLCS preview: Dodgers vs. Phillies King Kaufman
Manny Ramirez leads a whole new L.A. against scorching Philadelphia in a series that looks remarkably even. (10/09/2008)

Laissez-faire: Rest in peace Andrew Leonard
Oh what the heck: Let's just nationalize the banks and get it over with. Sure, says the Treasury. (10/09/2008)

New GeoEye satellite to improve Google Maps to 50 cm resolution Cyrus Farivar
You'll now be able to easily spot a car. (10/09/2008)

Coping with a crazy-making economy Andrew Leonard
Crashing stock markets and imploding banks aren't so great for the mental digestion. But we'll get through it. (10/09/2008)

Return of the Long Depression Andrew Leonard
Risky mortgages, a rising new industrial power across the ocean, and banks unwilling to lend to each other. In 1873. (10/09/2008)

Dow disaster -- down nearly 700 points Andrew Leonard
Panic rules: The Dow Jones Industrial Average closes under 8,600. (10/09/2008)

Palin's e-mail hacker indicted, to be kept offline Cyrus Farivar
How do the feds prevent someone from using the Internet? (10/09/2008)

"RocknRolla" By Stephanie Zacharek
Thugs, lowlifes and a bang-bang sex scene vie for attention in Guy Ritchie's latest mobster movie. (10/08/2008)

Torture porn, made beautiful Andrew O'Hehir
Pasolini's "Salò" blends fascism, de Sade and upscale art cinema into the most notorious film in the medium's history. Watch it at home! (10/08/2008)

Bateman: "I'll get Osama bin Laden, my friends"
If McCain has known how to get him this whole time, don't you think maybe he should have told Bush and the Army about it? (10/08/2008)

"The Wettest County in the World" By Louis Bayard
Bootlegging brothers, get-rich-quick schemes and a sensational murder trial make "The Wettest County in the World" a riveting read. (10/08/2008)

The K Chronicles By Keith Knight
Life's little victories -- new-parent style! (10/08/2008)

South Dakota abortion ban 2.0 Lynn Harris
Now with totally untenable "exceptions!" (10/08/2008)

OK, I get it, my husband's a verbal abuser By Cary Tennis
It's taken me a long time to accept what my therapist has been pushing at -- but I think I'm ready to act in my own interest. (10/08/2008)

FDA: Stop the birth control lies! Tracy Clark-Flory
Yaz is sold as a cure for PMS, but it's not -- and drug regulators aren't amused. (10/08/2008)

2012: Year of the woman? Lynn Harris
Could four more years bring us nine more female candidates for POTUS? (10/08/2008)

A debate for sobering times By Walter Shapiro
With the economy nose-diving, McCain did not achieve the surge he needed, while Obama looked masterly as the candidate of reassurance. (10/09/2008)

A new big lie by the GOP Joan Walsh
Poor minority people caused the mortgage crisis. No, really. (10/09/2008)

"That one?" Joan Walsh
Has McCain lost it? (10/09/2008)

This town hall didn't help John McCain Joan Walsh
The struggling Republican looked as cranky and erratic as he does in harsh Obama ads. (10/09/2008)

Sean Hannity, Robert Gibbs and anti-Semitism: How to go on Fox News Glenn Greenwald
Over the weekend, Sean Hannity hosted a "documentary" on Obama in reliance on a notorious, deranged Jew hater -- a fact that an Obama spokesman puts to good use. (10/08/2008)

Nobody's dummy By Camille Paglia
Liberals underestimate Sarah Palin's vitality and -- yes -- smarts at their own peril. Plus: Obama's presidential air, Biden's condescending mugging, feminism's lost sisters. (10/08/2008)

Juicing up the ticket By Garrison Keillor
Dishonest, cynical men put forward Sarah Palin for national office, but the truth emerges: The lady is talking freely about matters she has never thought about. (10/08/2008)

Palin's first press conference -- sort of Vincent Rossmeier
During an impromptu chat with reporters on her campaign plane, Sarah Palin attacks Barack Obama's association with Bill Ayers again. (10/08/2008)

Since when are poor people allowed to vote? Alex Koppelman
Some conservatives are up in arms about get-out-the-vote efforts in Ohio. (10/08/2008)

Palin's Ayers attack hurts both Obama and McCain Alex Koppelman
After viewing Palin's invocation of the former Weatherman, voters had a lower opinion of the Democratic nominee -- but McCain took a hit too. (10/08/2008)

Cindy McCain goes after Obama Andrew Burmon
The wife of the Republican nominee brings up her son's military service as she attacks Barack Obama. (10/08/2008)

Again, post-debate polls give it to Obama Alex Koppelman
The Democratic ticket has now come away with the victory in all three debates held so far. (10/08/2008)

Obama camp releases post-debate attack ad Alex Koppelman
The latest spot from the Democratic campaign uses footage from Tuesday's debate to criticize John McCain's health are plan. (10/08/2008)

Latest McCain ad repeats dubious "most liberal" tag Alex Koppelman
A new anti-Obama spot implies that the Democrat is lying when he disputes a list ranking him as the Senate's most liberal member in 2007. (10/08/2008)

McCain goes completely negative Alex Koppelman
A study of the presidential campaigns' spending on TV advertising shows that all of the McCain camp's money is going to negative or contrast ads. (10/08/2008)

All the world's a stage Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin went back to Sean Hannity's show, this time with John McCain in tow. What resulted wasn't an interview -- just theater. (10/09/2008)

"Non-prospect" marries, changes teams King Kaufman
Blogger-pitcher Dirk Hayhurst has an eventful week, getting hitched, waived by the Padres and inked by the Blue Jays. (10/08/2008)

Make the LCS best-of-5 too King Kaufman
The short format of the divisional round makes it flukey, but that's a good thing. And off days are not. (10/08/2008)

The fatal flaw in McCain's mortgage plan Andrew Leonard
Untangling the mess created by mortgage-backed securities and their derivatives will be complicated and very, very expensive. (10/08/2008)

McCain's plan to overpay mortgage lenders Andrew Leonard
Let taxpayers take the hit, while lenders get a big break (10/08/2008)

Zooming to the future Cyrus Farivar
What the cars we buy say about our society. (10/08/2008)

Can a global rate cut stop the bleeding? Andrew Leonard
After a night of market carnage in Asia, interest rate cuts are the new world order of the day. But so far, investors are unimpressed (10/08/2008)

National Research Council on data mining for terrorists Cyrus Farivar
"No invasion of privacy is justified if the program doesn't work." (10/08/2008)

Bateman: We're not gonna let John McCain distract us
Or hoodwink you, or bamboozle you, or run the okey-doke on you! (10/07/2008)

A suicide in the family By Laura Miller
Two gripping memoirs explore the guilt and confusion left behind when a relative kills himself. (10/07/2008)

This Modern World By Tom Tomorrow
What will those crazy liberals think of next? (10/07/2008)

Bear facts about John McCain By Katharine Mieszkowski
Despite his lip service to science, the GOP candidate continues to ridicule a major study of America's grizzly bears. (10/07/2008)

I'm 17 and I can't figure things out By Cary Tennis
I don't know what my friends are talking about, and I don't know what my problem is. (10/07/2008)

"She blew me off, is the technical term" Sarah Hepola
Vice-presidential debate moderator Gwen Ifill offers her take on Sarah Palin's performance last week. (10/07/2008)

Could you be a hockey mom? Catherine Price
According to Nielsen, it requires less than you might think. (10/07/2008)

If I became a man, would you pay me more? Catherine Price
A new study looks at wage discrimination among transgender people -- and finds that becoming a woman might not be the best thing to do for your career. (10/07/2008)

Everything's coming up Tina Fey Judy Berman
As though winning an Emmy and saving "Saturday Night Live" weren't enough, Sarah Palin's hilarious doppelganger is writing a book. (10/07/2008)

The low road to the White House By Walter Shapiro
As the gloves come off in the presidential race, John McCain seems ever more willing to dispense with past claims to personal honor. (10/07/2008)

The GOP goes back to its ugly roots By Gary Kamiya
McCain is resurrecting the GOP's oldest tactic: Smearing Obama as a scary black terrorist sympathizer. But he may meet the same fate as Barry Goldwater. (10/07/2008)

Dick Morris: A sign of the times Glenn Greenwald
Two weeks ago, the Fox News pundit hailed McCain's campaign suspension as "brilliant." Today, he blames it for McCain's plummeting poll numbers. (10/07/2008)

Sarah Palin's museum of trite right-wing tactics: 1980-2008 Glenn Greenwald
The attacks on Obama grow more unhinged and more counter-productive in direct proportion. (10/07/2008)

The Palins' un-American activities By David Talbot
Imagine if the Obamas had hooked up with a violently anti-American group in league with the government of Iran. (10/07/2008)

Palin faking her accent? You betcha Thomas Schaller
Check out this video montage of the Alaska governor turning her accent on and off. (10/07/2008)

Jerome Corsi arrested in Africa Thomas Schaller
The author obsessed with Barack Obama is taken into custody in Kenya. (10/07/2008)

The strategically erratic strategist Thomas Schaller
The Los Angeles Times profiles top McCain adviser Steve Schmidt. (10/07/2008)

McCain-Obama, Debate 2 Thomas Schaller
What to expect from Nashville's town hall-style event tonight. (10/07/2008)

The Fed and commercial paper funds Thomas Schaller
If all of this bailout talk is confusing, just listen. (10/07/2008)

Senate Majority Leader Hillary Clinton Thomas Schaller
The National Journal reflects on Harry Reid's future as the Senate's top dog. (10/07/2008)

Rudy gets a smackdown Thomas Schaller
Obama campaign spokesman slams him for invoking Ayers. (10/07/2008)

Quote of the day Vincent Rossmeier
Back in 1991, John McCain offered a prescient take on his involvement in the Keating Five scandal. (10/07/2008)

The 269-269 scenario Thomas Schaller
Gaming out a tied Electoral College. (10/07/2008)

McCain-Palin rallies turning ugly Justin Jouvenal
The Republicans' turn to the negative is prompting some crowd reactions that could backfire on the candidates. (10/07/2008)

McCain has his own unsavory links Gabriel Winant
In the 1980s, the Republican presidential nominee sat on the board of a group that was involved in Iran-Contra and had ties to neo-Nazis. (10/07/2008)

Pre-whupping McCain's arse Thomas Schaller
The Obama team is firing on all cylinders right now. (10/07/2008)

McCain v. Obama, the rematch Alex Koppelman
As the two presidential candidates prepare to debate again, here's what to expect. (10/08/2008)

Live blogging: McCain looks at Obama! Alex Koppelman
After a handshake, the two candidates go to their corners and then the debate begins -- on Barack Obama's turf. (10/08/2008)

Live blogging: McCain keeps swinging, but his punches aren't landing Alex Koppelman
If he's going to continue to attack, John McCain needs to get voters to connect with him, or he's in trouble. (10/08/2008)

Live blogging: What was the question, again? Alex Koppelman
Both candidates start getting away from the actual questions to attack and counterattack on taxes. (10/08/2008)

Live blogging: Missed opportunities on energy issue Alex Koppelman
Neither candidate was able to shine during a discussion of energy independence and the environment. (10/08/2008)

For McCain, it's all about earmarks Mike Madden
At the second presidential debate, John McCain ramps up the earmarks rhetoric. But that's not really the federal government's biggest budget problem. (10/08/2008)

Live blogging: What Obama doesn't understand Alex Koppelman
Foreign policy may be seen as John McCain's strong suit, but Barack Obama was the one who performed best during tonight's discussion of those issues. (10/08/2008)

Live blogging: I'm just hired help here Alex Koppelman
Tom Brokaw's outburst was the most exciting part of the foreign policy discussion during tonight's debate, at least once Iraq was left behind. (10/08/2008)

Tie goes to the runner Alex Koppelman
Neither candidate ran away with the debate, but Barack Obama still seemed to come away as a pretty clear winner. (10/08/2008)

Red Sox vs. Rays in ALCS King Kaufman
Varitek ruled down by contact, so his fumble on a key tag play doesn't count and the Angels join the White Sox in defeat. (10/07/2008)

Another day, another radical Fed plan Andrew Leonard
The bailout is so last week -- Bernanke and friends are plotting a new dramatic government "rescue" attempt (10/07/2008)

Another step toward nationalizing the finance sector Andrew Leonard
Reactions to the Fed's plan to lend directly to businesses. Plus: Rachel Maddow interviews Paul Krugman. (10/07/2008)

Prelude to the debate: Dow falls 508 Andrew Leonard
Character assassination may lose its appeal after two very bad days for Wall Street and Main Street. (10/07/2008)

A Fannie Freddie debate primer Andrew Leonard
Here's what you need to know when John McCain starts talking about the mortgage mess (10/07/2008)

Krugman: "We are all Brazilians now" Andrew Leonard
Balance sheet contagion rules the global economy. "Interdependence" is becoming a dirty word. (10/07/2008)

Doc Hudson vs. Che Guevara Andrew O'Hehir
Paul Newman's crusty, kid-friendly, oddly classic final role (as a car). Plus: Film-world eggheads battle over Soderbergh's unconventional "Che." (10/06/2008)

Big Think: Lisa Randall on how some things will be known
The theoretical physicist discusses her work on understanding extra dimensions of space and string theory. (10/06/2008)

Bateman: The V.P. debate, Part 2
What is Sarah Palin's Achilles' heel? (10/06/2008)

Ask Pablo By Pablo Päster
How can I help save the bees? (10/06/2008)

There's gold in them melting glaciers By Elizabeth Svoboda
Is it wrong to make a buck on the end of the world? (10/06/2008)

I fell for a younger guy and now my head is spinning By Cary Tennis
I'm a wife, a mother and a doctoral candidate. I'm not the kind of person this happens to. What the hell am I doing? (10/06/2008)

Our vaccination double standard Tracy Clark-Flory
Female immigrants -- but not citizens -- are now required to get an HPV vaccination. (10/06/2008)

Let's hear it for Harald zur Hausen!
Virologist who discovered HPV shares Nobel Prize in physiology or medicine. (10/06/2008)

R.I. teens learn about dating violence Kate Harding
A new law requires Rhode Island schools to include information about dating violence in the curriculum. (10/06/2008)

The joystick of sex By Tracy Clark-Flory
From the prostitutes of "Grand Theft Auto" to cutting-edge teledildonics, sex has fueled the gaming industry, as the author of "Porn & Pong" explains. (10/06/2008)

One-eyed modesty Tracy Clark-Flory
A Saudi cleric calls for Muslim women to cover all but one eye. (10/06/2008)

Admiring Palin (and hating her for it) Tracy Clark-Flory
Lisa Belkin says the politician made her feel like a good mom -- and then a guilty mom. (10/06/2008)

Botox soothes women's economic fears Kate Harding
As the economy goes south, cosmetics sales are going up. (10/06/2008)

"I find her offensive" By Tristram Korten
John McCain was making a bid for South Florida's Jewish voters, a crucial demographic in a purple state. But then he chose Sarah Palin as a running mate. (10/06/2008)

Obama's grass-roots battalion vs. McCain's ragtag platoon By Walter Shapiro
In Wisconsin's blue-collar Paper Valley, the Democrats are banking on an outpouring of volunteers while the Republicans are left with fear itself. (10/06/2008)

How McCain could tilt the Supreme Court By Erwin Chemerinsky
If elected, McCain might well push the court far to the right -- with dramatic consequences for abortion rights, sexual privacy, diversity in schools and more. (10/06/2008)

Ugly time Joan Walsh
How low will McCain-Palin go? (10/06/2008)

Springsteen: "I want my country back" Joan Walsh
Supporting Obama, the rock legend takes a swing-state tour, once again. (10/06/2008)

John McCain's unprecedentedly ugly speech today Glenn Greenwald
The increasingly petty and ugly attacks on Barack Obama by a desperate, dying movement are a microcosm of the last eight years. (10/06/2008)

Salon Radio: Jane Hamsher & Markos Moulitsas Glenn Greenwald
A new campaign to recruit and support primary challengers to Congressional incumbents, supported by a vast coalition, is unveiled today. (10/06/2008)

Quotes of the day Alex Koppelman
Two prominent strategists see dark times ahead for the McCain campaign. (10/06/2008)

McCain: "Who is the real Barack Obama?" Gabriel Winant
The Republican nominee makes an unusually harsh attack on his rival, and says he doesn't need lessons in telling the truth from "a Chicago politician." (10/06/2008)

Palin uses Ayers, Wright to attack Obama Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin isn't shying away from one line of attack that John McCain had previously condemned. (10/06/2008)

Virginia is for Obama lovers Alex Koppelman
Two new polls show Barack Obama leading John McCain by double digits in the state, which could seal the deal for Obama. (10/06/2008)

New McCain ad calls Obama "dishonorable" Alex Koppelman
As the campaign gets even more personal, the McCain campaign releases an ad falsely implying Obama slandered U.S. troops, and saying the Democrats are "too risky for America." (10/06/2008)

Seven agree to testify in Troopergate probe Alex Koppelman
A group of Alaska employees will stop challenging the subpoenas they were issued; Todd Palin, however, is still playing games. (10/06/2008)

Ken Blackwell's warning about voter fraud Alex Koppelman
The former secretary of state of Ohio, who has a shabby record when it comes to protecting the integrity of elections, is now lecturing others. (10/06/2008)

The return of Charles Keating Alex Koppelman
Barack Obama's campaign is fighting back against its opponent by bringing up a scandal from John McCain's past -- is it a smart move? (10/06/2008)

Senate picture looks rosy for Democrats Gabriel Winant
As Republicans face an across-the-board meltdown, is a filibuster-proof majority in the cards? (10/06/2008)

The real reason the Cubs lost: Scouting King Kaufman
Either that or it's because the Dodgers played better for three games. (10/06/2008)

NFL assumptions: Wrong again King Kaufman
Unless you saw Atlanta (3-2) over Green Bay (2-3) coming, you didn't see this season shaping up this way either. (10/06/2008)

Palin' around
Can you talk like a V.P. candidate? Members of Salon's Table Talk community take a crack, and do a heckuva job. (10/06/2008)

Global economy panic attack; Dow drops 500 Andrew Leonard
Bailout or no bailout, the U.S. stock market can't escape the economic pain sweeping the rest of the world (10/06/2008)

Mr. Megabank endorses Obama Andrew Leonard
Hugh McColl, the man who turned Charlotte, N.C., into a financial powerhouse, says the Democrat is the man for an economy in chaos. (10/06/2008)

CNN's iReport perpetrates false Steve Jobs rumor Cyrus Farivar
Thanks, citizen journalism! (10/06/2008)

Economic meltdown explained, satirized online Cyrus Farivar
Why isn't this required reading on Wall Street? (10/06/2008)

Wall Street shudders, again Andrew Leonard
What bailout? The Dow drops 740 as a financial panic sweeps the world. (10/06/2008)

A wild day on Wall Street Andrew Leonard
While stock prices gyrate, Lehman's Richard Fuld tells Congress no one expected housing prices to fall so fast and so far. Oh really? (10/06/2008)

I Like to Watch By Heather Havrilesky
Ex-wives on the verge of a nervous breakdown, from USA's "The Starter Wife" to Bravo's "Real Housewives of Atlanta" to NBC's "Kath & Kim." (10/05/2008)

Opus By Berkeley Breathed
Dreaming of three decades of adventures with women and love. (10/05/2008)

SNL on VP debate Joan Walsh
How would we get through this election without Tina Fey? (10/05/2008)

Madeleine Albright strikes back Joan Walsh
As Sarah Palin misquotes the former Secretary of State based on what she thought she read on a Starbucks cup. (10/05/2008)

Porn producer invokes the Bush/Yoo defense -- unsuccessfully Glenn Greenwald
Citizens who produce fictitious films depicting "humiliation" and "degradation" will be sent to prison. Government officials who do that in reality will be immunized. (10/05/2008)

GOP fallout from bailout vote
In Virginia, retiring Sen. Warner refuses to say he'll back Republican candidate Gilmore. (10/05/2008)

McCain-Palin go negative
Lagging in the polls, Republican candidates plan more attacks on Obama. (10/05/2008)

McCain's brother: N. Virginia "communist country"
Please ignore the goofy relatives pleads McCain campaign. (10/05/2008)

Rove sees Obama win
If election were held today, Republican strategist says Democrat would prevail. (10/05/2008)

HPV vaccine required for immigrants, not citizens
Tracy Clark-Flory responds to news that the vaccine is required for young women seeking to immigrate to the U.S. (10/04/2008)

Critics' Picks
What you need to see, read, do this week: Your favorite writers on their favorite states, audaciously hopeful music and a deliciously decadent box set. (10/04/2008)

From Cannes headliner to pay cable Andrew O'Hehir
Why is the exasperating and delightful "Pleasure of Being Robbed" -- a breakthrough American micro-indie about a charming female sociopath -- barely getting released? (10/04/2008)

NOW: No more "massage" ads Tracy Clark-Flory
Activists attempt to shut down amNewYork's "Feeling and Looking Good" ads. (10/04/2008)

A country in shambles, under GOP rule Glenn Greenwald
Efforts to blame Democrats for the country's deep woes assume deep stupidity on the part of the glorified Regular Voter. (10/04/2008)

The dumbing down of the GOP By Joe Conason
Why aren't more conservatives disgusted that their party nominated a person devoid of qualifications for the vice presidency (again)? (10/04/2008)

EPA to Americans: Drink rocket fuel! Katharine Mieszkowski
Feds refuse to regulate common toxin in drinking water. (10/04/2008)

Quote of the day: Palin on Obama Katharine Mieszkowski
Governor accuses Senator of "palling around with terrorists." (10/04/2008)

Queen Latifah to play Gwen Ifill
Betcha Saturday Night Live will mock the veep debate tonight. (10/04/2008)

"Blindness" By Stephanie Zacharek
Julianne Moore shines, others stumble through this extended metaphor on the condition of humanity. (10/03/2008)

"How to Lose Friends and Alienate People" By Mary Elizabeth Williams
Simon Pegg is utterly charming as a troublemaking British journalist in this celeb-media sendup. (10/03/2008)

"Rachel Getting Married" By Stephanie Zacharek
Jonathan Demme recaptures the ease and warmth of his early movies with this affecting take of a family wedding. (10/03/2008)

"Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist" By Stephanie Zacharek
Two bridge-and-tunnel kids knock about nocturnal New York in this leisurely, low-key movie. (10/03/2008)

Sarah Palin isn't the problem
Joan Walsh reminds us that it's time to focus on the man who chose Palin. (10/03/2008)

Bateman: Debating Palin
Our Founding Fathers were ... spinning in their graves when they heard I might become vice president. (10/03/2008)

Cats behaving badly By Douglas Wolk
"Achewood," Chris Onstad's hilarious online comic strip, translates perfectly into a book about male friendship and testosterone overload. (10/03/2008)

WayLay By Carol Lay
Jill finally finds Steve's spirit. (10/03/2008)

NYC Transit to women: Holla back, girls Kate Harding
A new subway ad campaign encourages women to report sexual harassment -- but we can't stop it alone. (10/03/2008)

What's missing from this election? Molly Ivins By Anne Lamott
The late buckaroo populist and freedom fighter would have had a ball with the insanity of this current news cycle. (10/03/2008)

I'm a singer -- but I drift from waitress job to waitress job By Cary Tennis
I don't know how to settle down. But I'm almost 30 and don't want to waste my life! (10/03/2008)

Joe Biden is made of testosterone and strong verbs Sarah Hepola
The media is piling on Sarah Palin after last night's debate, but all I can think about is her opponent. (10/03/2008)

Your daily Palin: Debate response edition Kate Harding
What people are saying about Thursday night's V.P. debate. (10/03/2008)

From Wall Street to street corner Judy Berman
After the economic crisis renders him jobless, a business analyst auctions off his "gay virginity." (10/03/2008)

Sarah Palin exceeds expectations -- and still loses By Mike Madden
Debating Joe Biden, Palin avoids another train wreck, delivering Republican talking points with robotic determination. But she also fails to convince undecided voters to stop their movement toward Obama. (10/03/2008)

How Palin played in Green Bay By Walter Shapiro
Republican debate watchers praised a "tough" and "witty" performance from the Alaskan governor, but on the whole were surprisingly subdued. (10/04/2008)

Don't call it a bailout By Mike Madden
The House learns its lesson, and with an eye toward Nov. 4, passes the Wall Street bailout -- er, rescue plan. (10/03/2008)

The fear and loathing of Wall Street By Steve Fraser
Once again, Wall Street is the place Americans love to hate. (10/03/2008)

It's all about McCain Joan Walsh
Sarah Palin became a laughingstock on the eve of the V.P. debate. But the GOP ticket's troubles start at the top. (10/03/2008)

How Sarah Palin blew it Joan Walsh
She asked for more vice-presidential power on the heels of Dick Cheney's abuse, and she failed to show simple decency when Biden referenced his family tragedy. (10/03/2008)

Salon Radio: L.A. Times' Tim Rutten on Ahmadinejad Glenn Greenwald
Is the U.S. failing to take the "Iranian threat" seriously enough, or is that threat being exaggerated and distorted? (10/03/2008)

The Word from Wasilla By Deirdre English and Gail Sheehy
Sarah Palin's Pentecostal supporters in Alaska hail her debate performance and her rise to the national stage as the work of God. (10/03/2008)

The death of GOP electoral tactics on the war Glenn Greenwald
Contrary to what the political establishment claimed all year, Americans still hate the war and hate the GOP position on it. (10/03/2008)

Quote of the day Alex Koppelman
Conservative columnist Charles Krauthammer all but concedes the election to Barack Obama. (10/03/2008)

McCain camp releases disingenuous ad on taxes Alex Koppelman
John McCain's latest spot repeats a previously debunked claim that Barack Obama "voted 94 times for higher taxes." (10/03/2008)

House approves bailout Alex Koppelman
The second time around, the House of Representatives voted in favor of the bailout plan. (10/03/2008)

Mason, Silverman compete for the Jewish vote Alex Koppelman
Two comedians square off in a battle that symbolizes this election's age gap. (10/03/2008)

Biden wins Alex Koppelman
The results are in, and it looks like voters think Joe Biden beat Sarah Palin handily in Thursday night's debate. (10/03/2008)

Bill O'Reilly vs. Barney Frank Alex Koppelman
Forget Biden-Palin, the real fireworks Thursday night came during a screaming match between O'Reilly and Frank. (10/03/2008)

Troopergate subpoenas upheld Alex Koppelman
A judge has refused to shut down the investigation into Sarah Palin's firing of Alaska's public safety commissioner, and now Todd Palin may testify. (10/03/2008)

Palin's debate flowchart Alex Koppelman
A satirical look at Sarah Palin's strategy for Thursday night's debate. (10/03/2008)

Palins release tax returns Alex Koppelman
After getting an extension on the deadline to do so, Sarah and Todd Palin have released their tax returns from the past two years. (10/03/2008)

Palin gets another crack at SCOTUS question Alex Koppelman
This time, Sarah Palin's able to recite a list of Supreme Court cases she disagrees with, but her reasoning still leaves something to be desired. (10/03/2008)

NFL Week 5: Debatable picks King Kaufman
The question is which team is ready to break out. The answer: Let me talk about my energy policy. (10/03/2008)

Ask the pilot By Patrick Smith
The plane is about to land, when all of a sudden the engines roar and it's climbing again. What's going on? (10/03/2008)

Message from the House: "You better pray" Andrew Leonard
House Majority Leader John Boehner says no matter how the bailout vote goes, we're going to need God's help (10/03/2008)

Microsoft doesn't matter anymore Cyrus Farivar
"Tickets" for Live Search? Huh? (10/03/2008)

The end of the Reagan revolution Andrew Leonard
The vote to bail out Wall Street marks the demise of deregulation's stranglehold over the American economy (10/03/2008)

The House votes for a bailout Andrew Leonard
Kicking and screaming, complaining all the way, the ayes have it (10/03/2008)

A debate question on jobs and the campaign Andrew Leonard
More bad news on the unemployment front: Is government part of the problem, or the solution? (10/03/2008)

Credit crisis, California-style Andrew Leonard
Annals of the financial panic of 2008: Schwarzenegger warns Paulson that the state may soon need an emergency $7 billion loan (10/03/2008)

McCain was right: Fire Chris Cox! Andrew Leonard
And Henry Paulson too, while we're at it. They made this mess, and they should pay for it. The New York Times has the evidence (10/03/2008)

UCLA study suggests most kids suffer from cyber-bullying Cyrus Farivar
And they don't tell their parents about it. (10/03/2008)

What would Jesus do, about the bailout? Andrew Leonard
A Christian news organization reports about the danger that illegal immigrants might get mortgage relief from the Paulson plan (10/03/2008)

Bateman: A detour for the Straight Talk Express?
More like the Straight Talk Express crashed into a school bus filled with lies and gaffes. (10/02/2008)

Desperation becomes her By Heather Havrilesky
"The Ex List" is like "Sex and the City" without the trustworthy friends, the cool clothes and the laughs. Is this a dramedy, or a cautionary tale? (10/02/2008)

Bill Maher vs. the "talking snake" Andrew O'Hehir
The HBO host and comedian talks about "Religulous," his onslaught against the religious idiocy that threatens to deliver America to Sarah Palin and her fellow "space god" worshipers. (10/02/2008)

A nation of conspiracy theorists can't be wrong By Louis Bayard
From miracle diets to creationism to rumors about the origins of 9/11, a new book traces our irrational love of misinformation. (10/02/2008)

Tom the Dancing Bug By Ruben Bolling
Maverick McCain vs. the collapsing economy. (10/02/2008)

A can't-lose debate strategy for Joe Biden By Joseph Romm
The Democratic V.P. candidate can put away Sarah Palin simply by prompting her to talk about energy and global warming. (10/02/2008)

My father was murdered by my former next-door neighbor -- and I'm supposed to just get over it? By Cary Tennis
I'm having a rough time; I'd like some justice and some peace. (10/02/2008)

Biden's difficult balance Catherine Price
Tonight's vice-presidential debate raises a tricky question for Joe Biden: How to beat Sarah Palin without coming off as a dick. (10/02/2008)

Today in Palin Catherine Price
Think it's wacky to claim that "living next to Canada" qualifies as foreign policy experience? Check out today's roundup. (10/02/2008)

Quote of the day Katharine Mieszkowski
Remembering Del Martin, lesbian pioneer and bride. (10/02/2008)

Sex with robots = feminism? Tracy Clark-Flory
A sex machine enthusiast says it's the "pornographic equivalent of third-wave feminism." (10/02/2008)

The big veep showdown By Walter Shapiro
She was outmatched by Katie Couric, but how will Sarah Palin fare against Joe Biden? The debate comes at a crucial time for the struggling McCain campaign. (10/02/2008)

How do you solve a problem like Sarah Palin? By Alex Koppelman and Gabriel Winant
The Alaska governor has become a drag on her ticket; strategists who've worked with vice presidents and hopefuls on both sides offer advice on how to relaunch the Palin brand. (10/02/2008)

The truth about that "liberal" against gay marriage By Jon B. Eisenberg
Posing as a "liberal Democrat" in the L.A. Times, David Blankenhorn endorsed a California initiative to ban gay marriage. His right-wing funders must be pleased. (10/02/2008)

The right's two-pronged religion of rage and self-pity Glenn Greenwald
The group with the most power persuades itself that it is weak, oppressed and treated with great unfairness. (10/02/2008)

Palin and the activist court Thomas Schaller
Maybe the reason Sarah Palin can't name Supreme Court cases she opposes is because the bench is so reactionary. (10/02/2008)

Corsi goes to Africa Thomas Schaller
Right-wing author heads to Kenya to investigate Obama's family and deliver $1,000 check to Obama's brother. (10/02/2008)

Palin: Master of the nonanswer Thomas Schaller
Former Alaska gubernatorial candidate Andrew Halcro pipes up with a useful Palin primer. (10/02/2008)

That's 18 in a row for Obama Thomas Schaller
The last 18 national or battleground state polls show the Democrat leading. (10/02/2008)

McCain is all smiles today Thomas Schaller
Steve Schmidt and Mark Salter must have dressed down the senator after his grumpy-old-man act in Des Moines. (10/02/2008)

Millions, billions, trillions Thomas Schaller
How John McCain capitalizes on the innumeracy of American voters. (10/02/2008)

Obama and the Jews Thomas Schaller
He loves them, he hates them … the story keeps changing. (10/02/2008)

Breaking: McCain bails on Michigan Thomas Schaller
The map for McCain to make it to the White House just shrunk a bit more. (10/02/2008)

McCain, Palin differ on privacy Alex Koppelman
When Sarah Palin flubbed her answer on a question about a right to privacy, she wasn't just breaking with the conservative movement but with her running mate as well. (10/02/2008)

Team Salon live-blogging Biden-Palin debate Thomas Schaller
Stay here for play-by-play and insightful commentary from Salon bloggers Thursday night. (10/02/2008)

Is Sarah Palin just playing dumb? Mike Madden
A few hours before the V.P. debate, Democrats point reporters to 2006 clips showing a poised, confident Sarah Palin in previous encounters. Will she surprise the world tonight? (10/02/2008)

Why you shouldn't break out the bubbly yet Alex Koppelman
With Barack Obama's striking advance in the polls, some people are already saying John McCain has little chance for a comeback, but it's still too early to celebrate. (10/03/2008)

Biden-Palin pre-game thoughts Thomas Schaller
Some final observations before the big matchup the world will be watching. (10/03/2008)

Live-blogging the debate, Part 1 Alex Koppelman
Joe Biden and Sarah Palin square off. (10/03/2008)

Live-blogging the debate, Part 2 Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin delivers the most predictable line of the night. (10/03/2008)

Live-blogging: The robot dance Alex Koppelman
Sarah Palin needs to loosen up, and fast. (10/03/2008)

Folksy Sarah Thomas Schaller
She throws those little words and phrases in there. (10/03/2008)

Live-blogging: Back to the future on Iraq Alex Koppelman
Looking for an argument about the war, Sarah Palin fell back on some old chestnuts, but they didn't serve her well. (10/03/2008)

Foreign policy shift Thomas Schaller
Palin should be shakier now but will probably just go on attack. (10/03/2008)

Iraq and Afghanistan Thomas Schaller
Biden got stuck at one point, but Palin is just too unserious. (10/03/2008)

Shout-outs and there ya go agin Thomas Schaller
She is really getting annoying and undermining her seriousness. (10/03/2008)

Biden's very sincere Thomas Schaller
Questions colleagues' judgment, not their motives. (10/03/2008)

TBS: The anti-Fox King Kaufman
Turner returns to postseason baseball coverage with its trademark sober, respectful approach to the game. (10/02/2008)

Wrigley Field: Tough room King Kaufman
Cubs fans to Ryan Dempster, who was fourth in the N.L. in ERA: What have you done for us lately? (10/02/2008)

Skype sells out to China Cyrus Farivar
New study reveals an extensive filtering and surveillance program. (10/02/2008)

The Senate votes for the bailout Andrew Leonard
By a 74-25 vote the Senate says yes to a $700 billion rescue plan for Wall Street. (10/02/2008)

Byron Dorgan's warning about risk Andrew Leonard
Ten years ago, the senator from North Dakota warned against repealing Glass-Steagall. His premonition came true. (10/02/2008)

Txteagle pays mobile phone users for short tasks Cyrus Farivar
MIT researcher turns to entrepreneurialism. (10/02/2008)

The big bailout squeeze Andrew Leonard
Another bad day for the economy, as unemployment jumps and credit gets tighter. Is a bad fix better than no fix at all? (10/02/2008)

Bushonomics, revisited Andrew Leonard
A quick review of the economic legacy of the man the New Yorker calls the worst president since Reconstruction. (10/02/2008)

What's so wrong about mass hara-kiri? Andrew Leonard
A reader makes a sharp observation. Plus: Joe Stiglitz doesn't like the bailout (10/02/2008)

Indie film's ultra-realist overdose Andrew O'Hehir
Sundance critics went wild for the lo-fi, wide-screen, Mississippi bleakness of "Ballast." But has American neorealism turned itself into audience kryptonite? (10/01/2008)

Bateman: George W. Bush on the troubled economy
"It matters little what path a bill takes to become law. What matters is that we get a law." (10/01/2008)

Uncurbed enthusiasm By Adam Baer
Veteran "Curb Your Enthusiasm" director Bob Weide talks about bringing his prickly brand of humor to the big screen with "How to Lose Friends and Alienate People." (10/01/2008)

Let's not pity Palin
Rebecca Traister on the importance of holding the V.P. pick accountable. (10/01/2008)

The K Chronicles By Keith Knight
Why would we reward the GOP for doing such a bad job? (10/01/2008)

Is breast cancer lurking in your family? Jessica Wakeman
A new PBS documentary explores the dreaded "BRCA" gene mutation, which is leading more and more women to get preventive double mastectomies. (10/01/2008)

Why am I crying all the time? By Cary Tennis
Grief has come over me in heavy, relentless waves. (10/01/2008)

Can the Chicago Cubs lose for winning? By Edward McClelland
For a century, the Cubs have based their identity on disappointment and defeat. So what happens if they actually win it all this year? (10/01/2008)

I can bring home a musk ox, fry it up in a pan Lynn Harris
Palin to Couric: I'm a feminist. (10/01/2008)

"First Black First Lady" Lynn Harris
I challenge you to get this out of your head. (10/01/2008)

Obama's Senate speech on the bailout
The candidate urges passage of the rescue bill "right now to prevent the possibility of a crisis turning into a catastrophe." (10/01/2008)

More blowback from the war on terror By Jennifer Daskal
The U.S.-backed Ethiopian military has secreted away scores of "suspects" -- including pregnant women and children -- and fueled anti-American rancor in Africa. (10/01/2008)

The voters are angry -- and don't know why By Walter Shapiro
What happens when the messy thing called democracy collides with the financial markets in full panic. (10/01/2008)

Wash Post's Pearlstein: Anyone opposing the bailout is ignorant Glenn Greenwald
"Thank God there is a mainstream media out there that actually does reporting and has people who understand things." (10/01/2008)

Salon Radio: David Cay Johnston on the bailout Glenn Greenwald
The Pulitzer Prize-winning NYT reporter discusses the uncritical panic created around the financial crisis and the role journalists have played in that. (10/01/2008)

Crash By Garrison Keillor
A day in which you've witnessed death takes on an aura of fragile loveliness. (10/01/2008)

Senate Democrats love Barack Obama Mike Madden
The candidate draws a big crowd -- at least from his own party -- for a floor speech supporting the Wall Street bailout plan. (10/01/2008)

McCain talks to gay paper, but doesn't say much Gabriel Winant
The Republican nominee kept his answers vague in a historic interview with the Washington Blade. (10/01/2008)

McCain gets testy Vincent Rossmeier
In an interview with the Des Moines Register, McCain shows flashes of his famous temper. (10/01/2008)

Senate votes yes on bailout Alex Koppelman
This time, there were no surprises, and the latest version of the bailout plan passed the Senate -- now it faces a tougher test in the House. (10/02/2008)

McCain and Obama cross paths in the Senate Mike Madden
As the Wall Street bailout passes, the presidential candidates have a brief encounter. (10/02/2008)

Return of the Mack Mike Madden
John McCain is expected to make his first vote since April 8, when the Senate takes up the Wall Street bailout tonight. Barack Obama will vote for the first time since July 9. (10/01/2008)

Shock: Conservatives preemptively claiming bias Alex Koppelman
A day before the vice-presidential debate, the right is questioning the objectivity of moderator Gwen Ifill. (10/01/2008)

Obama jumps ahead in three key states Alex Koppelman
The latest round of data from a respected pollster shows Barack Obama leading John McCain in Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania. (10/01/2008)

Another Palin-Couric debacle Alex Koppelman
Katie Couric interviews Sarah Palin yet again, and once again ends up with evasion and one truly puzzling answer. (10/01/2008)

McCain: I've gone to Palin for foreign policy advice Alex Koppelman
That whole being able to see Russia thing really is invaluable experience, apparently. (10/01/2008)

The Angels didn't get fat on the West King Kaufman
Their division rivals were weak, but L.A. was just as good against everyone else. Plus: Who did get fat on their division? (10/01/2008)

Baseball playoffs: Red Sox-Cubs Series? King Kaufman
Could be, but the Angels, not the Sox or Rays, had the best record in the A.L. And: Is this really the year at Wrigley? (10/01/2008)

V.C.s see more green in clean tech Cyrus Farivar
Previous quarter saw $2.6 billion in new investments. (10/01/2008)

Bipartisan bailout folly Andrew Leonard
Democrats and Republicans are blaming accountants for Wall Street's woes. They are wrong. (10/01/2008)

"A tourniquet for a hemorrhaging economy" Andrew Leonard
As the credit squeeze tightens around Main Street, the Senate prepares to vote on its version of the bailout bill. (10/01/2008)

Cheap latte drinkers feel the pain Andrew Leonard
The credit crunch arrives at McDonald's. See, I told you the apocalypse was coming! (10/01/2008)

Everybody gets a bailout! Andrew Leonard
The Senate cooks up a package to rescue banks. Advocates for wind and solar power, parents and even therapists all have reason to cheer (10/01/2008)

What hath Spore spawned? Cyrus Farivar
More DRM, rampant piracy and possibly fewer games to come? (10/01/2008)

The specter of bailout-ism is haunting the Senate Andrew Leonard
Is the Paulson plan a slippery slope to socialism? What does a real socialist think? (10/01/2008)