SHORT TAKES ON THE DRIFTING WRECKAGE – AT 11:55 P.M. ET: 

NAILED – New York Police Commissioner Bill Bratton officially labeled yesterday attack on two police officers a terrorist act.  The attacker, who was killed by another officer at the scene, had a jihadist history.  I am baffled by the lack of general outrage.  Canada had two similar incidents this week, and the prime minister responded.  The nation was shaken.  I'm not aware of any response to the terrorist attack in New York by the president of the United States.  Amazing.

A MITT IN OUR FUTURE? – From Fox:  "MESA, Ariz. – Flashing the easy smile of someone whose name isn't on the Election Day ballot, Mitt Romney has never been so politically popular. He’s traveled the country – 23 states by his count – in recent months to lend support to fellow Republicans in advance of November’s midterm election.  'A lot of people who helped me – I owe big time,' the two-time presidential candidate cheerfully explained when asked about his campaign stops.  It’d be understandable if Romney’s enthusiasm for rallies, banquet halls, fundraisers and the seemingly never-ending line of outstretched hands had waned since his 2012 loss. But two years later, Romney is busy stumping for candidates in tight races nationwide including this two-day stretch in Arizona."  I just have a feeling he's paving the way for another run for president.

OH, THE PHONIES – From ABC:  "Hillary Clinton and Sen. Elizabeth Warren both stumped for Massachusetts governor candidate Martha Coakley today, and one thing was clear: Hillary hearts Elizabeth.  'I love watching Elizabeth,' Clinton gushed about the populist Massachusetts senator. 'You know, give it to those who deserve to get it. Standing up not only for you, but people with the same needs and same wants across our country. It's a great pleasure to be here in a state that has such tremendous tradition of leadership.' Clinton called Warren a 'passionate champion for working people and middle class families.'"  I hope Warren had a food taster with her.

October 24, 2014