Why Must Republicans Be Assholes?

You know, I think the two candidates are both interesting men. Decent men, by and large. I'd love to have a campaign of real debate and real ideas, and I think the two candidates would, as well.

Unfortunately, they're surrounded by hacks.

Well, anyway, McCain is.

Here's his advisor, Charlie Black:

On national security McCain wins. We saw how that might play out early in the campaign, when one good scare, one timely reminder of the chaos lurking in the world, probably saved McCain in New Hampshire, a state he had to win to save his candidacy - this according to McCain's chief strategist, Charlie Black. The assassination of Benazir Bhutto in December was an "unfortunate event," says Black. "But his knowledge and ability to talk about it reemphasized that this is the guy who's ready to be Commander-in-Chief. And it helped us." As would, Black concedes with startling candor after we raise the issue, another terrorist attack on U.S. soil. "Certainly it would be a big advantage to him," says Black.

And here's our dear friend, Karl Rove:

"Even if you never met [Obama], you know this guy," Rove said, per Christianne Klein. "He's the guy at the country club with the beautiful date, holding a martini and a cigarette that stands against the wall and makes snide comments about everyone who passes by."

Contemptible.