Not-So-Hot Carl

Poor Carl Bernstein. Ever since the glory days of the 70s, uncovering Watergate--and being played by Dustin Hoffman in the movie version--he's done little of note. While his former partner has published bestseller after bestseller, Carl's written practically nothing. In fact, his most famous appearance in print has been as Nora Ephron's rotter husband. (This time he was portrayed by Jack Nicholson).

So perhaps it's understandable he wants to relive past victories and take down the latest President. Trouble is he's got nothing this time but political disagreement, generally not considered impeachable. He tries to make a case, but everything he says only shows he really really disagrees with Bush's policies, nothing more. In his list of particulars, he includes "the non-role of Saddam Hussein and Iraq in the events of 9/11" (even if Bush had mistakenly made this claim it wouldn't be impeachable), "the assurance of Wolfowitz...that Iraq's oil reserves would pay for the war within two to three years after the invasion" and--you won't believe this--the death of Pat Tillman. Even Bernstein's best claims are no good, but someone should tell him that adding on a bunch of make-weight arguments doesn't help your case. Or is it that Vanity Fair pays by the word?

If the Dems take over Congress, I guess they can try a pointless investigation, but let's put our cards on the table. Bush is being attacked because the public feels the war went on too long and too many people died, and also that Bush was too slow in dealing with Katrina (and maybe that gas prices are too high). But the Constitution already has a way to deal with an unpopular President. It's called an election. (Not that Bush can run again, but the voters can still send a message.)