... so start it with Dean's election as Chairman

I have to say I have been hoping the Good Doctor would assume this role for some time. I know some will scoff at Dean's resurgence in a prominent role, and the Right will spin it as another example of the Democrats drifting further left and out-of-touch. But that is wrongheaded and misunderstands the role of the DNC Chair - as well as Dean's political record as Governor, as we know. The Chairman is SUPPOSED to be an unabashed partisan, a committed salesman, and also a slick fundraiser. I never found McAullife convincing, while Dean has been tireless in continuing his involvement with the Democratic party since conceding the nomination - arguably he has been running a parallel organization just as successfully with Democracy for America. He is an asset and this would be the best way to utilize him. It would also guarantee that he does not run for the Presidential nomination in 2008, a race he cannot hope to win anyway. It would also send a message - ever since his campaign started, Dean spoke passionately about standing up for core "Democratic" values, unapologetically and confidently. The Democrats need that morale boost now more than ever. And he also agrees that the party needs to fight ever fight, challenging Tom Delay, Marilyn Musgrave, even when conventional wisdom says the races are unwinnable. And Blogforamerica.com was also where I first discovered the existence of blogs, so colour me sentimental for wanting to see Dean in a semi-prominent position. WHEW - plenty of thoughts there for you to mull on your anticipated return to the blogosphere, Tim. Combined with your experience in the Vegas snow, it should prove for good reading, so I will turn Ahab over to you for the next few days. Looking forward to your thoughts and reactions, as always.