There is no more consistent stack of baloney in the national media than Newsweek's "Conventional Wisdom Watch" manufacturers claiming they represent what all of Washington is thinking -- instead of the liberal fraction of Washington. This week's edition (called the "Executive Privilege Edition") begins with a typical down arrow for President Bush: "Conditions for aides to meet Congress: No oath or transcripts. Sounds like one of Cheney's covert ops." They compare Bush to Nixon, but not to Bill Clinton, who also tried to block congressional ans special-prosecutor investigations with executive privilege claims. But there are three "Up" arrows for Democrats:
-- The Edwardses [Up]. America sees a highly functional political family for a change. We're rooting for you, Elizabeth.
-- Pelosi [Up]. Finally wrangles an antiwar vote in House. Will get vetoed, but that's why Dems won.
-- Gore [Up]. Old: Ozone Man booted from D.C. a loser. New: Oscar-worthy Gore-acle is a green Beltway idol.
It really would be more honest for Newsweek to call it "Newsweek Consensus Watch." Or "What We Say To Each Other Over Lunch."
