McCAIN DEFENDS KERRY

Independent-minded Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona made headlines today for having the temerity to defend Democrat John Kerry against charges he is weak on defense policy.

"No, I do not believe that he is, quote, weak on defense," McCain said.

McCain denies it's sour grapes from losing the 2000 GOP nomination to a shrub and adds quite a poignant piece of political commentary, saying he decries "this negativism that's going on on both sides. The American people don't need it, and the end result will be lower voter turnout, particularly amongst younger Americans."

An original, well-spoken thought? No wonder he's persona non grata at the White House.