Kentucky's 5th congressional district, which has long been represented by unabashed reactionary Harold Rogers, is in the eastern part of the state, a typically Appalachian district filled with working folks who consistently vote against their own economic interests to support religionist values-spouting Republicans. The Democrats didn't bother running a candidate against Harold Rogers in November and Obama only won 3 of the district's almost two dozen counties.

This morning the Lehigh Valley has been in the news because a former congressman, Club For Growth president Pat Toomey, has given Arlen Specter a pass in terms of his right flank. The somewhat demented Toomey, a right wing extremist who preceded Charlie Dent as PA-15's rep, said he's not going to primary Specter (and run for governor instead).

The political evolution of Friend of Blog Philip Munger

Live interview with activist and writer Mike Stark

While our Blue America czar Howie Klein is away, I thought we could surprise him with a thank you post for all he has done over the last few years. Howie and many other folks have organized us to nominate, publicize, and support dozens of progressive candidates. Many of these outstanding candidates are now serving in the U.S. Congress.

Live interview with Florida's Kenneth Quinnell

Second-time Congressional candidate Charlie Brown conceded a short time ago to Tom McClintock, right-wing ideologue who wasn't even able to vote for himself, since he lives 400 miles away from CA-04.

In Canada, an unusual series of moves is playing out. The government, which just stood for election and returned with more seats, but still a minority, is facing off against the three opposition parties that have agreed to force a confidence vote that would bring down the government. Two of the three, the Liberals and the NDP, have agreed to a coalition, with Liberal leader Dion as care taker Prime Minister,

The newly elected Congressman stands above politics; watch him closely. He's your "guy on the inside".

Live interview with Congressman-Elect Tom Perriello of Virginia's 5th District