You know this is a tipping point moment when veteran Washington Post columnist David Broder, a barometer of conventional wisdom, writes that “the shadow of defeat” is crossing President Bush‘s “political horizon.”

In a recent column Broder–the dean of American political punditry–offered a bleak picture of Bush’s reelection chances. Why does this matter? Well, as Eric Alterman points out in his smart and timely book, “What Liberal Media,” Broder is “revered by elite journalists for his alleged ability…to speak to what is understood to be the common sense ‘middle ground’ of American politics.”

So, Beltway insiders take notice when Broder pontificates–in this case, he lays out the grim ramifications of AWOL WMDs, mounting casualties in a guerrilla war, and a rotten economy on Bush’s reelection chances.

Could this signal that Bush’s free ride is over? Let’s hope that what one beltway reporter said of Broder still holds true: “There are those the rest of us seek out for guidance…This is particularly true in political journalism where one person stands out–David Broder.”

**********

Boondocks Fantasy

Everyday brings news of the collateral damage inflicted on our democracy and economy by this Administration‘s war without end. We’re no longer on the threshold of building a permanent war economy, which will distort America’s priorities at home and abroad–we’ve crossed the rubicon.

And this week we learn that the US military–with a budget larger than the next fifteen nations combined–may not have enough troops to meet the US’s expanding global commitments. Shouldn’t that soldier from the Third Infantry, who called for Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld‘s resignation, be honored instead of silenced?

If you fantasize, as I do, about what a sane and decent government, with humane priorities, could do for its citizens, check out a recent episode of Aaron McGruder’s Boondocks strip:

Huey listens intently to a TV announcer:

“And in other news, President Bush announced sweeping changes in his administration’s domestic policy today. Starting with quadrupling the amount of money spent on education and teacher pay raises…The additional money will come from a massive slashing of the defense budget combined with a complete elimination of corporate welfare programs. Following the changes to education, the President said he would break up media monopolies, guarantee health care to all citizens, and take critical steps to rescue the environment. ‘These tasks are critically important to our future as Americans,” said President Bush. “And I promise to get started immediately…..” As Huey walks away from the TV in shock, Bush continues, “…Just as soon as the war on terror is brought to a triumphant conclusion.””Sigh,” groans Huey.

If you’re a Boondocks fan, like I am, watch for McGruder’s forthcoming book, “The Right to be Hostile,” with an introduction by Michael Moore.