Ted Koppel: Badass
ABC News Nightline host Ted Koppel shook things up at last night's Democratic debate in New Hampshire. Refusing to ask the candidates the tried and true questions about health care and Iraq, Koppel asked candidates about the process of the campaign, including Gore's endorsement of Dean, fundraising in each campaign, and when periphery candidates Sharpton, Kucinich and Mosley-Braun are going to exit the race. The questions rankled not a few people, including almost all of the candidates and their staff. At one point Koppel, who injected himself into the debate with sly zingers and quick refutations of candidates rote responses, was zinged himself by Kucinich who implored the audience to see where the media drives American politics, away from issues and toward the horse race. The comment met with much applause. The debate turned out to be a lot rougher than others, reminding everybody that politics is a contact sport.

In other contact sport news, Steve Spurrier, who looks ridiculous in cold weather, will be back as the Redskins head coach next year. Both he and Snyder were very clear that speculation about Spurrier leaving, perhaps to Nebraska or UNC, were just that and he has no intention of leaving the Skins. If he stays, it will mark the first time since Snyder has owned the team that a head coach will enter his third season.

Finally, the Weekly Standard sticks up for Donovan McNabb this week, saying the allegations that he is overrated are not supported by stastical analysis. Quota-back no more? You make the call.

Tony