CQ Politics' Web Picks

New York Times: In Blagojevich Case, Is It a Crime, or Just Talk?

Some lawyers are beginning to suggest that the juiciest part of the case against Mr. Blagojevich, the part involving his alleged effort to sell Barack Obama's Senate seat, may be less than airtight. There is no evidence, at least none that has been disclosed, that the governor actually received anything of value -- and the Senate appointment has yet to be made.

Slate: Fearless Politics

In less than 40 days, there will be a new sheriff in town. But Obama has promised that hope rather than fear will rule the city. His temperament is more of a persuader than an arm twister. He will look to build bonds and buy-ins and bridges, not pressure reluctant allies into a forced march. This will be a departure from his predecessors. Lyndon Johnson used the whole palette of emotions to set the tone for his presidency--guilt, affection, and ambition--but fear was his most powerful weapon.

Daily Beast: Washington's Five Biggest Losers

With the election over, let's take some time to think about who really lost this year, people who gaffed, aged, or otherwise slouched into the limelight and who will start the year with a fund of political capital smaller than your 401(k).

Pew Research: Hillary's New Job Better Known than Dow Jones Average

A new Pew News IQ survey yields some predictable results about the public's knowledge of facts about politics and world affairs, but also a few surprises. Hillary Clinton's nomination to be secretary of state is known by just about everyone -- not too surprisingly. However, even at a time of great focus on Wall Street's troubles, fewer than half were generally aware of where the Dow Jones Industrial Average is trading these days. Take the quiz.

Stateline.org: State Budget Gaps Could Widen to $200 Billion

States face their worst fiscal challenge in 25 years as the national recession could punch a $200 billion hole in state budgets over the next two years, the head of the National Governors Association said.

Mother Jones: The Seven Deadly Deficits

Joseph Stiglitz writes: If we can pull ourselves out of the malaise, if we can think more carefully and less ideologically about how to make our economy stronger and our society better, perhaps we can make progress in addressing some of our long-festering problems. As a road map for where to begin, consider the seven major shortfalls the Bush administration leaves behind.

Politico: Pelosi Lays Down the Law with Rahm

In talks with Emanuel and others, sources say, Pelosi has "set parameters" for what she wants from Barack Obama and his White House staff -- no surprises, and no backdoor efforts to go around her and other Democratic leaders by cutting deals with moderate New Democrats or conservative Blue Dogs.