Age before beauty in Iowa

Yesterday in Iowa, Kerry and Edwards suddenly joined the race for President. Both will undoubtedly have fond memories of the cornfield state forever, as Iowan Dems gave the two senators a shocking upset over the feisty Howard Dean (can we just start calling him Ho-D?).

The Post reports that the Senators' victory was spurred by large numbers of late-deciding voters. Only 30% decided more than a month ago, and many of them were the Deanies. Apparently the old hands, who understand the role of the august Iowa caucuses, knew to hang tight and play their cards only on election day. New Hampsters are well-known for last-minute support casting, and with Dean's balloon of invincibility popped, I predict he'll come in a distant second in New Hampshire, if not third or worse.

Clearly, Republicans for Dean need to rally, if the '04 is going to stay interesting. So start talking it up out there: Dean is the only man who can beat Bush. And practice in front of the mirror so you can say it with a straight face.