The Center Holds [Joe Klein, Swampland]: "The fact that the two leading Democratic candidates, Obama and Clinton, are essentially running moderate campaigns--and that John Edwards' populism hasn't exactly caught fire--is an indication that the Democratic base isn't nearly as partisan as the Post seems to think it is." Angling for No. 2... [Matt Lewis, Townhall.com]: "Why would [Texas Gov. Rick] Perry endorse Rudy? Obvious speculation is that it puts him on the short list of running mates. In fact, Perry will accompany Rudy to Iowa today, following Rudy's presentation at the Club for Growth. If this doesn't further fuel speculation that he is a possible VP pick, I'm not sure what else would." ...But Does It Help Rudy? [Erick, Redstate]: "If I were Rudy, and I'm not, but if I were, I would not be in such a hurry to promote Governor Rick Perry's endorsement." Three Is a Pattern [Todd Beeton, MyDD]: "This is now the third poll in a week to show Clinton at or above 50%... It's evident that Clinton is the only candidate who can really claim any long-term growth, as Obama, Edwards and Richardson have all been at or above their current standing in national primary polling earlier this year." Clinton and McCain Are Tops [Daniel W. Drezner]: "These two essays [in Foreign Affairs by Clinton and McCain] are easily the best of the bunch. Both Clinton and McCain--or at least, the staffers who wrote these pieces--have a better grasp for policy detail and means-ends relationships than the other candidates." --Josh Patashnik