Blah blah blah...

So D.C.'s all abuzz about the possibility that the Republicans will send Cheney back to the badlands of Wyoming from whence he came, replacing him on the ticket with someone who works and plays well with others. The NYT even reported the rumor. Cheney's favorability is in the tank, and he continues to forcefully make claims about Iraq and Al Qaeda that leave thinking Americans shaking their heads in wonder at his audacity. He's a liability for the ticket, surely. The man just seems to remind everyone but the most partisan conservatives of that one relative at family get togethers who kind of sits off and reads some book about money, maybe barking at the occasional youngster who runs through the living room too fast.

In other words, I hope he stays on the ticket. I hope Mr. Bush does not come to his senses and ask McCain (who will reject him again) then maybe Guliani or some other likeable guy to join him on the ticket. So, the question: how to be sure Cheney sticks around?

Here's the answer: Kerry, or better- Edwards - should call on Cheney to step down. Or maybe something lighter. Toss out a few honest criticisms of Cheney's performance and say "I understand why these rumors about replacing him on the ticket are swirling around."

You know Bush hates to do what the D's want. You doubt my strategy? I have one word for you. Rumsfeld.