* Republicans want to show voters they can "resist popular spending programs," in favor of massively unpopular ones. [NYT]

* Voting for a Republican is like a suicide pact, but at least you know what you're getting. [WP]

* Fred Thompson is working overtime to make sure he's ready to disappoint the six or seven supporters he has left at the GOP's next debate. [NYT]

* If you didn't know by know, the media hates America. [WP]

* But will Hillary's dark horse campaign be able to turn her netroots support into cash and a ground operation? [Politico]

* Nancy Pelosi is confused about what exactly it is she does for a living. [The Hill]

* Conservatives must look to their inner Barry Goldwater in these trying times. [WT]