Big Table Fantasies  —  Broadly speaking, the serious contenders for the Democratic nomination are offering similar policy proposals — the dispute over health care mandates notwithstanding.  But there are large differences among the candidates in their beliefs about what it will take to turn a progressive agenda into reality.

In '08 Race, the Other Clinton Steps Up Publicly  —  DUNLAP, Iowa — When Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton's campaign advisers laid out their new political strategy in a private conference call with allies last Tuesday, Bill Clinton was not on the line.  He did not need to be.  The message being delivered was his.

KERREY'S PRAISE OF BARACK A BIG O-BOMBO  —  NEW SCHOOL President and former US Sen. Bob Kerrey just couldn't help himself from applauding Barack Obama after endorsing Hillary Rodham Clinton in Iowa yesterday - until he gave a left-handed compliment that almost sounded like it was cooked up in Clinton's headquarters.

Iowa's first lady to back Edwards for president  —  Iowa's first lady, who had said she would stay neutral in the presidential race, has changed her mind and plans to endorse Democrat John Edwards Monday.  —  "I decided to join in the fray," Mari Culver said in an interview today.

Why Did Bob Kerrey Mention Obama's Middle Name — 'Hussein'?  —  Some Obama supporters have asked why former Sen. Bob Kerrey, D-Neb., who endorsed Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., today, mentioned her opponent Sen. Barack Hussein Obama's middle name in remarks published in The Washington Post.  (LINK)