King talks about saving Christmas

But doesn’t mention he missed the vote. Odd.

The roll call is here.

Democratic Debate

Wake up. The debates are over.

To me, it’s simply amazing that in this high-pressure atmosphere, with both parties locked in tooth-and-nail, neck-and-neck nomination battles, that it was still possible orchestrate back-to-back, low-wattage and virtually impact-free debates with just three weeks left until caucus day. Perhaps my expectations were too high.

Mondale stops in CR

Former vice president and 1984 Democratic presidential nominee Walter Mondale stopped in Cedar Rapids Thursday and joined a couple dozen supporters at Hillary Clinton’s field office to watch the final Democratic debate before Iowa’s caucuses. Chips and veggies were served.

Mondale, a former Minnesota senator, talked with reporters before settling into a blue wingback chair to watch the debate. A steno pad was propped on his knee. Maybe he was writting down a few pointers for his candidate. “Don’t say you’ll raise taxes.”

Here’s a transcript of the 5-minute Q & A.

Code Pink

I’ve had a few more e-mails wondering how to find my column. It won’t be long now before the Gazette starts posting opinion pieces on its Web site. In the meantime, here’s today’s column.