the buzz log

Pretty much anything can become a metaphor for the political process during an election year. The reality program "American Idol"—multiple voting and lack of age restrictions aside—yields readily to a civics lesson.

Traditionally, the Fox show's searches rises as the season goes on, but they narrow in demographics. This year's "Idol" core group is no different: females 30-54.

But what about geographic appeal? Every single state in the union monitors the show. In the past 7 days, Oregon led the union, but likely due to hometown girl Kristy Lee Cook's boot. The question is, will the Beaver State drop off, or will some residents throw their support to another competitor? Compare the Buzz maps of the past 7 days, which show the passion for "Idol" and the top three.

Notes on the above: Among the "Idol" states, Utah is Archuleta's home base, but Cook has toured throughout the Midwest, which currently makes up the top "Idol" followers.

But, don't count anyone out yet. There's still a ways to go, and anything can happen. In last season's Top Six Search ranking, Blake Lewis, Chris Richardson, and Melinda Doolittle led the top 3, and young Jordin Sparks steadily hung on to the number 4 slot.