the buzz log

With just a few days left before the election, we take a look back at the past week's buzziest political stories. We cover everything from statistical predictions to the media's playing defense. Read on for the stuff you may have missed while you were busy downloading Joe the Plumber's latest hit single.

Predictions, predictions, and more predictions
Everyone has a prediction for the election — some are just more informed than others. Sports statistician Nate Silver has taken a mathematical approach to the presidential contest and declared that Sen. Obama has a 96.7% chance of winning the election. Sen. McCain has a 4.75 chance of winning the popular vote, and there's a 0.25% chance of a tie in the Electoral College. An article from the Chicago Tribune breaks down the rest of the scenarios.

The press plays defense
The media is used to being accused of bias. Perhaps that's why the McCain camp's claim that the Los Angeles Times withheld a disparaging video of Barack Obama failed to make waves in the Buzz. Sure, there were stories of protesters and outraged citizens who demanded to see a tape of Obama-praising Palestinian activist Rashid Khalidi, but searches remained mum. Perhaps folks have scandal fatigue.

Doonesbury calls the election
Garry Trudeau, creator of Doonesbury, has called the election for Obama. The Washington Post explains that this coming Wednesday, the day after the election, Doonesbury will assume that Obama won. Why the early decision? Apparently, Trudeau did a "risk assessment" based on Nate Silver's analysis (above) and decided to take the chance. Papers who don't wish to run the comic can request a replacement.

Joe the Plumber has gone country
His 15 minutes aren't up quite yet. Joe Wurzelbacher, made famous during the bizarre third presidential debate, is being pursued for a "major record deal". According to Politico, his album could be out by Inauguration Day. If only they could package it for a Christmas release, we'd have a gift for everyone on our list.