insert Drunken Kennedy/Irish joke here

Hotline asks us to "Picture it.":

This morning at 2:45 a.m., "a Member of Congress nearly smashes his car into Capitol Police officer's vehicle. Member 'staggering' out of car. Allegedly says he's late for a vote. Cap. police sergeants show up. Member is apparently given a ride home. Cap. police patrol officer's union protests. Roll Call gets wind of the incident."

And Roll Call names names "Police labor union officials asked acting Chief Christopher McGaffin this afternoon to allow a Capitol Police officer to complete his investigation into an early-morning car crash involving Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.)."

Why do House incumbents do this sort of thing, and why does Patrick Kennedy in particular do this sort of idiotic behavior every so often? There is something wrong with the House and its de facto ten year terms. Well over 90% of all House members win their reelection by overwhelming margins. Is it because they are especially skilled or likeable? Look to Patrick Kennedy to answer that one.

It is because of redistricting. In order for Democrats to recapture the House, they need 15 seats. That alone will reduce those high-reelect numbers and hopefully will be helpfull for democracy.

And drunk driving