Another day, another NYT story on the Congressional impasse on energy policy that could benefit from the addition of some money-and-politics annotation. I added the brackets.

When Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Stephen Johnson came to Denver two and half weeks ago, how did he spend his time? At a Republican fundraiser featuring representatives of the very industries his agency regulates, including El Paso Natural Gas, theColorado Mining Association, and the Colorado Petroleum Association, reports the Denver Post.

Hanging out with Trent Lott. Lots in common there.Who else will dare to be seen with him?UPDATE: Yes, that's a sip of Bacardi, with vodka -- he was smiling! ...

You gotta love it if you're Tom DeLay and a GOP precinct chairman from your home district gives you this ringing endorsement:Wade Webster, a Republican precinct chairman in Clear Lake, said he thought the party would stand behind Mr. DeLay, f...

It's crisis time in the Republican House.Rep. Jeff Flake (R-AZ) and Charlie Bass (R-NH) are circulating a letter calling for new leadership elections. They need 50 to force an election.I'll give more details when I get them.UDPATE: Roll Call...