SHORT TAKES ON THE DRIFTING WRECKAGE – AT 10:06 P.M. ET: 

FLORIDA DEADLOCKED – A new Mason-Dixon poll in Florida has Obama at 46% among registered voters, and Romney at 45% .  A poll of "likely" voters would probably have Romney tied, or slightly ahead.  Romney must take Florida, our fourth most populous state, which puts the spotlight again on the possible selection of Florida Senator Marco Rubio as his running mate. 

LONDON DISASTER – One of the things Britain boasted about in hosting the summer Olympics, which begin in a few weeks, is the quality of the security that will surround the games.  That claim is in a shambles tonight after revelations of a security plan in total chaos.  There weren't enough private guards hired, requiring the calling up of British military personnel to fill in the gaps.  Besides, there are widespread reports that many of the guards hired are deadbeats, have poor job histories and, in a frightening number of cases, cannot speak English.  The firm responsible for security has apologized, which should make all visitors feel better.

WE'RE SHOCKED, SHOCKED – A Canadian woman active in the campaign to combat "Islamophobia" has been arrested in Canada and charged with terrorism for her alleged attempts to smuggle weapons to Hezbollah.  Why, I'm so surprised.  I can hardly believe it.  Mouna Diab, 26, is the first woman to be charged under provisions of an anti-terrorism act passed in response to the 9-11 attacks.  This is also the first time Canadian police have filed charges in regard to Hezbollah, which is an arm of Iran.  Previous charges have focused on Al Qaeda or other groups.

July 14, 2012