SHORT TAKES ON THE DRIFTING WRECKAGE – AT 9:26 P.M. ET:

GOOD IDEA – Iran is accusing Siemens of Germany of planting explosive devices in equipment that Siemens allegedly sold to Iran's nuclear program.  Siemens denies its nuclear division has had any contact with Iran.  Despite sanctions, Germany remains one of Iran's largest trading partners.  It is difficult to figure out who's lying here, but I do hope that any equipment sold to Iran's nuclear program is booby-trapped.  It's a kind of justice.

CLINTON CONDEMNS – Washington watchers are watching the behavior of Hillary Clinton during the Mideast crisis.  So far she seems relatively untouched by the blatant lies put out by the administration early, that the crisis originated entirely because of a YouTube video.  That assessment may change when Congress investigates the crisis and her role becomes more clear.  You have to believe that her husband is advising her to put some distance between herself and Obama, as she positions herself for 2016.

MASSACHUSETTS SENATE – Scott Brown and Elizabeth Warren held their first debate in the Massachusetts Senate race.  A quick poll, and the general opinions of observers, gave the bout to Brown, rather easily.  He was smart enough to realize that you can't beat Warren by being the courteous gentleman, and so he went after her, treating her as an equal.  He questioned her character and her honesty, pointing out that she's taken large sums from corporations in her legal practice, while claiming to be a woman of the people.  Brown has been down in some polls recently, but a new poll shows him regaining the lead over Warren.  Still, it will be tough for Brown in an overwhelmingly blue state.

September 22, 2012