Posts by Doug Mataconis

Doug Mataconis
About Doug Mataconis
Doug Mataconis held a B.A. in Political Science from Rutgers University and J.D. from George Mason University School of Law. He joined the staff of OTB in May 2010 and contributed a staggering 16,483 posts before his retirement in January 2020. He passed far too young in July 2021.

In Wake Of Weiner, Fewer Congressional Tweets

Perhaps understandably, the Anthony Weiner incident seems to have caused some politicians to rethink their Twitter strategy.

Climate Change And Politics

As with most of the other issues facing us, our political conversation about climate change and what to do about it basically just involves yelling at each other.

America’s Newest Secret War, Or The Same One We’ve Been Fighting For Ten Years?

American drone strikes in Yemen are intensifying. Is this a new war. or just the same one we’ve been fighting since October 2001?

Delta Airlines PR Gaffe Over Military Baggage

Charging soldiers $200 for an extra bag on their way home for war? Really Delta?

11th Circuit Judges Skeptical Of Constitutionality Of Affordable Care Act

It was a good day in Court for opponents of the Affordable Care Act.

Tim Pawlenty’s Fiscal Plan: Too Good To Be True

Tim Pawlenty’s new fiscal plan isn’t very grounded in reality.

Is Mitt Romney’s Religion Still An Issue? Or, Why We Need To Separate Religion And Politics

Some people still think Mitt Romney’s religion is a relevant issue.

Health Care Costs And The Third-Party Payer Problem

How insurance makes health care more expensive

Bloggers Not Protected By Journalist Shield Law, New Jersey Court Rules

In a decision released yesterday. the New Jersey Supreme Court clarified the journalist/blogger distinction somewhat.

Herman Cain’s Silly Idea And The Silly “Read The Bill” Meme

Herman Cain says he wouldn’t sign any bill longer than three pages. It’s a line that will get him applause, but it’s totally impractical.

The Odd American Obsession With Political Sex Scandals

The Anthony Weiner reveals once again the odd American obsession with the intersection of sex and politics.

Anthony Weiner Apologizes For “Inappropriate Relationships,” Will Not Resign

After a week of denial, New York Congressman Anthony Weiner admitted today that he had engaged in online relationships with several women.

U.S. v. John Edwards: Both Sides Are Rolling The Dice

Both sides in the John Edwards case are heading into uncharted territory.

The Pathetic Defense Of Sarah Palin’s Botched History Of The Ride Of Paul Revere

The real story of Paul Revere’s ride has little to do with Sarah Palin’s odd tale, no matter what her defenders say.

Lower Home Prices Aren’t Necessarily A Bad Thing

The housing market has changed over the past five years, and that’s a good thing.