BREAKUP ON THE LEFT - AT 7:13 P.M. ET:  Apparently, there isn't total harmony in the precincts of the Hollywood left, as the Washington Post notes:

After two decades of togetherness and a reputation as one of the more stable relationships in Hollywood, a rep for Susan Sarandon this afternoon announced to People.com that not only has she split with partner of 23 years Tim Robbins, but that they actually broke up months ago:

"Actress Susan Sarandon and her partner of 23 years, actor Tim Robbins have announced that they separated over the summer," her rep Teal Cannaday tells PEOPLE in a statement. "No further comments will be made."

What happened and why the announcement now just in time to ruin the holiday season? Doubtless, details will emerge over the coming days.

COMMENT:  They were Hollywood's quintessential leftist couple.  Sarandon, in particular, almost outdistanced Jane Fonda. 

Now, a few questions:

1.  When Hollywood leftists split, do they fight over their millions, or does the fortune go to the workers?

2.  Will lawyers be involved, or will there be facilitators?

3.  Is there child custody on the left, or will the kids be shipped off to a commune?

4.  If one partner was found to be cheating with a person of a different race, does that partner get extra credit in any settlement?

5.  If one partner tried to hurt the other by cheating with a Republican, does that partner have to do penance by cutting Barbara Streisand's lawn for a year?

6.  Who keeps the bust of Che Guevara?  Who keeps the Hugo Chavez coffee mug? 

7.  Which one will get the note of regret from the White House?

Okay, okay, okay.

December 23, 2009