SHORT TAKES ON THE DRIFTING WRECKAGE – AT 8:41 P.M. ET:

OHIO DEADLOCKED – We reported on other swing state polls earlier today.  Now, a new poll just out shows Ohio, one of the key swing states, deadlocked in the presidential race.  The Columbus Dispatch poll shows each candidate receiving 45% of the vote. The Romney forces have counted on the national convention, which starts tomorrow, to boost their candidate's fortunes.  But the convention may be disrupted by the approaching hurricane, which also will give President Obama the chance to "act presidential" in responding to the storm.  It might be the only presidential thing he's done recently.

NEW TAX ON INTERNET SERVICE? – The FCC is considering a new tax on internet service.  Given the politics, it's unlikely a decision will be made until after the election.  Proceeds from the tax would go toward something called the Connect America Fund, run by the FCC, which is designed to expand internet access to those currently without it.  Noble cause, but why does this take a federal tax?  Private efforts are called for here, but they're out of style right now.

CHICAGO CASUALTY UPDATE – It has been a fairly routine weekend in Chicago thus far.  Some seven people have been murdered, and 24 more wounded.  One of the murder victims was killed within a few blocks of Obama's home, but we know of no presidential statement.  Chicago police are finally making it clear that these horrors are occurring only in certain neighborhoods.  Most of the city is safe.  There is also some talk, revolutionary in these politically trendy times, that maybe parental control of teenaged children might be involved here.  No.  You don't say.

August 26, 2012