When the Republicans learn a media trick, they never forget it

ONE woman got abortion, Iraq and the Kyoto Protocol into one shouted sentence. She’d also have got the Stars and Stripes right in the kisser if someone hadn’t pulled away the pro-Bush man who clearly intended to belt her with it.

On Friday last, it seemed a good idea to go to Naples, Florida for the Presidential visit there. Because I was already in the state, less than an hour's drive would allow me to get an advance sample of his upcoming visit to Ireland. I would get to observe the President and his brother in campaigning mode on an issue environmentalism widely seen as one of his weak points. And, as it turned out, the early start from a more northerly Florida city was worth it if only to see a Republican administration at its media-smart best.

Approaching Naples that morning, it was obvious Presidential supporters within the wealthy city had made a considerable effort to ensure the arriving motorcade received messages of positive welcome long before they reached the city itself. Highly professional banners reading "Welcome, Mr President" and "Support our Troops" could be seen at junctions along the Interstate.