In new book, Wendy Kaminer describes ACLU censoring itself

Why does this not come as a total shock?

As described by John Leo in his "Bookshelf" column in today's Wall Street Journal, reviewing Wendy Kaminer's new book, "Worst Instincts: Cowardice, Conformity, and the ACLU" --

In 2006, the ACLU descended into self-satire by drawing up a gag order to cover its own board members -- no public criticism of policies or personnel, because speaking out might hurt fund raising. When word got out, a storm of ridicule forced the withdrawal of the plan. But Ms. Kaminer notes that only six of the 53 ACLU affiliates protested the no-dissent policy; the ACLU apparently couldn't be bothered to defend its own right to free speech.

I especially like that last sentence.

Timing is everything

"Freddie Mac Puts Restrictions on Refinances" -- headline of story in today's Wall Street Journal, page A3

Rudolph the Red Knows Rain, Dear

Russian czar wannabe Vlad "The Impaler" Putin commenting on new US sanctions against Iran, as reported in today's Wall Street Journal - "I think running around like a lunatic - with a razor and waving a red banner - isn't the best way to solve this kind of problem," said Putin, perhaps alluding to his own experience with this sort of thing while running the KGB.