David Obey, Dick Cheney and KISS

When taught to communicate effectively they say you've got to remember the power of K.I.S.S.

Not as in the leather-clad, make-up wearing, fire-breathing, supergroup (although they deserve much honor and respect).

And certainly not the revolting romantic kiss that Al Gore planted on Tipper back at the 2000 Democratic convention.

But the "Keep It Simple Stupid" kiss. The fewer words, the better. It's easier to get your point across that way.

VP

Everyone remembers former Vice President Dick Cheney's response when asked about a poll which showed a lack of support for the Iraq war.

"So?" he said.

Obey me

House Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey followed suit today when answering a question on NPR about the stimulus bill and the purposeful decision to give Congress less direction on how the money is to be spent.

"You're not telling them how to spend it the way you usually do," said an alarmed Andrea Seabrook

Obey's reaction?

"So what?"

Simple

Sound a bit cranky? Oh, he was. He clearly did not enjoy the conversation.

But following the K.I.S.S. standard, we'll end it here.

Just in case you want a bit more, here's the transcript.