The Honorable Gentleman Can Start Rotting Already

Jesse Helms has died, which reminds me that a friend of mine at Hallmark actually kept a bottle of champagne ready to celebrate with in just such an event. So drink up, Mark! You've had to wait at least ten years longer than anyone had a right to expect.

I was going to add a note or two about how, despite my general optimism, you have to admit that some people really don't have redeeming qualities. But really, this post from Dan Savage, which gives a rundown of Mr. Helms's unrepentantly odious career, is all anyone needs to read about the guy.