The constipated debut of Obamacare has reduced the president of the United States to the status of TV pitchman. "Act now" to get this great product, he exhorted listeners on Monday, offering testimonials from one of the rare successful purchasers, promising limitless benefits and low prices, and even an 800 number.

Don't think just because Democratic Congressman Patrick Murphy is running in a primarily Republican district, he's a dead man walking. Murphy might actually turn into one of the blue team's safest bets for re-election in 2014.

WASHINGTON -- Two things are often said in this town: "A day is a year in politics." And, "It's all about 2014."

Combined, the two statements mean that much can happen between now and the midterm elections next year when Republicans hope to hold the House and gain the Senate -- and Democrats intend to hold the Senate and recover the House.