John McCain defends reaction to Hilliary Clinton question

Class act.

Republican presidential hopeful John McCain said Wednesday he responded appropriately after a woman used the word "bitch" to describe Democratic rival Hillary Rodham Clinton.

"She made a comment, I made light of the comment, and then I said very seriously I treated and continue to treat Senator Clinton with respect and I've said that many times," the Arizona senator told reporters at his Phoenix office. He chuckled when a reporter brought it up.

When asked whether he thought the woman's comment was funny, McCain said he reacted that way because he wanted to move on.

"I can't dictate what other people say — that's not my business," he said. "Nor is it an appropriate role for me to play in a gathering at a restaurant, and if anybody thinks that I should, then I think they have the wrong idea of what gatherings are all about."

At the campaign event on Monday, the woman asked McCain, "How do we beat the bitch?"

McCain laughed along with the crowd as he said, "May I give the translation?"

East Haven recount madness ends

Here's Fox61's report on the East Haven recount.

DELUCA RESIGNS

Sen. Louis C. DeLuca announced his resignation shortly after 1 p.m. today, ending a 17-year career in the Senate and a five-month controversy over his dealings with James Galante, a trash hauler accused of having ties to organized crime.

DeLuca struggled to remain composed as he read aloud a two-page statement. His wife, Alice, stood by his side, her right hand on his left shoulder.

"For now, I must do what is right for my family, my district and my state. I will retire from the state Senate and resign my office, effective Nov. 30, 2007," he said. Then he thanked his supporters and added, "I love you, and farewell."

Click here for coverage from the Hartford Courant

UPDATE: The Secretary of State issued the following statement.

“I commend the Senators of both political parties who worked so diligently on this matter and put partisanship aside for the greater good. As the state’s chief election official, I stand ready to accept Sen. DeLuca’s resignation and to work with constituents, potential candidates, and local election officials to ensure the special election to replace him runs smoothly.”

While the date of the special election is uncertain, according to state statute, it must take place no later than 56 days after Sen. DeLuca’s resignation takes effect – which is November 30th. Once Sen. DeLuca resigns Gov. Rell has ten days to issue a writ of special election. The special election is held 46 days after Gov. Rell issues the writ. Assuming the writ is issued on a Friday, the date of the special election would be either January 15th or January 22nd.”

In Memoriam

Looking back at those who passed away this past week.

Election day roundup

Sunday's Beyond the Headlines featured a roundtable discussion on last week's municipal elections. If you missed the conversation, make sure you watch the video, the points raised about Hartford's turnout speaks volumes about voter apathy in the Capitol city.