Olbermann commentary on White House campaign tactics

On MSNBC's Countdown, Keith Olbermann remarks in his trademark "Special Comment" on the absurdity of the Bush administration's attacks on Sen. John Kerry, under fire for remarks construed by Republicans as an insult to American troops.

Olbermann recalls the violent 1856 caning by Rep. Preston Brooks of South Carolina of the vociferous, anti-slavery Sen. Charles Sumner of Massachusetts, which disabled the senator for three years and was one of the memorable events leading up to the Civil War. In support, Brooks' constituents sent him new canes. Drawing a parallel, Olbermann remarks, "We almost wonder to whom President Bush will send the next 'new cane.'"