What? You’ve gotta be kidding. Greg Stumbo considering a job in the Environmental Protection Cabinet? We seem to recall a little incident with LEO where Stumbo had some controversial things to say about mountaintop removal that certainly wouldn’t fly with anyone who cares about the environment. Not a chance that’d be easy for anyone to swallow. Also interesting that Stumbo and Luallen (who is quite reactive and wary-sounding) snap at each other constantly, isn’t it? Oh– the story is about Cassaro, not those two. [H-L]

Anti-GOP sentiment hurting financially? McConnell and the NRSC are worried about 2008 because their fundraising numbers are a nightmare. McConnell has a mountain of cash but the rest of the senate Republicans are suffering as they helplessly watch Democrats out raise them by tens of millions. [CBS]

Bush visits, causes traffic jam. George Dubya was in New Albany yesterday to discuss “serious problems” but really spent his time on stage attacking Democrats with every breath. A lot could be accomplished if this lame duck gave up the rhetoric to actually do something. Making sure his rich friends get richer is too high on his priority list for that to happen, though. [C-J]

Making nice? Boone county Republicans are reaching out the Beshear administration. County leaders have been tight with Ernie Fletcher and his appointees, allowing ready-made lines of communication and revenue. What’s positive, though, is that these same people are reaching out to Beshear and are speaking positively in the press about being able to forge strong working relationships. Boone Countians should be proud of their leaders for being able to put aside political differences. [Community Press]

McConnell lost touch with constituency? Of course. Is Michael Cassaro the man to take him on? Obviously not. Cassaro, while he may be a good guy, hasn’t made an effort to connect with Democratic Party leaders, hasn’t had hands-on experience with the political game and has recently contributed to people like Jack Wood and Ernie Fletcher. Doesn’t bode well for a candidacy. He’s a Gatewood in the making and that may be why he’s given money to Galbraith in the past. [C-J]