Lunchtime Links

Grassley says a public option is “off the table.”

Baucus predicts health care reform this year — even without Republicans.

Bachmann proposes a bizarre, gruesome ritual for health reform opponents.

McDonnell’s college thesis blows the Virginia governor’s race wide open.

Why is Cheney so good at working the press?

One in four mortgages will be underwater by 2011.

Tom Ridge just can’t stop walking it back.

The Justice Department is getting serious about civil rights.

Did Twitter throw a wrench in the German elections?

Just discovered in the Philippines: a rat-eating plant!