David Ignatius: “Here’s the challenge for the Democrats: Become the party that fixes things, that solves problems, that respects expertise and professionalism. Let the GOP be the party of smart alecks and know-it-alls and smirking e-mail writers. The Republicans have made a bed of political arrogance; let them sleep in it for a good long while.” (Washington Post op-ed)

My National Security Letter Gag Order: “It is the policy of The Washington Post not to publish anonymous pieces. In this case, an exception has been made because the author — who would have preferred to be named — is legally prohibited from disclosing his or her identity in connection with receipt of a national security letter. The Post confirmed the legitimacy of this submission by verifying it with the author’s attorney and by reviewing publicly available court documents.” (Washington Post)

“Pluto-traditionalists rejoice. The downgraded dot in the sky has regained its status as our solar system’s ninth planet. Or at least it is when it’s hovering over New Mexico.

That’s the gist of a nonbinding measure approved by House members this week. Rep. Joni Gutierrez introduced it, and for good reason, she says: The Las Cruces Democrat grew up two blocks from the astronomer who discovered the dwarf planet, or, um, planet, if there’s any chance it’s above us right now.” (Albuquerque Tribune)