Okay, People, Take Three, Let's Get This Right. That Includes You Mr. NYT.

So when Obama goes bowling, it’s news. When Clinton distorts the truth about the events of a trip she took to Bosnia, it’s news. Obama orders orange juice instead of coffee? News. Clinton makes over $100 million since 2000? Yeah, news.

And I mean news, ad nauseum. Turn on the T.V., pick up a paper, turn on your computer. It’s all there. Sound bite journalism for the mindless sensationalist. Does any of the above have substance? Who cares? Does it have any relevance to a candidates’ ability to lead this country? Since when does that matter?

Now what about McCain? What can the media stick on him?

Okay, take one.

The DNC files a complaint with the Federal Elections Commission alleging that McCain intends to illegally opt out of his matching funds commitment, thereby breaking a federal law that McCain himself co-wrote with Russ Feingold.

Anyone?

Cut.

C'mon, feel it. Get in character. Be the news.

Okay, take two.

One month later, after McCain has officially surpassed his spending limit per the federal matching fund guidelines, and thereby has now actually committed a federal offense, another complaint is filed by Ms. Jane “firedoglake” Hamsher to the FEC against McCain.

Anything? Anyone?

Cut.

Alright you guys, you're not getting it. This is serious stuff. Breathe deep, exhale, find your focus, feel the part. Let's not let this flop again. Don't forget people, we've got a presidential candidate with complaints filed against him for violating a federal law that he wrote.

Okay. Got it? Third time’s a charm.

Aaaaaannnnnd, ACTION.

Today, the DNC is filing suit in the D.C. District Court to force an investigation into McCain’s unilateral withdrawal from federal campaign funding based upon the latter two complaints. At issue in the suit is that the FEC lacks the requisite quorum to hear the complaints, and thus the evidence of this matter should be resolved in the court. Thus, if the FEC is unable to act, then the DNC is asking that the court allow it to sue McCain directly for violating federal campaing laws.

And we're rolling, stay in character. Last shot. Let's get it right this time.

But seriously, and without the frustrating director metaphor, the question is, how will this get covered in the media? Admittedly, the blogging piece on the Washington Post is an oft cited source for this story in the blogosphere. But how will other mainstream media outlets play this one to the voting crowd of America? Sure, this story is appearing on other news blogs, but where is it playing on the front page? Where is it leading on the nightly news? Why haven't I heard everyone in my firm buzzing about this in the kitchen just two doors down from my office?

I suspect breaking ,or even the allegation of breaking, federal law does not compare to a prostitute scandal, or an overzealous preacher, or a statement about Americans’ feelings towards its government. Thus, yet again, the media won’t go too far on this story. Nothing.

McCain will get another pass.

Of course, as an aside, no one should be surprised at McCain’s disdain for federal law. His party and the current administration have ignored law after law for years. And with these politicians cruising down the hallowed roads inside the D.C. Beltway, ignoring and outright breaking laws with impunity, is it any wonder that companies such as Fox and Starbucks are now similarly giving the middle finger to the FCC and a California Superior Court by refusing to pay on fines and damages awarded against them? Of course not.