Lent is one of the primary seasons of the Christian calendar. But this year that phrase "primary season" has a different meaning. Lent may be a primary season of prayer and fasting, repentance and introspection in a theological context. But in 2008 this is "primary season," which means something very different in a political context.

No matter how apolitical you may be, it has been impossible to avoid the 2008 "primary season." The pious pronouncements of the endless parade of political pundits can become like fingernails on a blackboard. But the close numbers within both parties have made the 2008 "primary season" more like an old-fashioned horse race, and we can't wait for the next "There's off!"

The great thing about a close race is that suddenly everyone is important. When else do Io…