The right question

The New York Times has a fascinating article on how the Hillary Clinton campaign deals with “defectors” to the Barack Obama camp.

Former Clinton Chief of Staff Leon Panetta, speaking about former Clinton aides who now support Barack Obama, told reporter Mark Leibovich, “These are people that the Clintons gave an opportunity to serve,” said Mr. Panetta, speaking generally. “They helped give them the titles they now have, and made them a lot of money. I think the Clintons probably feel they are owed something.”

How’s this for chilling: One anonymous Clinton supporter said that Sen. John Kerry “was dead to us” because the Massachusetts senator endorsed Obama and criticized former President Bill Clinton’s behavior ahead of the South Carolina primary. Yikes.

I hope, as they decide who to support in the presidential race, that Bill Clinton’s former aides are asking themselves not “What do I owe my former boss’ wife?” but “What do I owe my country?”