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It was President Harry Truman who said "if you want a friend in Washington, get a dog."

That's advice that could resonate with Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. After her overwhelming win in West Virginia, former Senator John Edwards, John Kerry's vice presidential running mate, dropped a shoe this week, endorsing Barack Obama. Will the other "shoe" -- Elizabeth Edwards -- drop? I think if she did, she'd come out for Hillary.

Earlier, we had the example of Bill Richardson, New Mexico governor, who had dreams of running for president himself, endorsing Barack. He has close attachment to the Clintons -- he was in his cabinet and considered a close adviser.

You wonder if these two presidential wannabes felt that Hillary was too hard on them in the early campaigning? Again, the Bobby Kennedy philosophy "don't get mad, get even."

* * *

At the recent Common Council meeting approval was granted for the Colombian Festival to be held in Veterans Memorial Park in July.

What started out as a civil exchange of views ended up with some sharp exchanges between council members Nick Kydes and Steve Serasis. Hizzoner Dick Moccia needed a striped shirt to referee the meeting.

The acrimony was a result of last year's festival that brought noise and other complaints from Seaview Avenue residents. Some stricter controls included in the approval may make for a better scene this year. I hope so.

* * *

Bob Barr, former Republican representative, has thrown his hat in the ring for the Libertarian Party presidential nomination. Barr, ultra-conservative, has been a critic of President Bush over the war and quit the party two years ago.

Like most ex-politicians, despite claiming to be so conservative, he did what most rejected politicians do -- he became a lobbyist.

Who would he draw votes from? Ron Paul?

* * *

The Connecticut House lineup is falling into place. Here in the 4th District, Republican Chris Shays may be in for the fight of his political life, challenged by wealthy Jim Himes of Greenwich.

The Democratic incumbents all are on board, with Joe Courtney being challenged by former sub base commander Sean Sullivan. Rosa DeLauro of New Haven, seeking a 10th term, is opposed by acupuncturist Boaz Itshaky. John Larson, in the capital area, is challenged by Joe Visconti of West Hartford. First-termer Chris Murphy is opposed by state Sen. David Cappiello.

* * *

The emergence of Alex Knopp. former Democratic mayor, speaking out on traffic safety, has some wondering if he is considering a run for office again. What about that job at Yale? Despite his swan song that indicated that was it, you never say never.

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Nothing brings out the pols like a chance to speak at a college commencement. Vice President Dick Cheney spoke at the Coast Guard Academy in New London and was greeted by war protesters.

Catholic colleges are getting particularly gun-shy of speakers who might be at odds with the Vatican.

I think the idea of big-name speakers is ridiculous. The day belongs to the graduates and their long suffering (and broke) parents.

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State Sen. Bob Duff, Democrat, will be challenged by Steve Papadakos for the 25th Senate seat. The GOP town committee gave him its blessing last week.

Papadakos says Duff is "a nice guy and a fellow Realtor" but adds we need a change in Hartford. Change? That's a novel issue.

The reminds me of the mayoral race years ago between incumbent Frank Esposito and Rep. Larry Anastasia. It was a love fest between two old buddies, and nary a hard word was spoken.

Esposito still won.

* * *

Larry Cafero, House Republican minority leader, introduced a bill to allow the Motor Vehicle Department to offer license plates with the line "support our troops." Fair enough.

But how about also offering a line "Bring Our Troops Home" to those who support our troops but want them out if Iraq?

* * *

Meanwhile, Hillary will go on to the last primary, and even to the convention. What's wrong with that?


John P. Reilly is editor emeritus of The Hour.

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