Good morning.

Venezuela: Narcostate?

Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez has appointed an individual officially listed as a high-ranking kingpin and sponsor of terrorism as the general-in-chief — the top position in the Venezuelan military. And he’s not the only drug lord surrounding Chavez these days. Investor’s Business Daily argues that Venezuela is now a narcostate.

The Political Targeting of Chris Christie

The Daily Caller reports that the Justice Department official going after Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ) has a history of abusing power for political purposes. I know we’re all shocked about that one.

Senate Will Hold Hearing on TSA

The United States Senate’s committee on transportation will hold a hearing on new TSA procedures this Thursday. TSA administrator John Pistole will testify.

Murkowski Now Leads Miller

For the first time since the election, Lisa Murkowski (aka Daddy’s Little Princess) leads Joe Miller in the official vote count in Alaska. This election was over when Alaska judges decided to bend the rules and hand out lists of write-in candidates to voters — bending the rules for Frank Murkowski’s little princess.

Renewed Fear Over Europe’s Fiscal Footing

Authorities in the European Union are begging Ireland to accept a financial bailout, fearing Portugal and Spain will be dragged down a well. Meanwhile, Greece’s deficit is much larger than expected and somehow that has lead Athens to lash out at Germany.

Ratcheting Up the Fight in Yemen

The United States is looking to increase its role in the battle against Al Qaeda operations in Yemen. Al Qaeda groups in the country were responsible for the recent attempt to bomb cargo planes headed for the United States.