And politics seems even stranger when people try to impose clear categories on political people. Every time I see somebody tearing into the stereotype of conservative Christians I wince, and think of our past conversations about diversity of religious belief on the Right. But what can you do?

Labelling a politician as intelligent is dangerous in America, because it triggers an anti-intellectual bigotry in a lot of people. Adlai Stevenson's egghead was a fatal political liability, while Reagan and Bush II played the downhome simpleton card to advantage. But I'd say that Ford's chances are better because he also seems tough and resolute, and not the kind of guy to back down from a fight just because there are two sides to every story. When smart people are in charge people worry about whether they'll be able to make up their minds, so demonstrating resolution is vital for a smart politician.