11.   Compared to Roosevelt and Churchill, whose intellect and conviction truly altered the course of human events, modern politicians seem small, venal and irrelevant.

12.   Corrupt politicians seem not to be gloating more than usual.

13.   Democratic politicians have seemed far less divided on the subject, and their comments have so far been muted.

14.   Every political act is closely analyzed, and every politician seems to have a cadre of aides ready to spin out theories about what is really going on.

15.   Every American politician seems to admire the efficiency of Japanese protectionism, leaving it to Japanese officials to stammer a disclaimer of any special talent.

16.   Few politicians seem less suited for a political comeback than Daniel Ortega.

17.   For one thing, it shows again that the cover-up is worse than the crime, and that politicians never seem to learn that lesson.

18.   In New York, politicians sometimes seem to mock public-disclosure rules.

19.   Japanese politicians in general seem uncomfortable and stiff in public settings but Koizumi thrives in the spotlight.

20.   Lately, politicians seem to have learned little from these legendary goofs.