"Plame Shows Theatrical Side of Congress"

WASHINGTON (AP) - Just like a Broadway play, congressional hearings have many acts.

There is drama, humor and plenty of jockeying for top billing. Sometimes a "star" witness is called to answer legislators' questions.

But often those doing the asking really covet the bright lights for themselves. It is even more the case when the television cameras are rolling or, like now, when some lawmakers need the exposure for their presidential campaigns.

Some ask plenty of pointed questions, prompting testy exchanges with witnesses. Some ask plenty of leading questions. Some pose no questions at all, preferring the sound of their own voices. And legislators are quick to cut witnesses off when they do not like the answers.

http://apnews1.iwon.com/article/20070318/D8NU9LLG2.html

I think this writer wuvs the pubs.

Everyone raves about british parliament, but it's the same deal. Yelling and name calling, but backslapping and gladhanding afterwards in the hallways.