Also Ann Althouse

From an odd thing that appeared un-summoned in the editorial in-box, an AP story.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin Republicans seem to have it all.

Native son Paul Ryan is Mitt Romney's running mate. Gov. Scott Walker is a national conservative hero after surviving a recall vote. Former Gov. Tommy Thompson is vying to capture an open Senate seat held for more than 50 years by Democrats. And Wisconsin's own Reince Priebus heads the Republican National Committee.

Now they're focusing on the crown jewel: delivering Wisconsin's 10 electoral votes for Romney. It won't be easy. Barack Obama cruised to victory by 14 points four years ago, and maintains a slight lead over Romney in polls. And Wisconsin hasn't gone for a Republican presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan in 1984.

Still, the fact that the goal is even plausible shows how much Wisconsin's politics have changed in the few years since GOP nominee John McCain was blown out here in 2008 and Democrats held control of the statehouse. Wisconsin has a long tradition of political moderation, but voters have become more conservative since the recession slammed the economy and government deficits rose. A group of rising GOP leaders has taken advantage with a message that relentlessly emphasized jobs and making government less costly.

[Yada yada yada AP-style.]

Professional Althouse-related courtesy.