OBAMA HAS NOW REACHED THE STAGE IN HIS PRESIDENCY where he’s consistently mocked by Maureen Dowd. For Republicans in the White House, this happens in January of their first year in office, but for Democrats it indicates a significant phase-change. This is because Dowd wants to be cool, which means that when she starts mocking a Dem President, it has become okay to do so even within the bubble occupied by Democratic pundits.

But “So how can you blame me for wanting to unwind on the course or for five hours at dinner with my former assistant chef? He’s a great organic cook, and he’s got a gluten-free backyard putting green.” Oh, my.

UPDATE: Judging from the comments, while Dowd might be regarded as a lagging indicator by people who are paying attention to politics, for the typical New York Times reader she’s actually a leading indicator. . . .