Like yesterday, the political world is fairly quiet today, with much of the attention focused on Hurricane Irene. For those who felt the brunt yesterday, here’s to a speedy recovery. For those affected today, stay safe. For those to the west and/or south of the storm’s path, thanks for putting up with all this coverage of a hurricane that doesn’t affect you directly.

Under the circumstances, after publishing the earlier items, I thought it best to post a Sunday Open Thread, though I’ll be around in the event of key developments. (If I lose power, I won’t be able to weigh in, whether key developments happen or not.)

The floor is yours.

Our ideas can save democracy... But we need your help! Donate Now!

Follow Steve on Twitter @stevebenen. Steve Benen is a producer at MSNBC's The Rachel Maddow Show. He was the principal contributor to the Washington Monthly's Political Animal blog from August 2008 until January 2012.