As previously indicated, we’re in Lite Blogging mode today because it is a federal holiday. And it’s also a slow news day so far, as is indicated by the high placement in news aggregators of whining by the White House press corps about their lack of access to the president’s golf outing in Florida. But here are some other mid-day nibbles:
* CPAC’s speaker lineup next month so far includes, as expected, Cantor, McConnell, Rubio, Paul the Younger, and Ted Cruz. More surprising are Jeb Bush, and, defying her political obituaries, St. Joan of the Tundra.
* Speaking of the Savior of the Republican Party, Rubio is visiting Jerusalem this week, complete with a meeting with Bibi–an important box to check for anyone considering presidential run.
* Estimated 35,000 march on the Mall to oppose Keystone XL Pipeline. See Sam Knight’s report from yesterday.
* WaPo’s Jennifer Rubin not shrieking “betrayal!” yet at apparent inclination of McCain and Graham to demur on extended filibuster of Hagel confirmation, but she’s getting warmed up.
* Nebraska’s Johanns joins list of 2014 Senate retirees after just one term.
And in non-political news:
* Maker’s Mark backs down on plan to reduce alcohol content of its famous bourbon; Wonkblog’s Neil Irwin provides backstory.
Back within the hour.
