I’ve heard Sidney Bluemthal called "the first blogger" before, and I don’t know any serious liberal political blogger who hasn’t been influenced — either directly or indirectly — by his style.  His superb political instincts, his insightful observations and his witty, acerbic style have long been a welcome oasis of clarity and sanity amongst the usual obtuse  hacks and who dominate modern political discourse.

The former Clinton senior advisor will be joining us at the FDL Book Salon to discuss his new book, How Bush Rules: Chronicles of a Radical Regime. Part I of the discussion will be on September 24 and Sidney himself will be by to chat with readers on October 1. The FDL Book Salon meets every Sunday at 2pm PT/5pm ET so please join us. I’m really looking forward to this one.

In the mean time, Sidney has a great essay on what he has learned since 9/11 entitled What Are We Fighting For?  Enjoy.