A briefing book prepared for Iowa Gov. Chet Culver (D) -- lost and obtained by reporters -- illustrates the tough challenges facing him as he seeks re-election.
Ben Smith: "The 86-page briefing book is a detailed guide for Culver to the 20 stops on the statewide tour announcing his reelection this week, and its loss is an unusual political slip. Its most striking feature is a reminder, stop by stop, of the reason Culver is often viewed as the underdog: The state's rising unemployment."
"The briefing book also offers a glimpse at the campaign trail from the
point of view of the candidate, with its number repetition and detailed
instructions from handlers."