A rare thumbs-up for Geithner, and a big, big hand for Keynes

THE FIFTH COLUMNIST by P.M. Carpenter

Contrary to what circus-barker Republicans are calling everyone to step right up and see as a ghastly economic freak show, there's not a dram of the bizarre in the Obama administration's now coexistent messages of gloom and confidence.

It's neither improper nor novel for the president and his economic team to publicly both brood and beam. You may, for instance, recall from your American history survey course that H. Hoover -- having helped supply-side the economy into a similar depressive condition -- did only the latter, while FDR managed a nicely balanced public relations routine of both "Look out!" and Happy Days.