In '08, Drudge Coming More Out of Left Field

The powerhouse news-aggregating Drudge Report is surprising its loyal fan base by straying from typically conservative output, Politico observes. Editor Matt Drudge had gained the affection of Republicans and ire of Democrats through previous election cycles, but this time the reclusive blogger has displayed a certain fondness for Barack Obama, while damaging Hillary Clinton and John McCain's presidential bids.

“It’s clear … Barack Obama has won the Drudge Primary, and it's one of the most important primaries in this process,” said a Clinton aide. Drudge's links have highlighted the energy of the Obama campaign and downplayed its scandals while spotlighting McCain's political mishaps. "His photos often played into the worst stereotypes of McCain," a GOP strategist said. "Cranky, old or nuts—or all three in some.” (More Barack Obama stories.)