There is Nothing Vice About Spokane

When you're seen as the number-two city and number-two university in the state you can either embrace it or try and avoid the notion.

Washington State University and Spokane had a chance to host next year's Vice-Presidential debate, and passed, deciding to hold out for one of the Presidential Debates, a gamble that didn't pay off.

We're not sure if their loss is such a big deal. There's little mention of the location of a presidential debate, and all the sets look exactly the same.

Most debates are entirely forgettable, and even if something memorable does happen--does anyone recall where the incredible, even now, "I knew Jack Kennedy" smackdown took place? We think no.

So, sure the hotels lose out by not being able to hang "Mike Huckabee slept here" signs, but they seem to have enough problems with politicians.

We laughed about these debates, but as we thought about it they have had some pretty memorable moments over the years.

2004- John Edwards constantly mentioning Dick Cheney's lesbian daughter.
1996- Jack Kemp passing for 400 yards.
1992- Admiral Stockdale torpedoing the Perot campaign.
1988- The aforementioned--Lloyd Bentsen ending Dan Quayle's career.

It should be pointed out that Washington will host the debate.