According to the New York Times today, a secret Republican memo circulating the senate floor outlining the political advantages of jumping on the Terri Shaivo bandwagon originated from a top aide in the office of Senator Mel Martinez (R-Fla). Martinez, in true Republican fashion, denied knowing anything about it and totally blamed it on Brian Darling, his counsel.

Senator Bill Frist (R-Tenn) quickly denied ever seeing the memo. Frist probably didn’t have to see the memo to know what was in it since he could telepathically diagnose Terry Shiavo without ever seeing her.

Also, according to the New York Times, Martinez said he mistakenly and unknowingly handed the document to Senator Tom Harkin (D-Ia) on the floor of the Senate. Martinez said that he had meant to reach for a different document and that he did not know how it had entered his possession. How do you ackowledge not wanting to give that document to Harkin while saying you never knew you had the document?

He handed it right over to the Dems! Maybe there’s hope - they aren’t so smart after all. Congratulations Mel Martinez, you have eared your stipes as a Republican Whore.