Inanity returns to the presidential race, and a Jersey Republican defies Grover Norquist

I’m finishing my week filling in at Fresh Air, but still keeping an eye on the momentous events in our region and the world.

I enjoyed this piece by the New York Times Jim Rutenberg on the half-truths, lies and phony outrage that again populates the presidential race.

And here’s a rare sighting: a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate who refuses to sign Grover Norquists’ anti-tax pledge, and even says he’s willing to raise taxes on the wealthy.

Yes, you read that right. It’s New Jersey veteran legislator Joe Kyrillos, who’s waging an uphill battle to unseat Democratic Senator Bob Menendez. He signalled his openness to conversations about tax hikes in the wake of Paul Ryan’s ascension to the GOP presidential ticket.

It will be interesting to see if he gets through his next Republican primary without a tea party challenge.