Everyone please drop what they're doing to pay attention to what could be a scandal or maybe it's just the normal way things go, or maybe it's a way to cut into Michelle Obama's likeability ratings. Who really knows, because this is the Article That Says Nothing But Suggests Everything.

We begin with the unsourced quotes about the Head Florist in the White House.

But the recent exit of head florist Laura Dowling, who’d been in the job since 2009, has been a much quieter affair. So hush hush, in fact, that most outside of 1600 Penn knew nothing about it. There’s still no official comment on why Dowling is no longer at the White House, but according to a source with close ties to current residence staffers, she was escorted from the building on Friday Feb. 13.

Of course, whenever anyone quits and turns over their keycards or access, they're escorted out. It's just that there was no official comment, don't you see?

Said floral designer did issue an official statement in response to the Washington Post query, however.

After almost 6 years as Chief Floral Designer at the White House, I have resigned in order to pursue exciting new opportunities and explore my passion for floral artistry and design. Over the next few weeks and months, I’ll be launching a new platform for my work as an author, speaker, instructor and design consultant that builds on the creative ideas and partnerships I’ve formed during my tenure there. It’s been such an honor to work at the White House and I will always be grateful for this incredible opportunity.”

And Michelle Obama's office also sent them a statement:

“As Chief Florist, Laura Dowling and her team treated guests of the White House to their beautiful floral arrangements. Ms. Dowling’s creations were always lively and colorful, reflecting not only the season but the unique and historic rooms which they graced. No two arrangements were ever the same and each one left guests with a lasting impression of the elegance and history of the People’s House. We are grateful for her contribution over the years and wish her well”

But, but...Michelle Obama!!!!!

“This absolutely comes from the top. The first lady has the final say,” explained Kate Andersen Brower, author of the upcoming book, “The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House.” Andersen Brower first heard of Dowling’s departure from three former residence staffers.

Oh, I see. Pimping a book dishing about the First Lady, are we?

Digby points out that there's a lingering stench of the feeding frenzy over the White House travel office back in the Clinton days -- faint, but there anyway.

Ok, so the Clinton connection might be a bit thin, even for the Village. But obviously Michelle Obama was unhappy with the floral arrangements for some reason. So she fired the florist without so much as a by-your-leave or a fare-thee-well. Now why would that be, hmmmmm?

I have no idea and obviously neither does the journalist who wrote this but it would be irresponsible not to hint darkly at something.

I guess Jeff Bezos' vision for the Washington Post is to make it into the next National Enquirer?