So AG Holder writes the Russians to tell them Snowden won't face the death penalty and won't be tortured and so has no grounds for seeking asylum. You'll excuse me while I let out a guffaw. The surveillance state is just so desperate for the truth to remain as far away as possible from the American people, isn't it?

Ramona's Voices: The fate of Detroit's art treasures.

They Gave Us a Republic: The GOP's impossible climb on race.

Phantom Public: The most threatened ex-president, for now.

The Rude Pundit: The fight for abortion rights in Chile.

Infidel753: The difference between humans and other animals.

Round-up by Michael J.W. Stickings of The Reaction (Twitter: @mjwstickings). I'll be here through Sunday.

Send requests and suggestions to mbru AT crooksandliars DOT com.