I’ve rarely felt so prophetic. And rarely have I felt so disappointed to be proven so prescient.

Remember a couple of weeks ago, when I predicted that the journalistic narrative in the State Auditor’s race would be boiled down to “The Pol and the Wonk”? Grizzled political vet Vince Illuzzi versus the ivory-towered numbers guy Doug Hoffer?

Well, take it away, VTDigger.

State auditor’s race: Policy wonk vs. politician

Dead on. The bulk of the article consists of a lengthy exposition of the stereotype. Illuzzi’s out pressing the flesh, Hoffer is uncomfortable in public and hasn’t spent much time on the hustings. You can almost imagine him reaching for a bottle of Purell after every handshake.

Then, in paragraph 19, the story FINALLY mentions Hoffer’s very lengthy list of public campaign appearances all over the state. Which nicely undercuts the entire thrust of the article. And which can be seen here.

And in the next paragraph, Dem chair Jake Perkinson explains that Hoffer’s perceived lack of visibility might have more to do with his very low campaign budget rather than any aversion to contact with the Great Unwashed.

(And Jake, since you’ve noticed that Doug’s a little short on funds, why not do something about it? Throw a few of Governor Shumlin’s million bucks his way? Or talk to a few donors, tell them Shummy’s got all the money he needs, and urge them to write a check to Hoffer for Auditor?)

Finally, in paragraph 22, Perkinson raises the issue that perhaps Hoffer’s skills are more relevant to the position than are Illuzzi’s. Of course, most readers never make it that deep into an article. So congrats, VTDigger, for doing your bit to cement a stereotype! Now, can I sue you for headline plagiarism?