In the wake of the recent decision to keep Dennis Kucinich from participating in the South Carolina democratic debate, it looks as if the little man we love to crack jokes about is dropping out of the campaign entirely. And with the other minority candidates flagging with him, so goes much of what was left of the free exchange of ideas in this primary bout. Sure, Kucinich often seemed far too simplistic with regard to our exit strategy in Iraq, but to think that was the extent of his contribution to the national conversation would be a mistake.

In particular, we can point you to an excellent Truthdig article which highlights Kucinich’s very timely, yet rarely discussed, position on abuses within the American banking industry. Especially considering the recent tumult in the stock market, this seems like exactly the sort of issue our leading contenders for the presidency should be discussing.

We’re pretty big Obama fans around here these days, but it will be sad to see Kucinich go. And in particular, it will be sad to see these issues of substance take a backseat to the pandering and glad-handing that will likely make up the remainder of the primary season.

See you on Super Tuesday. Yee haw.