Social Security vs. Terri Schiavo

SS: Ailing system which became a cause célèbre for conservative Repubicans
TS: Ailing woman who became a cause célèbre for conservative Republicans

SS: Condition diagnosed as “persistent negative cash flow”
TS: Condition diagnosed by doctors as “persistent vegetative state”

SS: Raises public profiles for former US President Franklin D. Roosevelt and saving accounts
TS: Raises public profiles for former anti-abortion leader Randall Terry and feeding tubes

SS: Could be saved by major borrowing and massive benefit cuts
TS: Could be saved by major praying and massive violations of court orders

SS: Unable to speak for itself
TS: Thought to have said “AHHHHHH WAAAAAAA”

WINNER: In two tragic news events this year, the winner is the one that is left alone with dignity intact.