Why yes, we are still bitter

CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina -- John Edwards, whose vice presidential candidacy lost Democrats the White House last fall, has a new part-time job at the University of North Carolina law school.

Edwards, whose political inexperience and trial lawyer ties made him an easy target for Republican critics during last year's campaign, began his new job on Tuesday. The former one-term senator, whose strong North Carolina accent alienated northern voters while failing to win over any converts in the south, will earn $40,000 a year for his new position. His salary will be paid from private funds raised by the university from grateful Republican donors.

Asked if he had made a decision on whether to run for president in 2008, Edwards said no, "but I'd be happy for another vice presidential nomination and the opportunity to torpedo yet another promising candidate's chances."

Gene Nichol, who as law school dean recruited Edwards to the new post, said that he expects Edwards to make a lasting contribution to the university. "And just think of all the funds we'll raise by selling 'DON'T BLAME ME, I WOULD HAVE VOTED FOR KERRY IF EDWARDS HADN'T BEEN ON THE TICKET' bumper stickers and T-shirts," he added.