Washington, DC, USA. Media Ranger is alarmed to learn that Senator Larry Craig (R-Idaho) has advertised for applications from prospective interns for the summer term (May-August), with a deadline set for 15 March 2008. Craig's fancy footwork led to a misdemeanor guilt plea in Minnesota after he was accused of soliciting sex in the mens' room using the now infamous "foot tapping code". Craig has since announced that this current senate term is his last and will retire at the end of the year when the current Congressional session ends.

US Senators typically hire paid and unpaid interns for summer work doing innocuous tasks while they familiarize themselves with working in Washington.

Craig's office says preference will be given to Idaho applicants attending Idaho schools in their junior or senior years of college. Ordinarily, interns are evaluated for their experience and interests, then paired with staff members to "best utilize their talents".

Your Media Ranger, ever vigilant, called the Senator's ofice and asked whether the kids can bring along a nanny qualified in martial arts to accompany them as they wend their way through the corridors of power.

The senator's office refused comment.

Craig is quoted on his website as saying "Interns have the chance to be an essential part of a working congressional office," said Craig. "They participate in the legislative process as well as ensure that constituent services run smoothly. For those interested in politics, it is an incredible opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at how our government functions while serving the people of Idaho."

Actually, interns in most Senate offices perform basic administrative duties, such as greeting constituents, answering phones, and sorting mai