As the White House race rolls on, issues such as Iraq and the economy are taking a backseat lately to more important issues.

Flag pins, boilermakers, and McCain "family recipes."

What is to blame?

Could it be that with the Republican race finished, no end in sight to the Democratic Party presidential nominating contest, both Dem candidates' positions essentially the same, and an increasingly accelerated news cycle — America's TV news outlets need to find creative ways to fill their 24/7 broadcast days?

One thing for certain: It is why cartoonist Mark Fiore invented the cheeky animated America Decides Network.

Although viewers may be left scratching their heads watching the "real" coverage, TV station owners are counting their blessings. There is an economic incentive to the uncertainty that comes with a lengthy campaign season: Higher ad revenues thanks to more commercials. Local broadcasters are the big winners.