A trio of fallen Tar Heels

(BY ROB CHRISTENSEN, The News & Observer) - We now know that the three major Tar Heel political figures of this decade had feet made of clay.

Just five years ago, Sen. John Edwards was the Democratic vice presidential nominee, Sen. Elizabeth Dole was rising in the Senate GOP leadership, and Gov. Mike Easley was regarded as an up-and-comer in the Democratic Party.

It's not just that their political careers are over. Their public images have cracked.