all-encompassingly

John Edwards is putting forth a valiant effort to enhance his trial lawyer, money-grubbing cred.

When you visit the John Edwards for President Web site, you’re invited to send a sympathy note to the Edwardses. And tens of thousands of well wishers have done so since that heart-wrenching news conference two weeks ago at which Elizabeth Edwards courageously discussed her incurable cancer.

What those well wishers get in return — e-mail messages soliciting contributions to Edwards’s campaign.

So, I went to his site and sent a brief note wishing them well while they faced this new health challenge. Here is what the “Thank You” screen said once I had sent the note:

Thanks for your message. Elizabeth and I are so grateful for your prayers and wishes. Your support means a great deal to us during this difficult time.

This doesn’t exactly scream “expect to receive a fund raising pitch in a couple days!” Maybe if Edwards could rephrase it to “Elizabeth and I are so grateful for your prayers and wishes (and I could use some benjamins…my people will contact you shortly).”

A sad commentary on the candidate, the campaign, and the political process in general.

UPDATE: I got an email from the Edwards campaign today. From press reports it looks like they’ve modified what they were sending out before, albeit there are still links to make a donation.