This just in…

Phoenix, AZ – In a turn of events that has baffled observers from across the political spectrum, John McCain has endorsed J.D. Hayworth in his quest to become Arizona’s newest Republican Senator, but refused to drop from the Senate race.

“My friends, I take this opportunity now to endorse J.D. Hayworth,” said Senator McCain in a press conference this morning.  “His strong stance on defending America’s borders and stalwart conservatism make him the best candidate to represent Arizona in the Senate.  I look forward to continuing my campaign against him.”

Hayworth was not immediately available for comment.  However, an aide to the Hayworth campaign said  “While this comes as something of a surprise, J.D. appreciates this acknowledgment of his credentials by Senator McCain.”

Other reactions were not so positive.

“I’ve been following politics in this country for 27 years, and I’ve never seen a move this bizarre,” a political consultant who spoke to us on condition of anonymity stated.  “I have no idea what McCain’s strategy is in all of this.”

McCain’s staff has not returned our phone calls and refused to comment when asked about the endorsement.

I’ll admit right now that my inconsiderable powers of amateur punditry have failed me.  I have absolutely no idea what McCain is thinking.  You endorse your opponent, but don’t leave the race?  Is “maverick” John McCain playing games with everyone again?  I mean, he may as well have endorsed Obama for President, but to actually come out and do it for Hayworth?  I thought this man wanted to retain his seat.

Yes, this is an April fool’s prank.  Everything I’ve stated here was fabricated out of thin air and has nothing to do with reality in any manner, shape, or form.  I’m pretty sure you’ve realized this by now, but I’ll keep my bases covered anyway.  I mean, there have been people who’ve linked to The Onion as real news, so I’ll just be direct in telling you that this is an prank.  None of this actually happened.  Really.

Not that it wouldn’t be cool if it had…