An "October Surprise" From USDE?

Democrats are worrying themselves silly about some sort of October Surprise from the White House that would turn the midterm elections away from them, when they probably should be worrying more about shooting themselves in the foot. This, sad to say, is probably all that the administration can muster: Money starts flowing in teacher bonus program (CNN). Not much, I know.

UPDATE: Joe Williams goofs on the rollout here: "Education Secretary Margaret Spellings and her SLG's are set to hotwire Ed McMahon's sweepstakes van on Monday and start touring the country, doling our larger-than-life bonus checks to teachers who are showing strong performance."