Funniest joke I've heard this year...

And a tip o' the hat to The Conservative Deflator, who posted this at Political Animal for me to promptly steal...

The old priest lay dying in the hospital. For years he had faithfully served the people of the nation's capital. He motioned for his nurse to come near. "Yes, Father?" said the nurse. "I would really like to see President Bush and Vice President Cheney before I die." whispered the priest. "I'll see what I can do, Father" replied the nurse.

The nurse knew someone who worked at the White House, so she sent an urgent request right over and waited for a response. Since their approval ratings were under 30%, Bush and Cheney replied that they would be delighted to visit the dying priest.

As they were on their way to the hospital, Bush commented to Cheney "Dick, I don't know why the old priest wants to see us, but it certainly might help our support among Catholics." Cheney agreed.

When they arrived at the priest's room, the priest took Bush's hand in his right hand and Cheney's hand in his left. There was silence and a look of serenity on the old priest's face. Finally President Bush spoke. "Father, of all the people you could have chosen, why did you choose us to be with you as you near the end of your life?"

The old priest slowly replied "I have always tried to pattern my life after our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

"Amen" said Bush.

"Amen" said Cheney.

The old priest continued..."He died between two lying thieves. I would like to do the same."