Ohio Governor John Kasich got the booby prize today; the warm embrace of the New York Times.

The Times endorsed Kasich for president, along with another conservative favorite Hillary Clinton. 

Clinton, a front-runner facing a strong challenge from Senator Bernie Sanders, and Kasich, who has only dimly registered in the polls, received the endorsements from one of the nation's largest newspapers two days before voters in Iowa hold the first nominating contest for the Nov. 8 election.

"Mr Sanders does not have the breadth of experience or policy ideas that Mrs Clinton offers," the board wrote, after praising him for making important points about economic inequality and foreign policy.

The board praised Clinton's term as secretary of state from 2009 to 2013, and said she had shown a lifelong commitment to American workers, particularly women. The board criticized her as too quick to propose using military force abroad, but said she still would be a better military leader than her Republican rivals.

Who wrote that paean to Hillary - Rip Van Winkle or the Times editorial board? They obviously slept through Clinton's stint as secretary of state - one of the most disastrous in history. And the idea that Hillary has fought for "workers" - meaning unions - is also a subject to be debated.

But what about Johnny Kasich?

Kasich, the governor of Ohio, was the only candidate in the crowded Republican field the board said it was able to stomach.

"Gov. John Kasich of Ohio, though a distinct underdog, is the only plausible choice for Republicans tired of the extremism and inexperience on display in this race," the board wrote.

It said Kasich had "been capable of compromise and believes in the ability of government to improve lives."

The board said that front-runner Donald Trump did not have experience of international issues or interest in learning about them. It said Ted Cruz would "say anything to win."

So, our congratulations go out to Governor Kasich. I'm sure Republicans will respond accordingly to this wet kiss from the Times.