PETA Likes This Byrd

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has named U.S. Sen. Robert C. Byrd, D-W.Va., its 2007 Person of the Year "for his passionate defense of animals throughout six decades of public service."

Noting that the 90-year-old "was a meat cutter in his youth," the group said that Byrd "has evolved into a tireless advocate for improving legal protection for animals, including animals who are slaughtered for food."

PETA notes Byrd's floor speech earlier this year denouncing dogfighting, and his co-authoring of the "American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act" that recently earned him a visit from Bo Derek.

The Associated Press has a story, as does MetroNews.

"PETA does not support or oppose any candidate for public office or any political party," the group noted in its release.