I just noticed this today–Microsoft Live Search has this “xRank” feature that sort of graphs the noise that’s generated on different topics, with links to sites. It’s kind of a handy one-stop shop if you’re looking for a starting point on current issues.
For example, here’s the current page for Palin.
Disclosure: I work at a large software company based in Redmond. This post isn’t intended as shilling; I genuinely do think it’s kinda neat. Nonetheless, if a mod wishes to delete this thread as inappropriate advertisement, I’ll totally understand.