July 8th Cover of the NY TIMES

Two photos are displayed on the cover of today's  NY Times newsprint.

 

The first photo catches your eye not just because of its size but also because of Theresa Heinz Kerry's bright orange suit jacket.  From left to right: Elizabeth Edwards, Edwards' 6 year old daughter - Emma Claire, John Edwards his hand resting atop his son - Jack's - head, John Kerry, Theresa Heinz Kerry and Andre Heinz, Kerry's stepson.  All are looking presidential and accomplished.  They're formally dressed.  All have suit jackets.  But it's not a picture of Kerry or Edwards but of Theresa.  

Jack is sucking his thumb and Theresa is leaning across the front of the picture, her finger taps Jack's hand right by his thumb.  She's obviously trying to get Jack to stop sucking his thumb.  Edwards hand rests protectively on his son's head and there's something odd about the smile on Elizabeth Edwards' face.  I don't believe the picture is a flattering one.  Of all the pictures the NY TIMES could choose to illustrate this new alliance - why this one?  Did they think it highlighted some sort of schism between Kerry and Edwards? What is the story they're trying to sell here?  

Juxtapose this one with the smaller picture just below the crease.  Bush is surrounded by children.  His coat is off and his serving up koolaid.  He looks comfortable, relaxed.  A man comfortable with kids.  He looks like a big kid himself in some respects, accepting them as they are.

Taken together, I'm not comfortable with the comparison being made.  Has anyone else had a chance to look at the cover of today's NY Times?  Am I the only one who is having this reaction?  

(Note: The piece was by Jodi Wilgoren.)