The election-fraud story in the 9th Congressional District has a long way to go, but three things are clear.

First, real news and real journalism are alive and well. I won’t single out any reporter or news outlet, because so many have performed so well. A salute to each and every one of you.

A salute, too, to the sources and the experts who have helped reporters advance the story, especially Dr. Michael Bitzer and Gerry Cohen. To follow the story, follow them on Twitter. (And a salute to North Carolina’s apparently transparent and informative State Board of Elections. Who knew?)

Second, a caution to the media: Next time, don’t be so quick to declare winners on Election Night. We now face a combination of close races plus lots of absentee and provisional ballots. Elections may not be decided for days, weeks or months. This year is no aberration; it’s the new normal. Also, delays don’t mean somebody is “stealing the election.” It’s called “counting the votes.”

Third, a caution to Democrats commenting on #NC09. Don’t be like Dallas Woodhouse – spouting off one day only to find yourself sputtering and stuttering to explain yourself on national TV the next day. Let the story play out. Let the media, the experts and – most of all – the investigators get the facts. Let’s find out who knew what when.