Sarko Hints at Marriage to Bruni

Nicolas Sarkozy alluded to possible wedding bells with supermodel Carla Bruni today, telling a packed press conference that "There is a strong chance that you will learn about it once it's already been done." Calling the relationship "serious," he lashed out at critics who accused him of using his romance to distract from political troubles.

"Carla and I have decided not to lie," said the president, who wants to "break with a hateful tradition of hypocrisy"—a clear swipe at predecessor François Mitterand, who had an illegitimate daughter that the press kept secret for years. Sarkozy's high-flying style seems to be hurting his approval ratings, however—since New Year's they have dropped to the lowest point since his May election. (More Nicolas Sarkozy stories.)