When government fouls up, TV viewers shouldn't suffer

[Commentary] Two weeks from today, an estimated 7 million households that rely on analog television sets — ones that work off antennas — could see their screens go blank. The temptation is to say, too bad. People had plenty of warning about the impending nationwide switch to digital TV, and an opportunity to apply for $40 coupons toward the cost of converter boxes. Unfortunately, the federal government has so fouled up the changeover that a delay in the Feb. 17 deadline is the least bad alternative. The House could vote on a four-month extension, already passed by the Senate, as soon as Wednesday. Delay is the best option. Seven million households shouldn't have to pay for their government's ineptitude.