Writer – Marv Wolfman
Artist – Steve Ditko
Inker – Steve Ditko
Colours – Roger Slifer
Letters – John Costanza

Senator Brickman is obsessed to say the least.  He thinks the only way he can become president is to bring about the downfall of Machine Man.  Exactly how that is supposed to elevate him to office is beyond most everyone, but it is in his head to do as such.  So during this issue he embroils a scientist in his scheme to power up a man with some cosmic juice who then becomes just as powerful as X-51 and proceeds to frame him for various crimes.  In the end of course, X-51 overcomes and saves the man and reverses the process, reuniting him with his family.  Wolfman and Ditko provide another good issue with this one being a bit more exciting and full of intrigue than they have been of late.  Steve Ditko’s pencils are great and truly are a perfect fit for this book.  The only problem with the book is that it is never truly exciting.  Good – yes.  Entertaining, sure.  But it has never had that standout moment which is a shame.  So far anyways.

3.5 out of 5