Political Communication
Journal Entries 9/18 – 9/24

Public is judging candidates more by demeanor, than specific solution to economy problem
One reserved ,considered. One angry, flailing around.

McCain too Hot
Obama, too Cool(?)

Body language: McCain uncomfortable standing. Doesn’t know what to do with his hands. Obama Tall, good posture. Moves fluidly. Exudes confidence and consideration (but little passion)

This week left an impression that McCain is impetuous and acts too quickly. There is no reason to pass a bill that quickly. One week… two weeks… all within reason.
Obama needs to make that point. A considered response… not shoot from the hip and then shoot again.

McCain, in an attempt to distract and change the focus moves to ‘suspend’ the campaign and return to handle crises (a lot of use of the word crises). This is a rose garden approach. As if he were an incumbent president, needing to return.

Unfortunately (for him) he is not president, and the move seems forced and foolish.
Refusing to debate is also a mistake.

Democrats in congress should delay a final agreement until at least Saturday no matter what… forcing McCain to capitulate and go to debate anyway… or appear stubborn and petulant by missing it. Either way Obama wins.

Palin is fading fast. Repeating the same words when she doesn’t have an answer is making her look foolish and unprepared to be president. She should stay on message, but get off script.