It appears that Barack Obama is moving up in the polls, and he currently has leads in the 6 to 7 point range.  Why is this happening?  Here are my guesses.  Barack Obama and John McCain both had uninspiring performances in the first presidential debate, but I found McCain's refusal to look at Obama annoying and damaging to his performance.  Next, we have the suspension of his campaign.  This was obviously political and appeared to backfire on him.  Finally, we have Sarah Palin.  She gave a great speech at the Republican National Convention, but since then, she has been a problem for the campaign.  I shouldn't get nervous when I have to watch her answer basic questions from a reporter.  

     McCain's best chance is to begin acting like himself.  He's been criticized for having a temper, and I think he tries his best to remain even-tempered.  Showing some fire every now and them may not be such a bad thing.  It might also take a little of the focus off his age.  Next on the list is Sarah Palin.  Ideally, Mike Huckabee (my choice for the nomination) would have been chosen as the running mate.  Unfortunately, we have Ms. Palin.  I would schedule few, if any interviews.  Many people think she is over-matched and unprepared.  Why schedule lots if interviews and confirm this fact?  If McCain can win this, Sarah Palin is sure to become the next Dan Quayle.



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