MCCAIN'S CHALLENGE

In prepping for the next debate. the GOP candidate had better resort to the passion and smarts that I know is there. I've seen in in person, and I don't know what he was thinking in the first debate. He can do what needs to be done, but he could just as easily blow the upbeat mood in the Republican ranks since Palin's comeback on Thursday night. He has to be open, engaging, humorous when approproate. (Both top candidates can learn something from Palin's use of the camera and on how to convey upbeat Reaganeque good natured attitude.) McCain must not focus only on Obama's past tax record but also expose what he's planning to do on all tax levels if elected. The Democrat is out touting how much more he wants to "do" (aka "spend" on behalf of every special interst group, under the guise of "helping" everyday people). This is on top of the bailout/rescue plan passed yesterday. That money has to come from somewhere: taypayers who are already feeling burned. His plan is a real job killer just when the economy is on the ropes... and the ropes are fraying. McCain needs to look forward and portray and clear, understandable picture life under Obama. He also needs to listen during the debate. In fact, both candidates do. Getting off talking points and responding to what's unfolding "here and now"... and in the days ahead.. will be much more interesting. And revealing. Senator McCain needs to do the best job of it. One more note: GW Bush hasn't helped by effectively pushing the nation into much deeper socialism... no matter if it's with the best of motives.

ON THE ROAD: I'm in the Houston area this weekend, having spoken at events for Texas Right to Life last night and today. I'm struck by the contrasts in this area, after such a nasty hurricane, when compared with New Orleans. Yes, Katrina was more intense but there's loads of awful devastation to go around here. Friends in Galveston have had their lives ruined, people of every color facing total disaster. Yet this is being met with wide-spread cooperation and involvement, without much of the finger-pointing we saw after Katrina. Interesting. Part of it has to do with FEMA et al doing a better job, lessons learned. The situation also says much about local and state government. Clearly Texas leaders were smarter than many in positions of power in Lousiana three years ago. No wonder voters there have made some changes in recent months.