That is why self-evalution and self-criticism is so crucial at this point if we are to maintain a clear and subjective perspective of how effectively our candidate is projecting our (yes, our) goals and views to the world.
1. Kerry won on style but many sound bites will come back to haunt him -- global test; we didn't need that tax cut; and many more.
2. By getting Kerry back in the game (to some degree), Bush has given pseudo hope to the RATS. As a consequence, rather than abandoning Kerry now in order to save RAT Senate and House candidates, Bush may have ironically helped our down-ballot candidates.
3. I believe there was some danger of the President peaking too early, as Nixon did in 1968. Don't need to worry about that now.
4. Women co-workers tell me that suburban Moms and moderate women do not want a president fighting in the mud... that Bush was smart to remain "above the fray."
Remember the MSM in 1980 believed that Carter beat Reagan in their debate, because Carter controlled the tempo and direction of the discussion, Reagan was on defense etc etc.
Sound familiar?
Exactly!