Looks like a pretty good move.
If Barry doesn’t go back to Washington, he can be slammed for not doing his duty as a Senator. He can no longer claim to be a leader when he refuses to lead.
If Barry does return, he is following McCain’s lead. Not to mention that he is completely ineffective in the Senate so he won’t be leading there either. Meanwhile, Palin is free to campaign against Biden or no one if he returns to DC.
Finally, McCain can always go to the debate. If Barry had a surprise attack on the economy planned, it won’t work since McCain can call him out on not returning. If McCain performs poorly, he has an excuse.
Good analysis. Hope you’re right.