You are correct about everything, except the intensive smear campaign began well before the election. Don't underestimate the power of amoral political demagoguery. It has worked many times for the Democrats. Yet, today at least, it is less easy (thankfully) to imagine the rote sleazefest working for the Dems in a general election. There is a bit of irony here -- after whitewashing the most sleazy Clinton behavior, getting traction over Enron, etc., gets tougher.
As for McCain, his behavior is that of a humiliated narcissist. McCain knows better than ordinary people. Political speech is less valuable than advertising beer and Big Macs, and we need less of it, not more. He should have been annointed, in his opwn humble view. He was not, and he seethes in bitterness. I am glad that Bush did not feel compelled to bring him somehow into the administration. He has a dangerous personality.
Excellent point.
I am glad that Bush did not feel compelled to bring him [McCain] somehow into the administration. He has a dangerous personality.
Couldn't agree with you more.