Two Campaigns

Months ago, during the first democratic presidential debates, it appeared that the race was over. Sen. Clinton had a double-digit lead in the Polls. The other candidates seemed to be "fillers" or "also rans". The young senator from Illinois seemed a little inexperienced in debates and not prepared to battle the big bad Clinton political machine. But...A funny thing happened on the way to the convention. Sen. Obama has steadily improved with each subsequent debate. Today on Slate.com, John Dickerson nominated Sen. Obama the "Most Improved Debater". It is no wonder. After reeling off 11 consecutive election wins, Obama could afford to be confident and poised in his final two debate performances. Don't take the bait, Just stay above the fray. In Texas, it was easy. Clinton never really got into attack mode, so for the eloquent Obama, it was a cakewalk. Last night, with her campaign on the proverbial ropes, she had to come out swinging. Last night was a microcosm of the two candidates’ campaigns. Obama rolled gracefully with every punch, never looking off-guard while Clinton seemed angry, frustrated and whiny. She attacked not only her rival but also what she perceives as media bias, claiming that she always gets the first question in debates. Come on Hill, stay strong. Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania are still ahead. It's far from over.