Archive - October 12, 2008 - The Page by Mark Halperin

Asked about his campaign on Missouri TV Sunday, McCain says "I think we're doing fine," adding, "economic challenges are tough." "I don't have any illusions that we're in a tough fight here against a very eloquent opponent," but he's confident he will take the Show-Me State. Also discusses his housing proposals. Click above to watch. Permalink

McCain: I Will Whip Obama's "You-Know-What" in Wednesday's Debate

Speaking to volunteers at his Virginia headquarters Sunday, the Republican makes clear he plans to dominate the final debate this week. "After I whip his you-know-what in this debate, we're going to be going out 24/7," he says of his and Palin's campaigning. Acknowledges being behind nationally, but says poll numbers are headed back his way. Adds: "I respect Senator Obama, we will conduct a respectful race and be sure everyone else does too. But there are stark differences between us." Permalink

Republicans Voice Concern Over McCain Strategy

Some fear the Senator waited too long to attack Obama over Ayers, say the issue doesn't connect with voters. Gingrich: "He has to make the case that he's different than Bush and better than Obama on the economy. If he doesn't win that case, it's all over...." GOP strategist Castellanos: "He doesn't need an attack strategy, he needs a comeback strategy." Plus: Gingrich says he "can't defend" McCain's mortgage proposal. Permalink

Anyone Home?

Sen. Obama stumps door-to-door in a Holland, Ohio neighborhood Sunday. One 38-year-old resident says his visit won her over: "It's really awesome that he takes the time to talk to the middle class and answer questions." Permalink

Biden: McCain "Relying on Political Stunts"

The Bidens and Clintons hold afternoon rally in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where Sen. Biden was born and Sen. Clinton has family roots. Sen. Biden says McCain is "relying on political stunts instead of offering solutions" and making "ugly inferences." "Beyond the attacks, what is John McCain really offering?" Earlier: Bill Clinton speaks and leaves the stage to campaign in Virginia. Sen. Clinton: "If we can pull a big vote out of northeastern Pennsylvania for Barack and Joe, there isn't any way they lose Pennsylvania, and if they win Pennsylvania there's no way they lose the White House!" Watch video of Sen. Clinton here , and read both Clintons' remarks here. Permalink

Palin Rallies Ohio

The GOP vice presidential nominee talks up job growth Sunday in St. Clairsville, Ohio, just west of Pittsburgh. Also hits Obama on several fronts, including the war in Iraq. "Just once I would love to hear Barack Obama say he wants America to win." Permalink

What It Takes: Sunday Edition

HALPERIN'S TAKE: The five most important people in American politics right now -- who aren't running for president. Permalink

European Leaders Agree to Financial Rescue

The 15 nations using the euro plan to spend billions of dollars to shore up their banks, in an agreement announced Sunday in Paris. Leaders from Australia and New Zealand also announce a new guarantee of bank deposits. Permalink

NY Times: McCain's Struggles Trouble GOP Leaders

Many express concern and frustration with Obama's lead in many polls and McCain's apparently shifting campaign strategies. Michigan GOP chair: “...We are running out of time. Our message, the campaign’s message, isn’t connecting.” Leaders disagree on how hard McCain should press the Wright, Ayers issues. Read more from concerned GOP leaders here. Permalink

Ohio Poll: Obama Makes Progress

From the Ohio Newspaper Poll, among likely voters: McCain 48, Obama 46 Obama up four points over the last three weeks; McCain holding steady. Conducted Oct. 4-8. Error margin: 3.3 points. Plus: Obama holds significant lead on Long Island, 50-33 among likely voters. Permalink

McCain to Spend Upcoming Week in Gotham City

Politico: McCain will appear on David Letterman's "Late Show" on Thursday, after abruptly canceling an appearance last month. NY Post: McCain and Palin to attend midtown Manhattan fundraiser Tuesday, their final joint money event. Goal is reportedly to raise $5 million. Permalink

Obama Making Headway in Pennsylvania

Keystone State pollsters and analysts say economic trouble, surge in Democratic registration is giving Obama a substantial lead. Polls show sharp movement toward Obama since the financial crisis exploded. Philadelphia Inquirer: "Some Republicans in the state say privately it is all but impossible for Republican Sen. John McCain to win Pennsylvania." And/but: The McCain camp plans to fight to the end in the Keystone State. , 7:55 AM

Obama Depending on Grassroots in Critical States

NY Times: Obama pushing unprecedented investment in battleground get-out-the-vote efforts. WashPost: Democrats' reliance on local volunteers, "microtargeting" and exurbs/rural areas similar to Rove's successful 2004 effort. TIME: In battleground Virginia, a tale of two ground games. Permalink

Congress May Return After Election

Democrats likely to call lawmakers back for lame-duck session on jobless benefits, food stamps and other economic measures. Obama aides, House leaders in discussions on potential stimulus package. Permalink

Not All Flyers Fans Are Palin Fans

Loud boos, as well as some cheers, greet Gov. Palin Saturday as she dropped the puck at the Flyers' home opener against the Rangers. Gov. Rendell: “Sports and politics, I believe, never mix." Permalink