McCain's dilemma

John McCain boasts that he knows the difference between tactics and strategy, so he must recognize that the final weeks of his campaign against Barack Obama are plagued with difficulties in both realms. His strategic goal -- to run as the more experienced, worldly and wiser candidate -- is undermined by an electorate stubbornly unwilling to regard him as more presidential than his rival. And his tactical response, to challenge Obama with increasing ferocity, is only making matters worse.

October 8, 2008