Not a Proud Moment for Pelosi

Although the Republicans look whiny when they cite her floor speech as a reason for the Bailout's failure. More details here.

The Debate

Both these guys strike me as consummate politicians (and no, I don't mean that as a compliment). Both dodged the issue about cutting spending in light of lower tax revenues and the economic slowdown. Meanwhile, Obama's attempt t0 out-tough McCain on foreign policy seems forced. But McCain's attempt to claim that Obama is as stubborn as Bush is even weirder.

Republican Opposition to the Bailout

The conventional wisdom is that Democrats benefit when the conversation turns to the economy. You might think that the opposition of conservative Republican House members to the bailout could provide a boost to McCain's campaign insofar as it distances him from Bush, who is pushing the plan. But to make that work, I think McCain would have to be (far) more comfortable discussing economic issues than he is. So I think McCain still loses on this.

Buck Naked Politics has a good summary.

The Debate Should Go On

At least, that's what most Americans think.

Paulson's Bio

Turns out he's a nature-loving Christian Scientist. (Or at least was). Who knew?

Funky Intrade Contracts

Nate Silver thinks someone is gaming Obama and McCain contracts at Intrade.

Right now, Obama is trading at 52.3 points. That is, Intrade implies that he has a 52.3 percent chance to become the next President.

Now, I happen to think that is a patently absurd price. But you don't have to take my word for it. Over at BetFair, another large UK-based gambling and futures site, you can also buy an Obama contract. But the price there is 1.62, which implies a 61.7 percent chance that Obama will become the next President.

I agree that Obama has a better than 52% chance of winning. Worth a look.