This piece by Joe Klein is an extraordinary look at the way Senator Obama deals with crisis and decision-making. The opening section about his trip to Iraq and meeting with General Petraeus is such a breath of fresh air to be sure, but it pales in comparison to the section about the economic crisis.
Apparently, when McCain suspended his campaign and flew back to Warshington, Senator Obama was in the midst of debate prep in Tampa. Democratic villagers urged Senator Obama to follow McCain -- or McCain might appear more presidential.
Of course, this is the traditional Democratic instinct. To follow. To scurry from point to point without direction. To constantly play on Republican turf rather than defining a a separate path. And of course Senator Obama ignored the leadership and remained calm -- detemined to debate on schedule with or without McCain.
"You gotta be kidding. I'm going to debate. A President has to be able to do more than one thing at a time."
Who turned out to be right?