The American Spectator

p> LOSING THE DEBATE br> Re: Philip Klein’s Hillary Unhinged : /p> p>…”the idea that Hillary was…qualified because she served as first lady was always a farce.” Mr. Klein nails it dead on with this sentence. The “I’m Mrs. Bubba” act got her out of the gate OK last fall, but by Christmas, everyone was waiting for something new to kick in. Nothing ever did. br> — Ty Knoy br> Ann Arbor, Michigan /p>

Senator Clinton last audacious hopes are quickly fading and the thrill of watching Hillary self-destruct has not lessened one iota. Many warned against taking too much comfort in this schadenfreude (including me) because Obama looked to be a much more formidable opponent: more likeable and less baggage, but the worm is turning. Just as in his second debate against (then) Governor Peanut (Jimmy Carter), President Ford’s assertion that Poland was not under Soviet domination ushered in his downfall. Senator Obama’s contra-factual statement that al Qaeda is not currently in Iraq will frighten any American who is not already enthralled by the Obama Franchise.

The junior Senator of Illinois is leading with his chin when he gets into a fight about America’s security, military and intelligence with Senator McCain. When McCain corrected Obama on Obama’s statement that AQ is not present Iraq, Obama looked to clarify (obfuscate) his meaning: AQ came in only after America liberated (on in Democrat speak, invaded) Iraq. This exchange further highlights Obama’s weakness: he is a dove with a stubborn streak. Obama is not about to let this bone go, or at least Team McCain won’t allow him that luxury. (The mainstream press may let Obama have another free pass, but the honeymoon may just be over.) BHO best move would be to admit he misspoke on AQ in Iraq, or he can admit that Al Qaeda was present with Saddam Hussein’s blessing. If he chooses the former, he appears to be naively or stubbornly blind to the facts. If he chooses the latter, he will have to justify his opposition to liberating Iraq from a dictator who was providing protection and comfort to an actively hostile enemy of the U.S.

p>”Ding Dong, the witch is dead.” And this time around, the American public knows that the Wizard of Oz is simply a man who has great showmanship. In the words of The Who, “We won’t be fooled again.” br> —