In thinking about the week that was, it strikes me that McCain has been unually nasty this week -- probably in part because of his new team taking charge, partly because of his tendency to open the mouth before the brain is engaged, but mostly, I think, because of Obama's week ahead.
The media pundits have spent the last two days, ad nauseum, talking about the potential risks and benefits of Obama's trip. The risk is that he might embarass himself on the national stage (not likely IMHO). The benefits are that he is travelling with the top anchors of the major networks and is expected to be met with his usual adoring crowds. As a result, according to the pundits, we can expect non-stop media coverage of Obama as POTUS in training for the next week or so.
It's the one area where McCain has a perceived advantage -- as a potential commander in chief -- although why I don't know. His knowledge of world affairs and history seems pretty unimpressive to me -- I'd put Barack up against him on Jeopardy any time! Furthermore, given his known temper and propensity to say whatever pops into his head, I really don't want him as the one in charge in a crisis. In any event, this trip will give Obama a good opportunity to be seen as a world leader and make up some ground against McCain in this area -- it should help convince some of the people at home that he is quite capable in that regard.
So I think McCain's people have been pushing to get whatever press coverage they can before his trip starts -- even if they've had to release McCain's first negative ad and distort Obama's positions and track record more than usual. Take your best shot guys....I'm guessing it's not going to help you much.