It might be a bit risky, but switching debate topics to economics puts McCain even more on the defensive...
While Barack might have been planning for foreign policy, I'd count on him to be much sharper and a quicker study for an economic debate than McCain.
Here's possible by-products of calling McCain's bluff:
- If McCain sticks to "suspending" (nice Freudian slip) his campaign and nixes an economic debate, it underscores that he's running scared all the more. What's more appropriate than talking about the economy at this time?
- A conciliatory tone from Obama can further entrench the perception that he's the better candidate on the economy. If McCain attacks, he undercuts the logic of suspending politics to solve economic problems. If McCain plays nice, I imagine it only reinforces the public's idea that Obama is more capable on the economy. Since Obama is already in the lead, McCain is hemmed in here on how to catch up.
- As I mentioned in an open-thread comment, this would be a great time to draw a contrast in terms of temperament and leadership skills. Already, Obama surrogates are focusing on how this moment is one that tests leadership abilities. Barack can come out even stronger as a leader who doesn't panic and has the insight and judgment to multi-task and think things through.
Of course, it doesn't hurt if the media and netroots keep pushing the idea that McCain's "suspension" is a political gimmick and/or a sign that his campaign is flailing.
Or, Barack goes to Washington, hammers out a solution backed by Dem majority in Congress, and throws McCain a few crumbs to look magnanimous!
Any other ideas out there?