Setting expectations is a key part of modern politics. The Republicans have been masters at it over the years, just as they have generally played the public relations game far better than Democrats. And for quite some time now, the media, and to be fair many Democrats, have been quietly talking up the idea that John McCain is a tired, dull campaigner. From the infamous green backdrop in New Orleans to the reputation for monotone delivery, we've been getting the idea that however John McCain can fire up his troops and get the attention of independents, it isn't through public speaking.
That dangerously plays into the expectations game, and we ought to be thankful that a reality check comes today from an unlikely source -- The Politico, which points out that conventions bring out McCain's best oratory. As they remind us today, on three occasions McCain has given memorable convention speeches -- in 1988, when he brushed off Michael Dukakis as one who “seems to believe that the Trident is a chewing gum, that the B-1 is a vitamin pill and the Midgetman is anyone shorter than he is,” in 1996 when he gave his nominating paean to Bob Dole's World War II service a topical resonance by connecting it to the Vietnam generation, and in 2004 when he rabble-roused Madison Square Garden by laying into Michael Moore.
Recognition of McCain's abilities as a stump speaker has already come from his local press, ever keener than the national media to show the 72 year old for what he is, warts and all, without mythologizing any mavericky tendencies or pushing the mistaken notion that he is a dull campaigner.
So just remember these past performances by McCain before you buy into any expectation lowering spiel from McCain himself, the corporate media or the Republican Party. And post on blogs and contact national media if necessary to set expectations appropriately -- McCain on a good day can deliver a stump speech to compete with anyone. Anyone.