Several diaries popped up on Monday complaining (in fervent, outraged tones) about Bill Clinton's media appearances. The complaints were predictable. Bill didn't do enough to promote Obama; he dared praise McCain.
Well, I just watched the Big Dog on Letterman and his approach was masterful. And I would be really surprised if his tactics aren't being coordinated with the Obama campaign.
For those of you concerned that he's not ripping into McCain and not delivering a robust endorsement of Obama, take a moment and think about who his target audience is...
There is no block of Clinton-devoted Democrats who don't plan to vote for Obama. Barack has the base. Hardcore Republicans aren't going to listen to Bill Clinton. But what about the 5-10% of low-information swing voters who haven't made up their minds? How exactly should an ex-President court those votes?
Bill Clinton is using his media appearances to play the elder statesman, the voice of reason. He doesn't damage his "neutral" credibility by cheerleading for Obama. He speaks in lofty terms about how McCain and Obama are good men. He explains, as a political scholar, that both men have a "psychological claim on the presidency" that appeals to different groups of voters. Bill Clinton is speaking to and for Americans who just aren't sure.
And then he closes the circle. Bill said that many Americans would still be uncertain as they entered the voting booth. And they would think to themselves that they admire John McCain because of the great sacrifice he had made for his country. But that in the end, they would vote for the candidate who will change the direction of this country, the candidate who will be best for their family and their future. And that that's why Barack Obama will win. This is a much more effective approach to undecided voters than coming off as just another partisan.
Bill Clinton is giving Americans permission to vote for Barack Obama, even if they admire John McCain. And that is exactly THE message some voters need to hear.