The proof is in the pudding, as they say.
This CNN clip reporting on the meeting clearly shows who is a leader when the cameras have left the room and all the chips are on the table:
http://www.cnn.com/...
(Sorry, I'm not sure how to embed it)
To emphasize how compelling this contrast is, I have transcribed the most important parts of this video. Please see below...
Here's what CNN says about Obama's role in the meeting:
[After description of Rep. Boehner's proposal] "Barack Obama pressed Boehner for details, and Democrats say he did not get enough. Then Obama asked Secretary Paulson for his thoughts on the Republican plan. Paulson suggested it was unworkable."
Bingo. Here is a guy who (A) isn't satisfied with talking points and vague plans - he wants details, so he can evaluate alternative policy proposals and (B) looks for advice from the experts on the issue (not to mention drawing out two opposing sides of a debate who both hail from the Republican party... very smart). This whole episode reinforces Obama's commitment to the negotiating table and the value of meeting face to face and hammering out a deal. Works just as well in domestic policy as foreign policy.
By contrast, here's CNN's description of McCain's role:
[After description of the uncomfortable position that President Bush is in] "...and John McCain is showing no signs of bailing the president out. Republican and Democratic sources say McCain stayed fairly quite during the White House meeting, leaving lawmakers of both parties guessing about where he really stands."
I mean, can it be any clearer than that?
Seriously?
McCain is the one who said his assistance was so important that he would have to cancel a nationally televised presidential debate... and he can't even speak up to help broker a deal?
Really?
.
.
.
Update: As per barath's suggestion in the comments, here is the digg link for the CNN video: http://digg.com/...
Digg it!