The Phoenix

In A Crisis, Both Candidates Are Failing to Meet the Leadership Test

The financial crisis has completely pushed the presidential campaign to the sidelines. But a lot of that is due to the failure of both candidates to address the situation adequately. As Congress debates a bill that will radically change the way the economy is structured -- and the extent to which the next president will be able to achieve even a portion of his goals -- both candidates continue to attack each other over trivialities. It's a pathetic sight.

The proper thing for both John McCain and Barack Obama to do would be to suspend their campaigns and head to Washington to lead their parties and the nation in forging a solution. Instead, they head south for debate prep.

Some leadership.

Published Sep 23 2008, 08:52 AM by Steven Stark

LorenzoJennifer said:

First presidential debate is scheduled for Friday, 9/26. Interestingly, both Obama and McCain - - a while ago - - succeeded in changing the topic from domestic policy to foreign policy. Obama reportedly wanted to demonstrate his expertise in foreign affairs while McCain reportededly felt foreign affairs played to his advantage. A follower would stick with the script. A leader may break frame, apologize for having done so, acknowledge that the original topic was to have been domestic policy, and come forward with a key response to the financial malaise. Double dare you, Barack. Double dare you, Johnny Mac.

September 23, 2008 11:02 AM
gordon marshall said:

I hate to be the world's most pathetic apologist for Obama, but give him a break.

September 23, 2008 4:11 PM