I think the tone was purposeful on both sides based on each campaign's strategy. What was so striking to me was how successful Obama was at taking one of the legs of the traditional Democratic triad (labor, the poor, minorities) so completely away from Hillary (minorities--specifically blacks) without really moving into the other two.
I'm also sort of surprised that the "experience" card didn't work better for her, given his total lack of any. I think it speaks to the depth of her baggage the the "liberal elite" turned on her so quickly in favor of this newcomer.
As for racism, I think it would be foolish to think that it didn't play a part. But, I think it was more important in the numbers of blacks flocking to Obama rather than the numbers of non-blacks refusing to support him.
I generally agree, but I do see a major disconnect between the white working class and Obama, hence is "God and guns" comment. I had hoped that someone representing a large diverse state wouldn't fall into that trap. He did.
Agreed. But, as a path to the nomination, it worked for him. While there is a disconnect, it will not affect his having their support to a large extent in November. McCain will not be able to resurrect the Reagan coalition.
