...in the negotiation of the terms of bailout legislation, let's remember why they were there. If not for an invitation from he President, neither of them would have been anywhere near the cabinet room in the White House. Even though they were there, I submit that neither of them should have played anything except a minor, tangential role in the discussions.

The meeting had all the key congressional leaders and the committee chairmen responsible for banking and finance, as well as the President, Vice President and key members of the cabinet. I think the role of both special invitees Obama and McCain was to listen and generally keep their mouths shut.

There were people in the room who were responsible for and should have provided leadership to the process. The President, Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader are the three that ARE responsible for leadership and should take either the plaudits or criticism as the result of the outcome.

However, if either of them actually tried to play a more important role, over-riding those in attendance with the responsibility for getting the deal done, then McCain or Obama should be subject to whatever criticisms--or kudos--that might result.