I am a lifelong member of organized construction labor and lean towards the Democratic party more often than not. That being said, I hold a major distrust of all politicians especially on the national level. And I always vote for I do consider it a privilege.

It seems quite feasible to assume the major political parties assess their chances of winning national elections far in advance. If in a cycle of party turmoil and adverse national opinion I believe they throw their weak, old or perceived troublemakers into the ring to run for our highest office, perhaps with the thought that a loss would make that “liability” go away. Maybe it is for no other reason than a favor to a political family or swan song to an aging member of Congress. All of this prompts the “Christians and the Lions” theory. The past 40+ years have given us the likes of Goldwater, Kennedy, McGovern, Dole, GW and Kerry. In retrospect did Goldwater, McGovern or Dole ever really have a chance or be expected to win? Of course there are exceptions with Kennedy and GW (2000) actually winning close elections and Kerry making a strong showing.

I think this year is “Christians and the Lions” 2008 version. I don’t feel the Republican leadership truly expects McCain to win and has proved to be a thorn in their side in the past. But he is more than holding his own in a tough “anti Bush” environment. Can he win? I don’t think so, but we will certainly find out that answer in less than 6 weeks.

there are 18% of all the votes that are still undecided for one reason or another.....whether it turns out to be old age related....race related or anything else that keeps them from committing openly.

The only time we'll know is when they cast their ballot. By the way that is also true for those who carry the flag for either party in public and will do what only they believe is right when in the voting booth.

Hence, polls, hype, estimates, guestimates, wags, swags, et al don't mean a thing......the polls themselves are devise in themselves. They keep the optomist happy....I guess.

BTK