I like Obama, but he had better get his head out of his arse or he is going to be in the "It was a good fight, pa, but I lost..." category. Remembering that the first law of politics is, "It isn't what is real that counts, it's whats perceived to be real that counts", one can already see the seeds of doubt that are being sown. Folks say things like "I think he's great, but I am not sure what he stands for...." and such. If he doesn't get out front in some dramatic ways to change that perception among the older voters, he will have a series of close seconds and end up losing the nomination. The nastiness, as this starts to occur, will increase, damaging the Democratic nominee in the general election. McCain, presuming he gets the nomination, will be an incredibly formidable foe.

Obama needs to be seen as the charismatic leader to get the young voters. But they never carry an election, as they are not consistent likely voters. Obama must start to grab more and more endorsements from politicians that are seen as strong in the areas he needs. He needs to be seen as screening strong candidates for cabinet posts that will encourage the likely voters that he is strengthening his weak areas. Then he can continue with his strong message of hope and change.

Just my opinion.

Mick