McCain's increasingly addled brain

Some people, as they age, find that certain mental and physical attributes deteriorate. Forgetfulness is often a sign of aging. Physical strength tends to decline as we grow older. Then there are those who become confused, especially under stress.

John McSame seems to be exhibiting a few of these signs of aging. At the last debate, you'll recall, he could not sit still. He was antsy. He stood up, checked his notes, made notes, wandered around--all the while Senator Obama was speaking to the crowd. McCain's antics were distracting on television. I'm sure they were even more distracting to those watching in person. He grinned. He grimaced. It seemed he was deliberately trying to discombobulate Obama. It seemed he
couldn't help himself.

But more seriously, McSame may be suffering from some kind of mental confusion. If you watched the debate, you remember that he referred to Senator Obama as "that one." Could it be that he temporarily forgot Obama's name?

It gets worse. At a post-debate rally in Ohio, McSame addressed the party faithful as "my fellow prisoners."

"Across this country," he said, "this is the agenda I have set before my fellow prisoners. And the same standards of clarity and candor must now be applied to my opponent."

That's both sad and hilarious. Right after calling those gathered around in worshipful adoration "my fellow prisoners," McSame speaks of "clarity," and "candor," and then commands that Obama exhibit that same "clarity" and "candor."

Neither Sarah Palin nor Cindy Helmsley McCain "batted an eyelash," although Palin did seem a bit flummoxed.


McSame's comment is sad, because it appeared he had no clue what he said. Did he suffer some kind of post-traumatic flashback where he suddenly believed himself to be back in the Hanoi Hilton? It is hilarious because if there is anyone who has spoken without either "clarity" or "candor," it has been John McSame.

"Muddled" and "mud-slinging lies" would better fit the McSame campaign.

Clarity and candor, indeed.