The economy is blowing up, McCain is in Iraq looking presidential (ok that might not be a good thing for Jon but) - Obama is about to give a self centered speech about himself and race.
He should call it off (saying he will address later) and use the press focus to pivot the discussion to the economy. He issued a press release about it today but that doesn't go far enough.
At this moment, we must come together and act to address the housing crisis that set this downturn in motion and continues to eat away at the public’s confidence in the market. We should pass the legislation I put forward with my colleague, Chris Dodd, to create meaningful incentives for lenders to buy or refinance existing mortgages so that Americans facing foreclosure can keep their homes. This is not a bailout for lenders or investors who gambled recklessly, and it is not a windfall for borrowers. It is a fair and responsible way to help stem the foreclosure crisis. link to entire statement
He should get on plane and fly to Washington make a speech on the floor of the Senate pushing his and Senator Dodd's bill. (get some Rep on board if he can.)
more below the fold...
He should take a day or 2 off the trail and push for Main Street in the Senate. He is having a problem connecting with down scale voters this would go far to win them over.
Then in a few more days when there is a lull in the banking crisis and McCain is off in London or doing his Bio tour come back and give his "race" speech.
But right now is a bad time - first people are distracted by the banking crisis and second it make him look out of touch for those who are paying attention.