I’m working on some thoughts about Josh Marshall’s long series of posts on what’s wrong with John McCain, but consider that in the works. For now, let me note this from The Note:
McCain is writing the latest script with Steve Schmidt, who brings discipline, decisiveness, and determination to his new role — and most importantly, the perception of all three qualities for the journalists and GOP insiders who were almost ready to give up on McCain.
It doesn’t really surprise me to learn that The Note considerations “perception” of positive qualities among “journalists and GOP insiders” to be the most important thing a new campaign manager could have. But clearly that’s a silly thing to believe. But I get the sense that McCain himself believes it — that if he jiggers things just right GOP Machers + McCain Fanboys in the Press = National Electoral Majority.