Tightening polls (again) indicate that despite widespread despondency on the right, this electoral battle isn't over. The major tracking polls show Obama leading McCain by a margin of 4-6 points---- less than the 8 point lead which Jimmy Carter held over Rondald Reagan a mere nine days before the election of 1980-- and Reagan ended up winning in an historic landslide.

The key to victory is clear:

If the election ends up as a referendum on George W. Bush, Obama wins (in a landslide).

If the election ends up as a referendum on John McCain, Obama wins decisively.

If, on the other hand, the election is all about Obama -- if it ends up as a referendum on his policies, personality and preparation- then McCain will win.

Between now and election day, McCain and all his supporters must focus all effort and attention on making sure that when the people go to the polls, they understand they're voting on Obama -- yes or no-- for a radical and desructive direction for the country.

If the people understand the nature of that choice, they'll do the right thing.