Hey Carm,

I was just kidding with the darkies joke. After all, we know that it's only George Bush who doesn't care about black people. :)

On the real, like you I don't think that McCain has some sort of deep-seated racial animosity; even in the face of his miserable voting record on civil rights. I just don't think that he -- along with many other Republicans -- see the point of trying to directly woo black people given the tendency for blacks to vote overwhelmingly Democrat. Bush's increased black vote in 2004 came almost serendipitously; as he made gay issues a major platform which garnered unexpected support from Black Christians.

So when McCain is left speechless about racial issues, it's just because he didn't bother to do homework about people who -- at best -- will only give him 5% of their support.

And yes it is an absolute victory for the McCain camp. As long as they can keep this campaign about identity instead of the economy or failed foreign policy Obama loses.

Andre, do you think John McCain has a low opinion of black people? I tend to think he just doesn't think about anyone but his core constituencies pretty much. But I am open to debate.

At least he avoided the temptation of answering "What are you talking about? I love them darkies..."

I think the McCain camp considers this a victory.