Falwell invitation to McCain backfires on both men

DallasBlog.com | Tom Pauken:

“On the surface this speech at Liberty University seemed like a splendid way for McCain to gain support from the religious right, an important part of what remains of the Republican coalition. Instead, what this ‘rapprochement’ between Falwell and McCain has done is upset the followers of both men. ”

Ed Cognoski responds:

Maybe. Maybe not.

Senator McCain believes that he can win the general election if only he can win the Republican nomination for President in 2008. And that requires winning the support of religious conservatives. Hence, the making nice with Jerry Falwell.

Meanwhile, on the Democratic side, Senator Clinton believes that she has a good grasp on the Democratic nomination. For her, the bigger challenge will be to win the November general election. For that, she, too, will have to defuse the antagonism conservatives feel towards her. Hence, her making nice with Rupert Murdoch.

Senator McCain and Senator Clinton are both right.