Paul:
“I was hoping for a strong thematic attack on Obama illuminating his preference for actions that weaken America and embolden our enemies. McCain didn’t do that. There was no philosophical discussion of difference in approaches from leftists and conservatives. ”
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Well stated. I agree.

In general, McCain has been talking about himself way too much and about the big issues way too little. Last night we heard that he has known this or that person for this or that many years and that he has voted for or against this or that legislative proposal. We heard that he wears a wrist bracelet from a soldier who died in Iraq. Those kinds of statements have their place, but enough is enough.

In the meantime, he failed to point out major differences between the Republicans and Democrats on the Defense budget, on willingness to use military force, on intelligence gathering, and on generally being tough instead of soft.

He failed to say that he supported the Iraq War from the beginning and that he would support it again and that the world is and will be a better place because we have been fighting and winning the Iraq War. From what he said, it seemed he supported only the Surge and conceded that Obama was right to oppose the Iraq War from the beginning.

Most basically, McCain failed to communicate that the USA still faces major threats from abroad and that the USA still must act militarily abroad to protect our freedom and international peace. So, we still need a strong, powerful military and we still must lead the World militarily.