John McCain Throws Deep

The most famous Hail Mary in American football history.

After today’s deluge of bad battleground polls, it’s desperation time again for McCain. He’s developed a reputation for doing the unexpected, including nominating Sarah Palin and suspending his campaign. Marcus and I have put together a quick Top Five options for McCain’s next crazy move, with advantages and disadvantages.

Resign from the Senate
Advantage: Bolsters his anti-Washington credentials
Disadvantage: Costs the Republican Party a Senate seat, as Democratic AZ Gov. Janet Napolitano would get to nominate the next. Also, McCain would be unemployed come January 2009.

Surprise visit to Iraq
Advantage: This oldy-but-goody surprise focuses attention on national security, where McCain is stronger than on the economy, and could produce some more ‘the surge worked’ stories, bolstering his claim to good judgment.
Disadvantage: Time spent out of the country is time not spent doing rallies, media events, or fundraisers

Publicly Recommend Bombing Iran
Advantage: Promotes his tough image, takes attention away from economy and focuses it on Iran and Israel, friendlier territory for the McCain campaign.
Disadvantage: Brings back the war-mongering thing.

Dump Palin
Advantage: Cuts losses on a huge liability. Tom Ridge.
Disadvantage: Huge embarrassment. More references to Eagleton. Incenses the Right.

Make and spend a huge personal campaign contribution
Advantage: More badly needed money in play in states where he is being outspent. Shows commitment to winning.
Disadvantage: Now might not be the best time for news stories featuring any aspect of McCain’s fabulous wealth. Also, less money for his retirement.

The typical Hail Mary throughout American football history.