(Dow) Jonesing For A Debate

Another round of battleground state polls show more troubles for McCain. Voters there don't think he understands the economy and has been ineffective in dealing w/the crisis. Can the $52B plan he's unveiling this a.m. in PA, a stock market surge and a strong performance at Hofstra change that?

-- Unlike the first two face-offs, where McCain and Obama were allowed to rehash old talking points, they'll be forced tomorrow to defend specific economic proposals and priorities. But has McCain's behavior on the trail permanently damaged his ability to be taken seriously?

-- At this point we know this: McCain's attacks on Obama haven't won him any traction. But will talking about himself more and focusing on Obama less do the trick? Even as McCain's disapproval numbers rise, he still has favorable ratings in the 50s. It's not that voters don't like him. They just don't think he'd do a better job than Obama on the economy. Which also happens to be their biggest concern.

-- To close this gap, McCain has got to push his own plans. His 10/15 performance will be his best - and last - chance. Unless, of course, Wall Street provides him with an able, and durable, assist.