Seriously.  While we carp back and forth about which candidate is more elite or a bigger panderer or more vicious, etc., John McCain is OWNING the electoral map.  

Yes, I realize this is very early and that many things may change between now and November.  But I for one am terrified by the numbers on the maps at the top of the MyDD page.  Terrified.

Please tell me how - with the economy in the toilet and an overwhelming majority of Americans convinced that we are, as a nation, headed down the wrong track - it is that we can't field a candidate who can lead John McGrump at this point.

I'm wondering whether the bulk of MyDD readers prefer the rhetoric of Obama's "One America" to Edwards' "Two Americas," and why.  Which is more likely to resonate with the voters who do not identify with either party?  And is it the message or the messenger?  

My personal preference is the "Two Americas" theme.  The idea that we are more and more divided into a nation where one (shrinking in size and growing in influence) class is comfortable and secure in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and the other class is more worried every day about how to pay the rent/mortgage and which family member will have to go without health insurance.  I believe this is a message that crosses party lines and creates an opportunity for dialogue.  It catches attention and states the problem - which then gives us the chance to present solutions.  

The level of useful dialogue here seems to make this a good fit (I hope) for the following, which is cross-posted from dKos.  

As I see it (and goodness knows I could be wrong) the most important thing we can be doing for the progressive cause is replacing R's with D's in every elected office in the land, from dog-catcher to President.  I'm also convinced that the future of the Democratic Party and/or the progressive movement lies in city and county commissions, state legislatures,  and the US Congress more than in the Presidency.  The executive branches will take care of themselves if we put enough progressive minds and hearts in the farm team.