Frankly...

I agree with just about every word Jack Caffertywrote about McCain's performance in the recent forum at the Saddleback Church. Over and over, Rick Warren's questions opened up an opportunity for thoughtful reflection on the ways Christian faith should be translated into political action. And over and over, McCain offered brief, empty answers that nevertheless appealed to the conservative audience. He showed that he can recite the Republican platform, but I heard nothing to suggest that he can authentically respond to the challenges of human life from a perspective of faith.

He's like Bush. He's a decider, but he doesn't have the ability to understand the problem.

Obama's answers weren't nearly as smooth, but they were miles more meaningful.

Unfortunately, I think Joan Walsh was also correct that the forum didn't play well for Obama and probably never could have.

Thoughtfulness isn't in at the moment.