Now that the political conventions are history, the presidential election moves to a new phase, one in which many new voters will enter into the discussion. From here on out the candidates will not be judged by their views on issues, but on very basic aspects of their personalities.
John F Kennedy edged Richard Nixon, not on his views, but JFK's hair beat Nixon's 4 0'clock shadow. Eisenhower's plain-spokeness beat Adlai Stevenson's pedantic lectures. Ronald Reagan's folksy ease beat Michael Dukakis' wonkiness and Bill Clintons goofy laugh beat Bob Dole's sneers.
Also the Republicans have the one argument that will alway win for them. They just have to say: 'The Democrats are coming to take your money and they are going to spend it on their friends.' I am betting that's what the election this year will come down to this. Watch out for the Wal-Mart moms.