Ducking debates - what a coward!

JOHN'S UPDATE: Kerry ought to announce immediately that we're having the second debate in that town on that night whether Bush is there or not. He should rent out a hall, get 2 podiums (screw Nader), and be there at the appropriate hour. And if Bush isn't there, Kerry can debate an empty podium and invite all the media.

"Experts" now expect bush to duck the second debate -- the one where actual, undecided voters and real people get to ask the president questions.

My understanding is the WH is concerned that one of the "undecideds" really won't be undecided and will ask a very difficult question. But would it suprise anyone if we learned that the bush campaign already asks people to call themselves "undecideds" and call in to tv and radio talk shows? Please. Getting your people to pose as neutral, and then talking up the prez is GOP standard operating procedure. They know it works, so they don't want it to happen to them.

But what about the real undecided Americans who actually have questions? Shouldn't they have the right to ask their "leader" in person, just this one time? Shouldn't the man who's asking for their vote actually, directly ask for it -- and answer a question or two?

Bottom line, bush is a coward. The last tough question he faced was in April. If he gets his way, he won't answer another ever.

One other thought -- please please please don't underestimate this guy. He's a good debater. Lowering expectations is also standard operating procedure. The GOP's goal is to spin "mediocre" into "blowing away all expectations."