Tonight's VP Debate

Tonight's debate between Dick Cheney and John Edwards has taken on new significance in the face of the president's lackluster performance last week. The Democrats are today energized, and the Republicans defensive.

All John Edwards has to do is prove he's not the empty suit that we know him to be. He doesn't have to know what he's talking about, but only has to look like he does. Dick Cheney has to come across as a "nice guy".

Edwards is smart enough to be able to quickly digest and memorize briefing books by the dozen. That he has no depth may not be apparent to those who have not followed the campaign. Cheney's job tonight is to expose this weakess.

If all Cheney does is tout his "experience" he will loose. The fact is that most voters will not be presuaded by this argument. Hopefully he will be smart enough not to overplay his had in this area.

I'll post my analysis either late tonight or tomorrow morning.

If you'd like a blow by blow during the debate, log in to National Review's blog The Corner. I found it excellent during the presidential debate, as I could follow the comments of the regular National Review staff along with some guests.