McCain's Speech: Guidance

Watch the argument evolve from "change" to "reform."

McCain knows he can't win the election if he's seen as a Republican -- especially if he's seen as a right-wing Republican.

There will be many criticisms of the Republican Party. Probably more than criticisms of the Democratic Party.

McCain will focus on the battles he's had with his party and make the contrast: has Obama ever taken on his party when it was politically inexpedient?

He'll talk about consensus, compromise, respectful disagreement.

There will be references to judgment and the surge. And some self-deprecating humor.

There will be fewer attacks on Obama than the number of attacks Obama launched on McCain. (So they say.)