For McCain, Colin Powell Endorsement Ended The Race

An interesting analysis of the presidential race is provided by McCain pollster Bill McInturff as he talks about the internal poll numbers.

McCain's campaign had a brief window where victory seemed possible--remember the heady days after the GOP convention? The McCain campaign was successfully exploiting the doubt that Americans were feeling about Obama's readiness. Had the campaign continually been able to drive that message home--McCain would have ridden the theme to victory.

But then the financial crisis hit--and McCain could only react to events. Even then, McInturff says McCain remained in striking distance--until the Colin Powell endorsement.

We had three days where after the Powell endorsement the bottom just fell out,” he said.

McInturff also says Sarah Palin is well-suited to win the Iowa GOP caucus because of the enthusiasm she generates among the base. I agree--having witnessed that enthusiasm in a late campaign rally in Des Moines.