First, hints Dobson might endorse McCain, burying a long-held hatchet, but at what price?

Then, disaffected GOP activists crop up. And CQ details how the Reagan coalition between fiscal and social conservatives and rabid interest groups is failing because McCain is not their first choice.

Suddenly, the Obama/McCain megachurch summit takes on new meaning -- as a catalyst for Dobson's conversion as much as McCain trying to wheeze toward the finish line.

But what's in it for Obama and Warren?

Whatever the strategery, Team McCain has deployed Operation Better Half...impending BBQ alert, anyone?