what’s this code word federalist mean that McCain said he was?

Technically it refers to states having primary responsibilities with a smaller government. To most modern Republicans it means they want to do away with our government and just have 50 states.

I think the debate was decided in a way peculiar to this time in the campaign and this time in history. When Obama speaks soaringly and amazes people it’s inspiring. When he contrasts and compares to his opponents it’s good. In this debate he began speaking as President about actual details and this, I think, completed the deal. The reason is that this year the economy stinks and we have a lot of serious problems and once the discussion got down to details it becomes clear the Democrats are favored.

So, when Obama spoke about education or health care it wasn’t wonkish or trite because he’d laid the groundwork long ago. Tonight he was just fleshing out the ideas and showing Democrats have compassion for people and can govern.

McCain was still trying to show his hatred of Democrats and all policies aside from the military. He didn’t have a vision for America or an ideology which fit the policies he’s been throwing out like meat to dogs. He’s inconsistent, confusing, contradictory at times and obviously not ready for this.