Daniel ascribes much more to my comments on Obama's exchange with Joe the Plumber than is actually there.  Even though I did associate Obama's method of engagement with an alleged liberal tendency, the post has little or nothing to do with specific policy or ideology, or even with the questions "Joe" asked.  It is simply an observation on communication style.  As such, the marriage analogy is perfectly appropriate.  It matters none whether the conversation is between a husband and wife about family finances, or a political candidate and voter about tax policy.  The fact remains that it is off putting and patronizing, in my view, to tell another person what to think. 

One of my primary objectives with this blog is to contribute to the return of intellectual honesty in our political discourse.  That means a commitment to call them as I see them, irrespective of whether or not the criticism/observation is about someone/something aligned with my own political viewpoint.  I have done and will continue to do that when it comes to McCain in particular and Republicans in general.  Daniel may very well be right.  It is, however, easy to miss the forest thru the trees when there is a strong emotional attachment to a candidate or party.  I've certainly fought that inclination in the past.