How NOT To Win Friends and Influence People

From Haaretz:

Eagleburger was trying to have fun. He was mocking his fellow panelist Kurtzer, sitting to the left of the others (“where he belongs”), and making noises and funny, impatient faces, while Ann Lewis was speaking. But more importantly, he did not mince his words. In a response to a question about the religious right, an important component of the Republican coalition, he said that it was, indeed “a serious problem,” and reminded his listeners that he now lives in Charlottesville, surrounded by such people that he needs to fight.

One would think that this is not exactly what McCain needs, while he is trying to win over this reluctant constituency. But Eagleburger calmed these young Jews by promising that McCain will not change his ways to please anyone. And he did not forget to take a swipe on Rush Limbaugh – not for the first time – even while forgetting, or pretending to forget, his name. (Hat Tip: Hot Air.)

I guess the religious right (i.e. some of the biggest supporters of Israel you’ll find) is a huge problem for Camp McCain, though I’ll wager his biggest problem will be too few Religious Conservative showing up on November 4th after enthusiastic endorsements from religious conservative leaders to the effect of, “John McCain proudly represents the lesser of two evils.” Statements like Eagleburger’s won’t help.