Substantive Proposals Missing from McCain and Obama

As I turn off the boring negative ads that are airing on the newschannels, I ask myself, what are the issues? The ones that are actually driving the mid-summer campaign? It seems like a short list this year.

1. The Economy. General concern that it's going in the wrong direction.
2. Energy. It's terribly expensive, and it might be hurting the economy, which is #1.
3. National Security. Who can practically lead and show strength in a dangerous world. This is terrorism, war and diplomacy.
4. Health Care. It's terribly expensive, and it might be hurting the economy, which is #1.
5. Environment and Climate Change. Maybe this is number 4, perhaps lower.
6. Social issues. Abortion, Marriage, Immigration. Just not that important this round.
(These aren't my list, just what I sense candidates and media are talking about).


And then, much to my disappointmen, I ponder the the proposals addressing these issues. Neither candidate is showing too much in the areas of courage or boldness here...



McCain
Economy: It's bad, but fixable and tax cuts will stimulate the economy.
Energy: We need to drill more and invest in magic technology.
National Security:I'll keep you safe, in this dangerous world.
Health Care: It's too expensive, and we'll reform it.
Environment: Cap and trade and we need to invest in magic technology.


Obama
Economy: Stimulus package, raise taxes on top 2%, smattering of tax breaks/ rebates.
Energy: Invest in magic technology.
National Security: Conventional military strength and diplomacy.
Health Care: It's too expensive, and we'll mandate it.
Environment: Cap and trade and we need to invest in magic technology.