Learn, Damn You... Learn!

For some reason the McCain campaign is continuing to use the same fear and smear tactics to try and discredit Barack Obama, despite the demonstrable evidence that they have not worked.

* Despite months of attacks on Obama's allegedly sinister background and cultural identity, a solid majority of likely voters, 57%, say that Obama has a background and set of values they can identify with, versus only 39% who say he doesn't. Those numbers are virtually identical to McCain's, which are 57%-38%.

* Asked which would concern them more about an Obama presidency, his lack of experience or the possibility that he would raise taxes, 14% cite taxes and 20% cite inexperience. Forty-eight percent -- more than those two combined -- say that "neither is a concern." This, despite weeks of attacks on Obama as a lightweight and empty suit who wants to hike taxes on ordinary plumbers and hockey moms everywhere.

* Despite all the attacks suggesting that Obama harbors a secret and shadowy agenda that he has yet to reveal, a huge majority of 67% say that they know what Obama and Biden would do if elected.

Contrary to my title, I hope that Republicans DON'T learn their lesson and keep running the same stupid campaigns that are ill-suited to an informed electorate and this historical moment. Because I actually feel we're living in a time of political engagement, which is poisonous to Republican strategy. Yet they keep rolling out the same basketball every election and hope that they can score with it. People are sick and tired of being scared and angry.

..."Does Obama think terrorists are the good guys?" Does Sarah Palin think anyone gives a crap what she has to say?

The proper reaction to this stuff at this point is not outrage but mockery.