The benefit of low expectations

Liberal bloggers seem to think that low expectations for Kerry in the debates do him good. They should be ecstatic to see this, then:

Beating Bush in these debates -- the first on Thursday at the University of Miami -- will be no easy matter, judging from the extensive record Bush and Kerry have compiled in televised face-offs. The president is an unorthodox debater but an effective one, especially against candidates schooled in the traditional rules of debate, such as Kerry.

I am very nervous about the debates myself. I remember underestimating Bush in 2000 against Gore, and I will not make that mistake again.

I think next week's polls will see Kerry draw even with Bush. His tough language and fierce speeches should show up next week, and he may even move ahead in a few of them, but no doubt too late to be painted as a front runner in time for a debate. The timing could be perfect. I just hope Kerry can come through.