Can the maverick bring it?

Getty Images McCain has some big shoes to fill as the Republican National Convention concludes tonight with his much-anticipated speech. Mark Salter, the senator’s speech writer, says McCain’s remarks tonight will drive home his personal story and his record of challenging the Washington establishment. He will call on the entire political culture of Washington to ...

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592811_080904_maverick5.jpg

Getty Images

Getty Images

McCain has some big shoes to fill as the Republican National Convention concludes tonight with his much-anticipated speech. Mark Salter, the senator’s speech writer, says McCain’s remarks tonight will drive home his personal story and his record of challenging the Washington establishment.

He will call on the entire political culture of Washington to start putting their country first instead of their own self interest.”

Expectations are high, opportunity is knocking, and the prescriptions for success are pouring in. In order to sway those independents and tottering Hillary loyalists, various commentators say McCain must:

Chicago Sun-Times: First things first; explain the Palin choice. Far more crucial than detailing an exit strategy for Iraq or a plan to end the mortgage crisis, McCain must address Sarah Palin’s inexperience head on.

James Pethokoukis: Outline an economic agenda that illustrates how his administration can and will restore prosperity, lower gas prices, and reboot the economy.

Chris Cillizza: Separate from the Bush administration. The McCain campaign has clearly been widening that gap already. Now, it’s time to make the promise loud and clear that four years with McCain won’t be four more of Bush. Be funny. Even Republicans love to laugh.

Tom Brune: Take back the seat as the GOP’s alpha dog and put the maverick back in McCain.

Readers, what do you think McCain needs to do tonight?

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