I'm starting to think the McCain campaign thought a bail-out deal would be hashed-out on Thursday or Friday morning, and then McCain could claim the credit for rescuing us in our time of global financial crisis by getting "Washington to work," and then arrive at the Mississippi debate on Friday as a conquering hero.

Thursday afternoon. It looked like a deal had been made (McCain's spokesperson says it's all thanks to John McCain, and talks about the debate happening tomorrow):


Early Thursday evening. Oops! No deal:


Later Thursday evening. Not only no deal, but, according to meeting attendees, McCain said little of substance at the big White House pow-wow:


So now McCain has painted himself into a corner. His campaign supposedly is "suspended" until the financial crisis is resolved. Prospects as to an agreement being hashed out tomorrow seem slim. Does McCain go back on his promise to remain "suspended" until there's a deal, so that he can attend the Mississippi debate? Or does he stick it out in Washington, even though it's becoming more and more obvious that he at best is ineffectual in the bailout negotiations, and at worst is an impediment to accomplishing a deal?

Thursday's SUSA poll says 75% of respondents want a debate between the candidates on Friday night. McCain's not showing up will hurt him. At the same time, leaving Washington for Mississippi would break a promise McCain made less than two days ago.

Instead of presenting a steadying presence during crisis, the McCain approach to crisis is to flail about and create confusion as to motives, actions, and positions. Meanwhile, Obama remains steady, collected ... and in the lead.