my advice to Obama

This contest is being turned into an ill-tempered vaudeville routine. How can Obama manage to pull a rabbit out of his hat?

First: Stop running for the general election. Talk of Reagan etc. plays to the American public. Direct your comments to Democratic Party members. You have offended some of these people by not respecting the work they have done over the last few decades (that is the greater part of their lives). Save the history lessons and the pitch to the uncommitted for after you win the nomination.

Two: You've got some great endorsers. Get them to get out to mix it up in the crowds - give a speech where they make their points. Having people issue statements doesn't resonate as news. Get these people to make news. By the way, put some of the women who have endorsed you front and center. Get their story out there. Like who is Janet Napolitano? Don't just let her be a talking head. Make it a bit more up close and personal.

Three: There have been stories of shenanigans in both the NH and NV contests. Make sure you have a strong person from your team at every - and that is EVERY precinct/voting booth - especially in your hard fought states. Particularly the urban ones. The weird stuff seems to happen in the larger towns and urban places. Don't let them get away with stuff. Be ready on the ground.

Four: put your money on the Feb 5 states you can win. I don't know which these are but don't spread yourself too thin. Then let the press know where you are really in contention. Make the news about these states. Then win them!

Five: WJC has been mugging for the camera before each primary. Know that he or a surrogate will do some really crummy thing and come up with your own surprise to counterract it. You have to buy the news cycle.

Six: If possible follow the other campaigns' people and try to know the story before it's a story. They get their stories on the news so they are telling the media where to be - be there too. Get videotaping and see if you can blow this thing open.

Well writing this has made me feel better. I know I am partisan. I do see Obama as a leader who can create a new moment for America. I want to see him get the chance.

He has lost the last 2 primaries by heart-achingly small amounts. He and his campaign have to take it over the top a few times so that he doesn't lose delegates, etc. and can continue to contest the nomination. It's all about strength, focus and getting that news cycle on your side.

Good luck Barack!