AFTERMATH OF DEBATE UNCERTAIN

Your missionary to Capitol Hill, Washington, DC, Rob Schenck, reporting:

The air in Washington was thick with tension last night as the presidential debate approached. So much hangs in the balance for the people we minister to and interact it with here. Thousands will lose their jobs as one presidential administration ends and another begins. Tens of thousands of others are on pins and needles waiting to see the outcome for the Congress and those who deal with the legislative branch. Of course, the Republicans may slide even deeper into the minority while the Democrats find their groove and increase their power. All this charges the atmosphere with a lot of electricity—both positive and negative currents!

It appears on first blush that John McCain’s more forceful confrontation of Barack Obama didn’t change too many minds. You probably know by now that my early encounters with Senator McCain were not rosy. (Let me be quick to say that it’s been the same with Senator Obama.) Still, on at least a superficial level, it’s gotten much better with both men. My last one-on-one with Senator McCain was downright pleasant, and we’ll see about impressions after I have lunch next week with one of Senator Obama’s top advisors on faith and religion.

Poll numbers continue to favor Obama over McCain, and they appear to be tracking that direction in big ways. Of course, one lesson we all learned during the last presidential election is just how wrong polls can be. Still, McCain’s more energetic, forthright and aggressive competition with Obama may have come too late. I plan to talk about all of this and its implications in a closed-door, off-the-record dinner fellowship gathering this Monday night in beautiful Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Please try to join us. These last few days before we cast our votes are critical. Do what you can to get there and try to bring someone else who cares about his country and its future! Everything you need is at our website: www.faithandaction.org.

Back later with more on the debate and its aftermath . . .

Rob +

Rev. Rob Schenck

Faith and Action

www.faithandaction.org

109 2nd St, NE

Washington, DC 20002

202-546-8329