A response, or a warning?

Obama addressed the VFW this morning, and there's a lot of talk about what he said in response to McCain's slams on his patriotism. Here's what Obama said:

These are the judgments I've made and the policies that we have to debate, because we do have differences in this election. But one of the things that we have to change in this country is the idea that people can't disagree without challenging each other's character and patriotism. I have never suggested that Senator McCain picks his positions on national security based on politics or personal ambition. I have not suggested it because I believe that he genuinely wants to serve America's national interest. Now, it's time for him to acknowledge that I want to do the same.

Let me be clear: I will let no one question my love of this country. I love America, so do you, and so does John McCain. When I look out at this audience, I see people of different political views. You are Democrats and Republicans and Independents. But you all served together, and fought together, and bled together under the same proud flag. You did not serve a Red America or a Blue America - you served the United States of America.

So let's have a serious debate, and let's debate our disagreements on the merits of policy - not personal attacks. And no matter how heated it gets or what kind of campaign he chooses to run, I will honor Senator McCain's service, just like I honor the service of every veteran in this room, and every American who has worn the uniform of the United States.

As with every remark that Obama makes, there is the accompanying hand-wringing and bitching that Obama's response is too soft, that he needs to hammer McCain right now, that he has to take the gloves off, yada yada yada. Hand-wringing rules the day. Obama's response is too 'weak' for these people who want blood and want it right fucking now.

What no one has gotten, after a primary that went on longer than War and Peace, is that Obama does not roll like that.

Were today's remarks the sum and total of Obama's response to McCain's charges? I doubt it. We all need to remember that we're still in the run-up to the general campaign, and as much as we political junkies may want scorched earth, Obama is not going to give it to us. Yet.

This was not the end-all response to McCain's nasty campaigning. In the public appearances since Obama came back from vacation, he has noticeably toughened his rhetoric. But as much as everyone really, really wants him to put the wood to the Wrinkly Old White Haired Dude, this very minute, it ain't gonna happen.

But let's note that intil this morning, Obama has not remarked on McCain's charges - and what his response would be - as bluntly as he did this morning. This is a fundamental change, a marker, if you will.

This was not a response. This was a warning. And if McCain doesn't dial back his rhetoric, Obama will make his speech at Mile High, join his vice presidential nominee and pick McCain apart, slowly and painfully.

Haven't we watched this guy long enough to realize he knows what he's doing? The second-guessing has gotta stop.