Here's my (weird) take on where things stand. Hear me out!

The central dynamic in this race is the charisma and magnetism of Obama and that of Palin. McCain may also get his groove back since he's hanging with a young woman. In fact, I bet this will happen.

That charisma is a precious resource. Obama cannot squander it by pooh-poohing Palin's negative attacks.

Here's the really weird part. Sitting down? Good.

<i>Obama's best response to Palin's barbs is subtle flirtation.</i>

Imagine this everyday scene: a pretty, sharp-tongued, smart girl gives you some harassment, delivered with some wit. Can you take it? It's a reflection of your character. Are you a joyless busybody, who doesn't want to "play the game," to try to impress her with your toughness and comebacks?

Obama will douse the flame of his celebrity power by being too grownup to "have some fun."

Instead, the subtext of Obama's response should be: <i>Yeah, you've got charisma, but if you really care about helping our country, why are you running with this loser?</i>

Obama should regard this race as a competition to win the heart of Sarah Palin. She's given it to McCain, but why? McCain wants to repeat all of Bush's mistakes!

Obama is in real danger of losing the media unless he can involve himself in the story of Sarah Palin. He should take the bait and defuse Sarah's attacks by enmeshing them in a broader picture of flirtation.

It sounds nuts, but remember this is the first time an attractive, sharp-tongued woman has been in a national political race. The dynamics are different.

This is not a sexist strategy. Both Obama and Palin get a lot of mileage on their charisma. Obama needs to keep that charisma a front-and-center part of his campaign.

Note: I may not agree with what I just wrote. (Consider it food for thought.)