The DNC couldn't find the right path with a detailed map, a compass and an aerial photograph. They've opened the door to anarchy masquerading as forced compromise in subsequent elections. And worse yet, they now are fat targets for a Republican attack on Democrats for their inability to govern.

Why did they cave in to the Clintons' shabby bullying? They are afraid of the threats of disunity, because they have no reliable method for creating unity. They're lost, left to the Biblical device of splitting the baby in thirds--two to RHC. You could see all that in the chairs' faces. The media kept emphasizing the bullying, repeatedly mentioning how loud and demanding were the Clinton supporters in the room.

My alternative would involve calling their bluff. You want McCain? Go for it. I refuse to play. You want to go to the convention and fight. Bring it on. Stand up to them. They're freaked and need someone to tell them to get a grip. Enough stick.

The carrot has got to be a large meeting with all of the most rabid Clinton supporters, including Ickes, Ferarro, and the cast of, well, loud people who were at the DNC meeting today or some such. Let 'er rip. Let 'em face him. Challenge them to attend. Bring up all their negativity. Prepare with all his paper proofs of all the salient issues re. which they're beating him up.