Couple final points I wanted to make sure to mention.

Rudy v. McCain style difference - Sen. McCain has emphatically clung to the idea that a campaign should be about policy differences between the candidates. His criticisms of Sen. Clinton focus on her “disastrous” Iraq policy, her health care plan, and other policy differences. Mayor Giuliani has a much more abrasive and combative view of politics, much closer to the Clinton model. Mr. and Mrs. Clinton both see almost no difference between politics and personal life. Hillary’s “vast right wing conspiracy” comment is one of many examples of this All Of Life Is Politics principle. Rudy and Hillary would likely have another campaign full of negative ads, partisanship, and a willingness to “fight.” This obviously appeals to partisans on both sides. McCain goes out of his way to appeal to the independents who despise that part of politics. His enduring appeal to independents (which is greater than the more “moderate” Rudy) is based on his style which focuses on respect for those who he disagrees with and a desire to get things done rather than to create a permanent partisan majority. In a general election, McCain’s inclusiveness and anti-partisanship will be in stark contrast to Hillary’s very partisan persona and thought process. Most political junkies vote on policy, but this difference in style will matter in a general election.

Overall Experience - This was a phenomenal opportunity to see real, live retail politics in the most important election in the world: for The President of the United States of America. I have realized how difficult it is to capture what the campaign trail is like for those of you who (like me) have never been on it. If you want to get another perspective on what life on the campaign trail is like, drop by the McCain Blogettes run by the Senator’s daughter (Meghan) and her friends. They are very nice young women and their photos and experiences on the road are good depictions of the high paced campaign life.

Thanks - This ride-along would not have happened if it wasn’t for the logistical help of Pat Hynes and Brooke Buchanan on the McCain campaign. I also received the very valuable advice of other citizen journalists including from our very own Ben and Soren on what to expect and what to bring with me. Furthermore, the McCain Blogettes were generous with their time and thoughts and I enjoyed talking to them about their experiences. Finally, the campaign treated me as any other journalist and that respect can mean a lot to newbie.

Below the Fold are links to all of the other stories in this series.