Kerry Spot    [ jim geraghty reporting ]
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Kerry Spot reader Eli observes that Rudy's speech last night did get network coverage - in the New York City area.

Almost all the local New York City channels went live to Giuliani, who was probably aware of this in mentioning Israel (1972 Olypics), Leon Klinghoffer (giuliani mentioned that he was killed b/c he was Jewish), and the folly of Arafat receiving a Nobel Peace Prize. I think he played this shrewdly — — the GOP still gets 3 nights of prime time coverage, but New York stations give him the opportunity to aim for the Jewish vote (of which I am part). No, Bush won't take New York, but if Bush gets more momentum among Jewish voters, this will be seen as a death-knell for Kerry. (Like if polls showed Kerry closing to within 5 points in Texas, it would look bad for Bush.)

Beyond any appeal Kerry's speech would have to Jewish voters, one also has to wonder how many northern New Jersey voters watched the speech. New Jersey has to be kept in the "likely-Kerry" category for now, but if Kerry's lead erodes there, it will be the sign that the floodgate is breaking.

Of course, what was the New York Times headline this morning?

Giuliani Lauds Bush's Leadership on Terror; G.O.P. Opposes Abortion and Gay Unions."

Yeah. Because that's the real news of the night. *sigh* Day by day, the New York Times is becoming impossible to parody.

[Posted 08/31 12:51 PM]