The Democratic debate makes it clear that foreign policy is going to be a huge factor in the general election, whatever folks say about the issue’s reduced visibility. The differences between the parties on foreign policy are so stark and so important that they’re going to focus nearly every debate between the nominees. The country is going to be buzzing over Iraq and foreign policy after every clash. Romney is clearly the more conservative candidate, but I differ with Lisa on the potential role of McCain in debates on the war and foreign policy. I think McCain will do a bang-up job against either Democrat in what is sure to become an epic public debate on foreign policy.

In a fundamental sense, this election is going to shape the foreign policy of the United States. After watching the Democrats, I think the fate of the war on terror itself is on the line. I know the Dems deny this, but I think it’s true. (Matt Continetti’s “Foreign Policy Prisms” post helps show why.) Romney has an important advantage on the economy, which could also be huge in the general election. But on the war, I think McCain would be a powerful and winning presence in the epic debate showdowns with the Dems sure to come.