Now that the economy is really starting to worry people, with the Dow falling to its lowest level in five years, the Washington Post carries an uplifting account of Barack Obama's speech in Indianapolis yesterday. In front of a crowd of 20,000 he said: "I realize you're cynical and fed up with politics. I understand that you're disappointed and even angry with your leaders. You have every right to be.

"But despite all of this, I ask of you what's been asked of the American people in times of trial and turmoil throughout our history. I ask you to believe. Believe in yourselves, believe in each other, believe in the future we can build together."

I can't help feeling reassured by this kind of rhetoric. And increasingly, I see the stage being set for an absolute slaughter of the Republicans on election day.