"Staying on Message" and test taking.

[The Backlash Cometh]

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could take tests and for the questions we don't know, just fill in the blank with the answers to questions that we do know? And our excuse, "We Stayed on Message." That's what they say is Bush's strength in debates. He doesn't get distracted by the question. He stays on message.

Imagine if we could apply this rule to every aspect of life: If you don't know how to come up with statistical differentials in a high tech job, just fill in the answers using lesser formulas and just say, "I stayed on message." It's a sincere reflection of my capabilities (and limitations).

"Staying on Message." Whatever happened to just plain testing someone's knowledge based on their ability to provide answers that are directly relevant to the question?

Don't let the pundits define tonight's debate. Bush isn't "staying on message." He's sidestepping like a tap dancing Texas sidewinder. Look tonight to see if Bush sidesteps the question. If he doesn't answer it, give him a big zero. If a pundit gives him points for style and not substance, call the pundit on it.

Style versus Substance. That's what tonight is all about.