Opinion: McCain Can't Afford to Stand Pat

Obama, on the other hand, has decided not to stay pat on his proposals. On Monday, he announced several new economic policies aimed at aiding the middle class. At a campaign stop in Toledo, Ohio, he criticized McCain, saying:

"Last week, Senator McCain's campaign announced that they were going to 'turn the page' on the discussion about our economy so they can spend the final weeks of this election attacking me instead. His campaign actually said, and I quote, 'if we keep talking about the economy, we're going to lose.' Well, Senator McCain may be worried about losing an election, but I'm worried about Americans who are losing their jobs, and their homes, and their life savings."

Obama announced four specific proposals at the rally. He plans a tax cut for employers demonstrating a net increase of new jobs. He also endorsed McCain's idea to stop forced 401(k) withdrawals for seniors and went farther by suggesting a one-time tax-free redemption from 401(k)s (15%, or up to a maximum of $10,000). He recommended a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for homeowners acting in good faith to make payments. Finally, he would create a lending facility for states and localities that have been adversely affected by tight credit markets.

The campaign is winding down. And McCain may be facing his final chance to score big on Wednesday night in the final debate.