Poker politics

Play your position is a poker player's mantra. Knowing when to fold 'em or hold 'em with regards to table position is the basic strategy of the game.

Looks to be the same in politics, too.

The GOP and McCain camp had a positional advantage: its convention was held later than the Democrat's, and Obama had to pick his V.P. sooner. This meant that the Republicans had a little bit of time to figure out a strategy to react to their opponents. They'd know who the speakers were, what was said, and even how the Democratic convention was decorated (Republicans continue to make fun of Obama in accepting the nomination surrounded by mock temple columns).

The McCain camp raised the stakes with Gov. Sarah Palin as running mate after Obama's pick of Sen. Biden. Palin runs the largest state in the Union while Biden sits in a chamber drafting laws and casting votes. Palin fights government corruption (even in her own party) while Biden is a career politician from the northeastern state of Delaware. Palin hunts moose while Biden, well, people don't really care to know his hobbies.

The Palin play is an all-in move for McCain, except he had the advantage of position. If she works out to be a great complement to the senator from Arizona, then he doubles up. Otherwise, he loses all his chips and the campaign will falter.

But right now, it seems the Obama camp will call the all-in. All cards are shown on the table, and we'll find out who wins soon enough...