Oral Exam, Part II

NEWSWEEK contributor Michael Gerson helped craft some of President George W. Bush's most memorable speeches. Michael Waldman, executive director of the Brennan Center for Justice, did the same for President Bill Clinton. Throughout this week, the two former presidential penmen will preview the big speeches at the Republican Convention in St. Paul, Minn., and analyze what worked-and what didn't-after the fact. Here, they review John McCain's acceptance speech:

MICHAEL GERSON
John McCain's acceptance speech had significant strengths, particularly as it moved toward its end. McCain emphasized his brokenness in captivity—not his endurance and success—as a source of wisdom. And this vulnerability, from a proud and difficult man, gave his personal story renewed power, causing tears in the hall. McCain is not a great speaker, but he can be a good storyteller—and tonight he told his American story in a creative, emotional, authentic way.

McCain's expression of "respect" and "admiration" for Senator Obama was generous and refreshing. His criticism of Republican failures and excesses during the last eight years was necessary and convincing—who believes that McCain was happy with Republican leadership in that period? And his overarching theme of reform—fighting for average Americans against entrenched interests in the spirit of Teddy Roosevelt—is exactly the message he needs to drive home.

But the problem was the policy. McCain recalled past epic battles against big tobacco, drug companies, union bosses and assorted enemies of the public interest. But looking forward, his proposals were typical and uninspired. Vetoing pork-barrel spending? School choice? Nuclear power and offshore drilling? It is possible to make a case for each of these ideas. But it cannot be said they add new pages to the Republican playbook. Doesn't anyone sitting in McCain strategy sessions raise their hand and insist, "This policy is weak"? Doesn't anyone ask, "Will independents and moderates find these ideas striking and appealing?" Where is the policy ambition and creativity?

It is the burden of the reformer to propose actual reforms. It is John McCain's particular burden to prove he is not a typical Republican in practical and specific ways. In both cases, McCain's response tonight was incomplete.

This does not mean the speech was a flop or a failure. McCain set out his overarching theme of fighting reform and told his amazing personal story—and many Americans will find both compelling. But the policy in tonight's speech was frankly disappointing. As this campaign proceeds, he will need to do better.