Reverend Rick Warren of the Saddleback megachurch in Orange County (CA) must be happy this morning: he has been the first host of a presidential debate. Both candidates agreed to be interviewed by him last night, discussing their faith, and the issues. What is remarkable is the very fact that a democratic candidate appeared in such a forum: in 2000 and 2004, evangelicals were the most solidly republican voting bloc. This year, things may change: while McCain still led among evangelicals before the debate, Obama already had the advantage among non-evangelical Christians, 43 per cent to 31 per cent.
The opportunity was important for Obama, who has not yet completeley overcome the perception that he is a "muslim" (12% of voters believe that) or, partially, a "foreigner," two innuendos that republicans spread with the help of some lunatic fringe's characters like Jerome Corsi.
