WELL, YAWN, MAYBE IT'S TIME TO DO SOMETHING – AT 10:32 A.M. ET:  The White House is rolling out some new economic proposals, having finally recognized that the old Democratic theme song, "Happy Days Are Here Again," isn't quite rising in the charts.  From WaPo:

Under mounting pressure to intensify his focus on the economy ahead of the midterm elections, President Obama will call for a $100 billion business tax credit this week, using a speech in Cleveland on Wednesday to launch what administration officials said was a new policy push.

The business proposal - what one aide called a key part of a limited economic package - would increase and permanently extend research and development tax credits for businesses, rewarding companies that develop new technologies domestically and preserve American jobs.

It would be paid for by closing other corporate tax loopholes, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity because the policy has not yet been unveiled.

COMMENT:  I can't imagine this having much electoral effect, although a change of three points in many close races can make a difference. 

According to news reports, the Democrats are preparing to focus only on those races that they feel they have a good chance of winning, cutting loose, from financial and other support, marginal candidates.  It's a kind of political triage.  There is still a belief in Democratic circles, and we do not ridicule it, that the Dems can still hold onto the House, if only by a tiny number of seats.  If they do, of course, it would make Nancy's office plans so much simpler.  It's so hard to get a good moving company these days.  And as for helpful decorators, don't even bother asking. 

There should be other economic proposals later in the week.  Too little, much too late.  Voters want to see results, and even good proposals will take months to work their way through the economy.  The election will be held in only two months.

September 6, 2010