TRACKERS

Posted at 2:39 p. m. ET

Both trackers are now out.  Gallup gives Obama a one-day bounce of three points, rather unusual in recent weeks.  Gallup had the race tied yesterday.  By contrast, Rasmussen has Obama with a one-point lead, down from two yesterday.  Averaging, Obama has, at least in these trackers, a two-point lead.

The one-day bounce for Obama in the Gallup survey may just be statistical noise and a normal variation.  We'll know as we examine the trends of this week.  I would not, however, be shocked to see a slight gain for Obama this week, as he will be getting most of the attention.  The Democratic convention starts next Monday, and he will probably name his vice-presidential choice sometime in the next five days.

A key point:  McCain keeps the race close, but doesn't seem to be able to pull ahead.  Close means nothing on election day.  There is no silver medal in politics. 

August 18, 2008.