In the depths of an economic crisis, recent polls show that attacks are backfiring on John McCain. But the message from his Republican base was to come out swinging. That he did in his last debate with Barack Obama — on taxes, healthcare and Obama’s alleged association with 60’s anti-war extremist Bill Ayers.

In what’s being called the "most intense," "spirited and combative" of their three debates, Obama maintained what one paper labeled "amused detachment."

With so little time left, did it make a difference? Did McCain successfully separate himself from President Bush? Did Obama stay ahead by staying cool? What about the economy? We hear from strategists on both sides and get reaction from the battleground states of Virginia, Ohio and Indiana.

Guests:
– Jeff Schapiro: Political reporter and columnist, "Richmond Times-Dispatch"
– Mary Beth Schneider: Reporter, "Indianapolis Star"
– Jonathan Risking: Washington Bureau Chief, "Columbus Dispatch"
– Ed Kilgore: Managing Editor, Democratic Strategist
– Steve Kornacki: Columnist, "New York Observer"
– David Winston: Republican pollster and strategist, Winston Group

Hosted by award-winning journalist Warren Olney, "To the Point" presents informative and thought-provoking discussion of major news stories — front-page issues that attract a savvy and serious news audience.

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