Much of this week’s news has been international – including the ongoing race for the White House.  There is speculation about whether Barack Obama – now trailing McCain in the polls – can strengthen his appeal to the mass of Americans.  Instead, his high-flying rhetoric and ‘Obamamania’ have irritated some and alienated many who wonder whether this inexperienced young man can ‘walk the walk’ as well as he ‘talks the talk’.  Hillary, meanwhile, is savvy enough to back him – on the basis that if Obama stumbles then the ultimate prize could still be hers in 2012.