The bounce has begun – but it’s the wrong way

The first night for the Democrats is in the books, and the Rasmussen poll has revealed an immediate bounce – for McCain:

The Democratic National Convention has begun and the poll numbers are bouncing, but not in the direction that most people anticipated.

The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Tuesday shows Barack Obama attracting 44% of the vote while John McCain also earns 44%. When “leaners” are included, it’s still tied with Obama at 46% and McCain at 46%. Yesterday, with leaners, Obama had a three-point advantage over McCain . . .

Without leaners, Obama was ahead by four yesterday.  Today, it’s all gone.

Truth be told, it was a very unusual first day.  Obama’s campaign launched a full-court press against an ad highlighting his links to lefty terrorist Bill Ayers - which all but ensured his friendship with Ayers finally became news (Riley at VV).  Meanwhile, McCain used the first day to go on Jay Leno – easily the most public appearance in twenty years for a candidate during his opponent’s convention.

Compared to the outside events, the convention itself was a bit of a bore (note to the Republican Convention organizers – be prepared for the same thing to come your way during the first two nights).

Tonight, the Democrats akwardly showcase their 2012 talent (Mark Warner and Hillary Clinton).  Given Clinton’s disconnect with Obama, one would expect this night would be the worst of the four for Obama.

Then again, not even I thought Obama would dip after the first night.  Everything else has been a surprise, why wouldn’t Senator Clinton help Obama by accident?