After a moving biographical video narrated by the wonderful actor David Straithairn of Hyde park, the speech was worth the wait.

Barack Obama's acceptance address was flawless. It hit the right notes, expressing hopes and dreams and patriotism and strength and, yes, specifics. He challenged John McCain. He met head on the personal attacks he's already encountered in anticipation of more of the same. His was a speech about the future.

Barack Obama set the bar high for himself, to be sure. But he also set it high for his political opponents.

Starting Friday, when McCain is to announce his VP selection, it will be fascinating to see how the Republican campaign proceeds.

Will McCain debate Obama on the issues, or will he try to distract Americans with nonsense? More importantly, will Americans let themselves be distracted?