In the Headlines

"McCain says Biden attests to concerns about Obama" (Glen Johnson, AP) - John McCain's criticism that Barack Obama isn't experienced enough to be president got a boost when the Democrat's own running mate, Joe Biden, told donors that he expected his boss to be tested, if elected, by a "generated crisis" shortly after taking office.

"McCain is fighting Obama's momentum in Missouri" (Bob Drogin, Los Angeles Times) - Two days after Barack Obama drew 100,000 supporters to a rally in St. Louis, John McCain attracted about 2,500 people to a field in this nearby suburb Monday, a visible symbol of the challenge the Republican nominee faces in this crucial state.

"Poll: Obama gains in key swing counties" (Alexander Burns, The Politico) - Sen. Barack Obama has made new gains in two key counties that could tip the balance in the swing states of Nevada and North Carolina, according to the results of a new Politico/InsiderAdvantage poll.

"McCain Emphasizes Distance From Bush" (Michael Abramowitz and Michael D. Shear, Washington Post) - Battling George W. Bush for the GOP presidential nomination in 2000, John McCain lashed out at the Texas governor, denouncing his proposed tax cuts as a giveaway to the rich.

On the Morning Shows

Today - Nicole Wallace on a Washington Post/ABC poll saying Palin is hurting the ticket: "Sarah Palin is a tremendous asset and someone who has electrified the race. She's someone women and their daughters wait for hours to meet."

Robert Gibbs on Biden's comment that Obama will be tested in the first six months: "The next president is going to be tested not just internationally but here at home as we face a global economic crisis. He doesn't believe like McCain at the beginning of this economic crisis that our economy is strong."

(Greg Bobrinskoy contributed to the Morning Report.)