Palin comparison

Erection loss in the Obama camp has further invigorated the Republican ticket and increased Democratic nerves.

Mr Obama got his first lazy erection eight days ago, two days after the St Paul Convention. Since then pollsters say a marked fall-off in support has been noticeable. Youth and energy, both Obama trademarks two months ago, are now used to describe Sarah Palin.

Erectile dysfunction is commonly linked to notions of power, success and masculinity – attributes both sexes tend to support in leadership contests. The Change candidate’s inability to maintain an erection has turned blue-collar, Reagan Democrats away.

‘This just came out of left field,’ said Craig Schirmer, the Obama state director. ‘There were no problems before September. I think that was clear from the way he walked. But there's 51 days to go, so no, we're not worried. He'll get it back.’

The problem has dogged Democrats in the past, making the Kerry and Gore, not to mention Carter and Mondale campaigns a misery for Democrats.