Do you know this guy?

 This is Arizona Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee for the presidency of the United States. On the first day of the 2008 Republican National Convention, his convention, there was barely a mention or image of the man.

And that's with a 1,500-square-foot, high-def television monitor as the Xcel Energy Center's leading design statement.

 Instead, all attention was directed toward Gustav and high-flying anchors covering Gustav and McCain's running mate, Sarah Palin, and Palin's pregnant 17-year-old daughter.

 Question: Is this good for McCain or bad for him? Americans want to feel like they know their candidates. We know John McCain. He's made sure of that with years of Straight Talk, a phrase so identified with the senator he might have it trademarked.

What we don't know is Sarah Palin, McCain's late-summer surprise. Voters were primed to see McCain with one of his close allies, Sen. Joe Lieberman or former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge, both reported to have been his initial top choices. Then the Christian evangelists made themselves heard and the boat was steered in uncharted waters. So, now, what dominates is the story of Palin. And the story of how quickly McCain chose Palin. And whether this shows brilliance on his part, as well as celebrating his essential maverick qualities, and hers, or shows an impetuous, emotional nature perhaps best not suited to the White House.

 Tonight, the convention hopes to return to some sense of normalcy. President Bush is expected to speak. Other politicians, instead of spouses, are expected to speak. And perhaps the dialogue can return to normal, Gustav willing.