I think his behavior after the crisis became the big news is what sunk the ticket, leaving the campaign trial and going back to DC, threatening to cancel the first debate which was about three days away, and generally appearing panicky rather than calm. Clueless Obama looked better saying nothing for several days and just standing to the side.
I doubt many people specifically based their vote on McCain's supporting the bailout. Obama sure supported it, so there was no distinction there, just as there was no distinction between McCain and Obama on several major issues.
I think the economic crisis of last October was completely manufactured. It scared the American people. Up until it became news McCain-Palin were ahead 8 points after the Republican Convention. Day by day I saw that lead shrink on the map as the media began to scream crisis on the economy.
When the American people are afraid they vote for Democrats. Which is why FDR got 4 terms. When Americans are fearless and strong and secure they vote for Republicans. Which is why Reagan got two terms.
I don't believe Barack Ugabe was "clueless". I think his campaign was given a heads-up, and Barack Ugabe was told to keep his head down. It is my opinion that the entire "economic meltdown crisis, oh my!", which occurred just 6 weeks before the general election (by sheer coincidence, LMAO!), was timed and orchestrated by somebody who had a big stake in seeing Barack Ugabe get elected. Now, who in the world of big finance and money dealing would have the kind of wealth and influence to pull off something like this?