The tensions fed a sense of defiance within the campaign.
It arises from the paradox within the campaign themes Mr. McCain has laid out.
The fighting within the campaign has not just been about personalities.
"No one really blamed Alistair," said a source within the campaign.
At the same time, Mr. Clinton was releasing steam that had built up within the campaign over news coverage.
"But within the campaign, Valerie had been saying, 'You guys, you're not getting this issue right,' " recalls a top official.
There were already minor signs of stress within the campaign, which has kept up a punishing schedule in recent weeks.
The mood within the campaign was cautiously optimistic, with few signs of a team bracing for the unexpected.
Within the campaign, Clinton's enthusiasm for rustling votes in these remote corners was a source of amusement.
How could this be?" Paul Begala, pundit and Clinton adviser reveals a small split within the campaign.
Sometimes, donors got too involved, but at least they were working within the campaign, not around it.
