Does Obama benefit from the economic Crisis in the U.S.?

The question might have a negative connotation which is not intended. I asked this myself this morning during watching McCain's attempt to suspend the debate on Friday in order to go to Washington. I think him being slightly on top in the polls is a result of the better situation in Iraq and his better commander and chief image. But this is likely to change within the next days. The fact, that McCain tries to avoid confrontation with Obama right now is a good indicator, that this man fears a discussion on the economy.