Presidential Debate #1

[AzX5]

No comments yet on the debate last night? I think it was a tie, neither candidate was overly impressive.

McCain did seem to have a ton of real-world experience to draw from, while Obama seemed to have a lot of book smarts.

Neither candidate had a knockout quote to remember for the ages and neither candidate made any major gaffs. Will be interesting to see the polls in the coming days to see if any independents have changed their minds or made up their mind based on the debate.

If you missed the debate, the transcript can be found here:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/09/...ipt/index.html

[MrLabGuy]

I also feel it was a tie though a tie for McCain is a win for Obama considering the topic. McCain seemed tired as well he should be with back and forth to Washington. Obama's cramming for the exam paid off and he came across better than he had in past interviews where he seemed long winded.

McCain was himself for the most part and Obama was coached and polished like the good student he is in real life.

Problem is he's still a student. He might actually one day make a good president but not now.

[chilliwilli]

It was a good rounded first debate. Was expecting more depth regarding why or why not the bailout would be an effective remedy. Felt it was leaning towards a tie as well...however, after hearing McCain admit that the US did in fact torture, contradicting what the President has been saying, i gave the edge to Obama.

Looking forward to the first vice presidential debate now...

[tijanaw]

Good and well balanced debate, interesting to watch. McCain def looked tired, wonder if he'll be able to hang on for years if he wins. That's really what I'm mostly worried about.
What's the deal with him not willing to look at and face Obama?? wonder if that a plus or minus for McCain? thoughts?

[cmyX6go]

Originally Posted by tijanaw

What's the deal with him not willing to look at and face Obama?? wonder if that a plus or minus for McCain? thoughts?

McCain appears to be disgusted by Obama and acts as if Obama isn't even there. It's condescending. Personally, I take it as a negative. One should have a firm handshake and always look the other person in the eye.

[Dannyell]

Originally Posted by cmyX5go

McCain appears to be disgusted by Obama and acts as if Obama isn't even there. It's condescending. Personally, I take it as a negative. One should have a firm handshake and always look the other person in the eye.

I had the same feeling about McCain last night...he made very little eye contact and that smile off his when Obama was talking heheh

None looked special, but as most of us would agree both are better than the current one so thats at least a relief....

[MrLabGuy]

Originally Posted by cmyX5go

McCain appears to be disgusted by Obama and acts as if Obama isn't even there. It's condescending. Personally, I take it as a negative. One should have a firm handshake and always look the other person in the eye.

It's a common debate tactic. Speak to the people not your opponent. The only time you acknowledge your opponent is the opening and closing handshake.

Did you also notice how Obama said he agreed with McCain about a half dozen times or more? McCain never once said he agreed with Obama that I could remember.

[chonko]

Originally Posted by cmyX5go

McCain appears to be disgusted by Obama and acts as if Obama isn't even there. It's condescending. Personally, I take it as a negative. One should have a firm handshake and always look the other person in the eye.

I definitely agree with your observation.

[Wagner]

Originally Posted by AzX5

No comments yet on the debate last night? I think it was a tie, neither candidate was overly impressive.

McCain did seem to have a ton of real-world experience to draw from, while Obama seemed to have a lot of book smarts.

Neither candidate had a knockout quote to remember for the ages and neither candidate made any major gaffs. Will be interesting to see the polls in the coming days to see if any independents have changed their minds or made up their mind based on the debate.

If you missed the debate, the transcript can be found here:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/09/...ipt/index.html

Agreed. The debate made good points for both candidates, but to there respective constituents. I don't think either person pulled anyone from the other side. That said, I thought it was a good discussion. It was interesting watching CNN after the debate trying to spin it in favor of Obama. I think only two "experts" on their panel said it was a tie. I was surprised that Obama didn't look "better", I was expecting this expert speaker and there was quite a bit of "ah, ah ,ah, ah..um um um". McCain looked like..McCain. A person nearly 8 decades old

[MiCkEy]

My concern? They both did not impress. Nothing out of the ordinary...I agree they do not have a magic wand to fix this mess but still. Show an ordinary American something to look forward to.