Sep 27 2008
Debate Not Great
DEBATE NOT GREAT - A Bit Boring
Polls published the morning after the first Presidential Debate of 2008 give Senator Obama the edge in viewer opinions. A CBS poll shows that slightly more than half of the viewers polled thought that Obama had “won” the debate; a CNN poll shows a greater Obama favorable rating.
The exact percentages on these polls are about as meaningless as the regular polls. I haven’t seen any Presidential Debate performances that potentially changed the outcome of a race since Nixon-Kennedy in 1960. I guess that shows my age.
Some viewers thought that McCain was petulant. I read one comment online that said 70-year-old men act like they are 70 or they are 15; never in between.
Obama was perceived as the stronger debater on the economy; McCain on foreign affairs and national security. Since the debate topic in general was foreign affairs and national security, I would have to say that McCain fared okay at the very least. I don’t think he lost any of his own supporters by this performance.
“Obama was polite and respectful,” commented a viewer. Whether that will be perceived as being weak or being “statesmanlike” remains to be seen. I think Obama showed well and may have attracted some “uncommitteds” to his side.
I think Obama will benefit the most, in the long run, by the additional national exposure he receives throughout the debates. I think that his overall presentation and demeanor will leave favorable impressions on the viewers.
I am surprised Obama got the edge but many were not really happy with the debate. They thought it was a bit flat.