It’s too late to put together a well reasoned thoughtful post on the debate. And besides, I like using bullet points. So, some semi-random thoughts on the debate.
- The two candidates had different goals. Biden’s goal was to attack McCain. Palin’s goal was to reassure Americans that she is the real deal. Both did an admirably job of accomplishing their goal
- You will hear pundits talk about who won on “points.” This is because all those journalists went to some Ivy League school where they had to take a debate class which was scored on whether you answered every point your opponent made. But this is a public political debate. It’s the political equivalent of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” The points don’t matter.
- I thought Joe Biden sounded pretty good the first half of the debate. But the last 30 minutes he seemed to get angry and slightly flustered.
- Can anyone explain to me why Obama and Biden think going to war in Iraq is unforgivable, but going to war in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Darfur, and Bosnia is just peachy? For bonus points explain to me how they will not allow Iran to get nukes, since any discussion of moving against Iran is war-mongering?
- Is there anyone in the country besides Joe Biden who really thinks John McCain wanted to cut off funding for the troops?
- Palin made no serious mistakes, looked great, talked directly to Americans and generally looked competent. Early reactions seem to indicate most people liked Sarah. A bad performance could have nearly derailed the McCain campaign, which is suffering this week. Her strong performance will allow the McCain campaign to turn their attention fully toward the remaining debates and final push. Biden didn’t land any blows against McCain that haven’t already been repeated a dozen times. Therefore, advantage Palin.
