The Official Debate Thread (Round 1)

[mheisig]

I'll preface this post once again by stating my political affiliation since in this day and age arguments aren't judged by themselves but by the person making the argument: Long time Republican, thoroughly disgusted with and embarrassed by the Bush era. Frankly I don't like either one of these candidates, but I like Obama less and less and I've officially abandoned any and all hope for either aprt. I'll end up voting for whoever I feel is the lesser of the two evils at this point.

That being said, I agree the debate was pretty much a draw, but I would give the edge to Obama. In terms of what was said there was nothing surprising, just the usual talking points.

Where I think McCain lost ground was in his nonverbal behavior. He just came across as a cantankerous old man whereas I think Obama managed to project himself as a little more calm and a little more mature (oddly enough). I don't know what McCain's debate coaches are teaching him, but constant smirking and scoffing when your opponent is making a point just makes you look like a douchebag. Obama did a little of this, but not nearly to the extent as McCain. They'd be far more effective if, as their opponent is making a point, they would look him in the eye and look thoughtful and contemplative, rather than staring at the podium, the audience, or smirking the entire time.

Overall nothing surprising. Minor gaffes on both sides - I guess if the biggest news coming out of the debate is whether or not McCain muttered "horseshit" under his breath it was pretty much a non-event.

But hey, whatever helps the YouTube fodder. Any time we can get funny videos of Palin on here or someone to declare a candidate "a dope," I know this country is heading in the right direction.