Thoughts on the First Presidential Debate

It looks as if Obama is being credited with the better performance. That wasn't my initial impression, but on second thought, I think it's a reasonable analysis. McCain didn't make a fool of himself by any means, but he also didn't blow Obama out of the water with regard to Iraq and other foreign policy matters, which is probably what he needed to do. He needed to make Obama look like a chastened puppy, and that clearly didn't happen. Others have picked up on McCain's nearly constant annoying facial expressions: smirks, grimaces, and other signs of contempt. He seldom even made eye contact with Obama, and barely acknowledged his presence throughout the debate. I should think most people don't like that sort of attitude in a candidate. At least, people who don't already support McCain enthusiastically probably won't like it. On the whole, advantage goes to Obama, who came across as credible on foreign policy. I believe the vice presidential debate takes place Thursday, Oct. 2. From what I've seen of Palin, she is going to do very poorly indeed. Biden just needs to avoid being boorish towards her to win easily.