…but nobody came. Probably just as well, because I pretty much spent most of the evening wanting to throw things at the TV. Let’s be fair, these guys haven’t had much sleep in the last couple days, but I didn’t realize how badly lack of sleep affects one’s hearing. Because neither one of them seemed to be able to hear or comprehend a single question that Jim Lehrer posed. Basically, they’d hear the catch phrase in the question, “Iraq” or “Russia” or whatever, and they’d launch into answering whatever question they wanted that only loosely related to the topic.
Yes, I know, this is nothing new in debates or presidential politics. But, for the love of all things holy… can we please get a straight answer around here? Mr. Obama, what will you give up in light of the federal bailout? “Um, well, let me tell you which programs I want to add.” Okay, Senator McCain, what will you give up? “I want to cut taxes.” Seriously? Were either of you listening at all?
My favorite part? “Please address each other as you respond.” It took a full three direct requests by Jim Lehrer before either one of them realized how the debate was supposed to work. And even then, they weren’t very good at it. Obama started getting around to it after awhile, but I don’t believe McCain ever actually addressed Obama the entire debate. Maybe it’s just that I’m too much of a rule follower, but when the moderator tells you how the debate is supposed run, follow the format, or you look like idiots.
I don’t think either candidate came out looking exceptionally peachy. There was a lot of name dropping, and mischaracterizing of statements and positions. But does anyone out there feel like they actually know either one any better? No one’s going to be changing their votes. And undecided voters may just decide not to vote at all (assuming the undecided voters even bother to watch debates). I will say, however, that Senator McCain missed an amazing amount of opportunities to catch Obama in lies and mischaracterizations. He seemed to be trying so hard to come off as Miss Congeniality (despite a number of comments to the opposite), that he was afraid to step on Obama’s toes. Senator Obama, on the other hand, missed few opportunities to point out McCain’s mischaracterizations. He was forceful and confident, and used a surpisingly few number of “Um’s.” Looks like someone’s been practicing. Despite my dissapointment in both candidates this evening, I’m declaring round one for Obama.
We had to TiVo the debate and watch it later due to conflicts. I think that worked to our advantage as we got so irritated with the debate that we started forwarding through some of the more repetative tripe (Iraq War blame game). I totally understand your frustration with the guys not answering the questions, too. Gilbert felt like McCain was very condescending towards Obama. I think he said, …”what Senator Obama doesn’t seem to understand…” about 20 times. Annoying. I thought Obama was fairly timid, but polished. I agree, Round 1 to Obama. I am VERY interested to hear more about both of thier economic plans next time.
Glad someone else likes to discuss this!
Nicole, Yes, I did notice McCain talking down to Obama. I’m pretty sure it was to counteract Obama’s billion attempts to tie him to President Bush. It’s definitely something they’ve both been coached to do, because if this election is about Bush, then Obama wins hands down. And if the election is about experience and international issues, then McCain wins. So I think they’ve both been told to look for any opportunity to drive the conversation that way. Unfortunately, neither are very good at it, and it’s rather transparent. I sure wish they would just answer the actual question instead!
I wish I could have been to your party. I would have gladly thrown things at the tv. I am SO SICK of the candidates telling me everything wrong with their opponent…..WHAT DO YOU STAND FOR! I’m still not sure. One thing is clear – they stand for the other one NOT being president. I can’t stand any of them.
I so so wish I could have gone!!! Man, maybe if I would have read this earlier, we would have come
. I am really excited/feeling anxiety for Sarah Palin right now. She is going to get her butt kicked tonight so bad it is going to be laughable. I feel sorry for her almost… almost.