The first debate is over and the spin machines are running full out. The hacks are making their absurd claims of total victory. Virtually every scientific poll and focus group so far has Obama with a close or clear win. I'm reluctant to jump on that wagon at this point; although, as a debate coach I can tell you victory is declared by the "judges." Regardless of our partisan perspectives, or even our dispassionate evaluations of the arguments, when the "judges" (voters) vote, then we have a winner. For now I think it is fair to suggest a draw with a slight edge to Obama. I have a feeling over the next day or so, as the analysis filters in, it will evolve into a bigger win for Barack. But, no one is getting a KO here.
I'm not going to walk you through my debate flow. Instead, allow me just a few observations.
I think Jim Lehrer did a great job, except for his odd attempts to get the debaters to go after each other directly. While that might make for better TV drama, direct engagement tends to highlight something other than the issues. Much has been made of McCain's shiftiness and unwillingness to look Obama in the eyes. I wasn't particularly bothered by that during the debate. Keep it focused on the "judges" and the issues, not on personal attacks. But, here's what's strange about that--Obama made more direct contact, but was more issue-focused. McCain avoided direct contact but made more personal attacks. Interesting. Obama seems to come out of that looking more presidential. I do think McCain's squinting, smirking, and general nonverbal disdain for Obama hurt him. Watch the debate with the sound off and Obama wins the nonverbal contest hands down.
As an Obama supporter, I was delighted to see that he has been successfully coached out of the vocalized pause ditch. Virtually no "uhs," "looks," or "y'knows." He was clear and direct. Nice work, debate coaches. I suspect there were many drinking game participants disappointed by McCain's improved rhetoric as well. Only one or two "my friends," and with the exception of his reference near the end, he did not answer every question by connecting it to his POW experience.
I think McCain scored some points in keeping the experience argument alive and continuing to cast Obama as naive. However, there was nothing new here. In fact, most of McCain's best lines were borrowed from his stump speeches. Obama seemed fresh and assertive. He blunted nearly all of those attacks, successfully turned some, but a few of McCain's condescensions and fear tactics (or were they strategies?) may still make their way through the clutter.
On the whole I thought the debate was a success. Neither debater faltered in any signficant way; there were no big dramatic moments or gaffes. I know this disappoints many in the media. But, at the end of the day the debate did what it should. We saw a clear contrast of styles, different governing philosophies, distinct views on the role of government, and a showcase of leadership temperament. The debate helped us make a better decision. Precisely what it was supposed to do.
It was nice to see Joe Biden covering his mate's back after the debate. Where in the world was Palin? Hmm.
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