Both : No Home Runs. No Major soundbites. Nothing to change the dynamic.
Kerry : Surprisingly articulate and nimble. his vaunted debate skill did show. He was every bit the Used Car saleman Shyster lawyer he is.
Bush : Stuttered, paused a little to much, seemed on the defensive. Looked just like he did in the Debates with Gore - Obviously uncomfortable with the format. However, He also showed that he is steadfast, comitted and passionate. His love for America and his steel nerve shown through.
Final Score :
Style - Kerry
Image - Bush
BOTTOM LINE - TIE. The only think Joe sixpack will take from this is that there was no "Defining moment", no soundbite to remember -- this means that this debate will be forgotton by next week.
ANALYSIS : Kerry needed a knockout to change the dynamic of the race and he did not get one. You have to Knockout the CHAMP to win the title, and Bush is still standing.
rewatch on Cspan
GWB was fine.