Soul Seeker, I'm in exactly the same place as you are. In 2000, I did care, but not 3% of what I care now. IN 2000, I could watch it dispassionately, without caring as much.
Tonight, I couldn't even really watch it, because I was so nervous and cared so much. I have watched the sound bites, and did follow it on FR. My heart sank every time somebody said W wasn't doing well. But I'm a true believer and can't abide Kerry - nothing would change my vote. Kerryites obviously hang on everything their candidate does (can't believe there are any of those, but there must be).
Had I been looking at it to make a decision one way or the other, my viewpoint would have been totally different. Bottom line - you're right, partisans look more at style probably than undecideds.
Exactly.
Bush won on substance.
Substance trumps Style points.
The polls will declare the debate a draw or win for kerry on style.
Votes will be determined on substance. Bush still holds the edge.