Try---try,folks---to look at this debate through the eyes of an "undecided" voter in this election. That basically means look at this debate as someone who takes only the slightest of interest in politics every four years, someone who doesn't have a very deep understanding of the issues.
Those meeting John Kerry for the first time tonight, and being reintroduced to George W. Bush in comparison to a fresh, new opponent, have watched the first 20 minutes of this and thought John Kerry has gotten the best of this debate.
Why? George Bush is coming across as defensive, trying to make his point almost solely through force (raising his voice, etc.). Those clumsy pauses and, well, confusing Saddam Hussein and Osama Bin Laden, make him seem...tired, not totally dialed in.
One reason why Kerry is doing well is he's not being an ass like Al Gore was four years ago. Notice he's being careful to be respectful, nodding whenever Bush makes a positive comment, etc.
So far, if this was a boxing match, it'd be 10-9 Kerry through the first couple of rounds.
Hopefully the president will step it up a bit over the next hour, 'cause he's being reactionary and slow at the moment.
What about the comment Bush just made about "How's he gonna pay for it?". THAT was a germane point to make, then he confuses the issue by saying "but that's for another debate."
Huh?
Then, after downing Kerry for wanting to spend more money on homeland security---in the *very next breath*---he starts boasting about the billions in new spending he's authorized in recent years.
So, it's bad to spend freely on new programs... but not when I do it.
C'mon, Mr. President!
W is wavering!
OK,,talking about the 87 billion
W is reallyl on the defense. I'm now listening via net versus watching, and W sounds better. Bush's body language seems distracting. Kerry sounds authoritative. W. isn't hitting Kerry's weak poionts like he could. And W. has failed to point out how K has lied, not voted for funding, etc.
HAPPY NOW?
OTOH,I think that YOU need to stop typing and just watch the debate,since it appears that you aren't watching the same one I'm watching. Kerry isn't winning this,though the president isn't as forceful as I wish he were.
HAPPY NOW?
OTOH,I think that YOU need to stop typing and just watch the debate,since it appears that you aren't watching the same one I'm watching. Kerry isn't winning this,though the president isn't as forceful as I wish he were.