[kingu]

I disagree. Bush might not have done his best, but overall I think he did well and it was a draw.

I think that the draw impression is what will come out in the long run, which is something for Bush to be proud of.. With his being off the track more than a few times, he kept up with Kerry the Debater. (Of course he's a great debater, he always believes both sides of every issue..)

But I can easily see the view from a few Bush supporters that he lost the debate -- too many times, Kerry was wide open for a knockout blow, and Bush wasted the opportunity. A few snap comments would have had Kerry trying for the next week trying to answer them.

In the final balance, Kerry lost the debate - he missed his goal. He had to perform wonderfully, Bush had to stumble. Neither happened, which puts Kerry still behind in the electoral college, and no where near the oval office.

[cyncooper]

I think that the draw impression is what will come out in the long run,

DRUDGE: C-SPAN Secretly Tapes Lockhart Saying Debate Was A Draw

[TOUGH STOUGH]

"In the final balance, Kerry lost the debate - he missed his goal. He had to perform wonderfully, Bush had to stumble. Neither happened, which puts Kerry still behind in the electoral college, and no where near the oval office."

Good assessment and agreed.