Conservatives are so funny. They seem to think that Bush has lost every debate he's ever participated in until proven otherwise.
I think this owes, in part, to our fancy for someone who can "act". Hollywood has really done a number on us. We still perceive style as being more persuasive than substance, on some level.
I couldn't agree more -- underestimated! They also seem to forget that President Bush toured the areas ravaged by the latest Florida hurricane to view the damage and comfort the victims of the hurricane. At the same time Mr. Pampered was getting his hair styled, makeup applied, and a manicure! Bet the people of S. Florida know who they can count on and it sure isn't Mr. Pampered!
BTW, this little gem popped up at National Review:
INTERESTING [KJL]
More of what Bush camp is noting: How important is “winning” the first debate? Since 1984, when Gallup began asking the question, “Regardless of which candidate you happen to support, who do you think did the better job in the debate?”, only one candidate to win this measure in the first debate went on to be elected. In 1996, Bill Clinton “won” the first debate and went on to be elected President. Candidates Gore, Perot, Dukakis, and Mondale all “won” their first debates, but failed to win election.
Sept. 30, 2004: Kerry 53/ Bush 37 (-16)
Oct. 3, 2000: Gore 48/Bush 41 (-7)
Oct. 6, 1996 Clinton 51/Dole 32 (-19)
Oct. 11, 1992 Perot: 47/Clinton 30/ Bush 16 (-17, -31)
Sept. 28, 1998 Dukakis 38/ Bush 29 (-9)
Sept. 28-30, 1984 Mondale 54/Reagan 35 (-19)
Exactly. The reaction to the first debate with Gore was that Gore slapped him around. The long term winner of a debate usually ends up being the guy who deserves to win. In a few days Gallup and some other big pollsters will show this as a net win or draw for Dubya, I figure a win. Kerry handed us a bunch of stuff last night and Dubya handed them nothing.
Well said!