The rules were clear they weren't supposed to bring anything with them. It appeared, to me, pen and paper for notes were already placed on the podium for each man. POTUS didn't take a paper out of his pocket and I saw him take a couple of notes, which further confirms something was placed there in advance for their note-taking-use...
If you read the transcript some answers and questions seemed to be pre-orchestrated. It "could" be President Bush saw what happened and was thrown by it -- which "could" explain some of what happened that evening with his seeming to be disconnected and/or angry. Leher IS known as the Democrats commentator.
It "could" be President Bush saw what happened and was thrown by it --GRASSY KNOLL
IMHO I think Kerry had the questions in advance and had the answers on the 3x5's.
That is why is appeared to be sooooo smooth.