[Aetius]

It'd would be nice if Bush brought up a few of these things tomorrow night, and if he forcefully articulates the truth that his economic record is actually good considering all that the economy has had going against it since he took office; things that were beyond his control like the shock of 9-11, corporate scandals, and the inheritance of an economy that was clearly on the down slope of the business cycle.

I hate to sound like a dick, but I just don't have confidence in Bush's ability to think on his feet, so I hope such responses are drilled into him by his preppers.

[truthchaser]

"Bush" and "articulate" are two words which unfortunately don't appear together too often when discussing debates. Honesty, transparency, sincerity, fortitude... these are the qualities he usually projects quite well, and the reason many people voted and will continue to vote for him. In my opinion, they came through in the first debate, though not to the usual degree which was surprising and yes somewhat concerning considering the subject. Expectations have been lowered after that last performance, and the President does better in that context, who knows maybe part of a rope-a-dope strategy. But yes, everything you said about the economy is right on and I hope the President finds his voice while at the same time retaining his obvious character appeal. We all know he has the edge on substance, but it just isn't going to be enough in this election.