you're absolutely right, alas. this was not the president's finest hour. there were a hundred places where he could have, with a smile on his face and love in his heart, dismembered kerry. and he didn't. he was defensive the entire time, and it came off poorly. there is no way to argue rationally that bush won the debate.
here's hoping most people watched the football game.
Your analysis is spot-on! My wife and I listened to the debate on the radio and were so disheartened to hear Bush stammer and hesitate. He let Kerry define the issues and played defense all night. Others have said Bush did not seem prepared. I concur.
The polls will get closer. Bush needs to come out swinging in the next debate.
Pray.