Round 1: Obama

Last night's debate showed the stark contrast between Barack Obama and McCain. Obama's presentation was thoughtful illustrating a complete understanding of our foreign policy situation and the understanding that middle class Americans are struggling. He was in control, did not lose his cool and was able to look at McCain. He definitely came off as presidential. McCain looked the one of the "angry old men" characters. His facial expressions were scary, very angry looking and the fact that he could not look at Obama was very noticeable. His grasp of the issues outlined why he should not be president. His assertion that Obama's position on the surge showed a stubborness that rivaled Bush was incredible from a guy that refuses to acknowledge that he was wrong on Iraq, wrong on deregulation, wrong on Afghanistan and wrong on Pakistan.

The other interesting point is that we now know what they are telling Palin. McCain's whole discussion on earmarks and cutting federal agencies were repeated during her interview with Charlie Gibson. McCain's references to being a maverick and not being Miss Congeniality were lame last night and Palin uses those lines all the time.McCain even referred to himself as "the Sheriff." It's one thing being called that by others but its another to be saying this stuff about oneself. It's rather disturbing coming from a 73 year old man.

With a little over a month to go, Barack needs to continue to hammer the need for change and continue to link Bush to McCain. If he does that he forces McCain into a difficult position. While he wants to talk about change, McCain also talks about experience. While he wants the Bushies support, he tries to distance himself which really looks awkward and disengenious since he has voted with Bush 90% of the time and is so bullish on the Iraq war.

Round 1 goes to Obama