Not only did Bush do poorly, but Kerry did extremely well. His

[Ruffhowse]

performance will convert many Kerry supporters from "anyone but Bush" types to outright Kerry fans. This is going to energize a whole new level of supporters for Kerry and really pick up the campaign. This debate was absolutely pivotal for the election, and Kerry came through like a champ. His demeanor was perfectly presidential, he spoke clearly and succinctly, he always sounded well informed, he managed his time well, and he kept Bush constantly on the defensive. It can only get better with 2 debates to go.

[pacalo]

1. The debate on domestic issues should be interesting.

[OneBlueSky]

2. and I think it's important to point out . . .

that it wasn't an act, or the results of months of preparation, or trying to be something he's not . . . it was just Kerry being Kerry -- informed, thoughtful, very knowledgable about the issues, approachable, and thoroughtly presidential . . .

and conversely, Bush was just being Bush . . . choose your own adjectives . . . :)