Where’s the Outrage?

I guess the question is how a presidential debate is won. There is no referee other than the American populace and the moderator does not stand up and call a time-out every time a candidate stretches the truth. So how do you win?

I guess the answer is to look presidential, (whatever that is). You need to look calm, cool and in complete command of the subject.

The tasks at the beginning of this debate were completely different for each candidate. Sen. John McCain needed to convince the American people that he has a viable plan to fix our economy. He needed to persuade the American people that he is on their side. He also needed to let them know that he is not only different than George W. Bush, but better. Finally, John McCain must convince us that all of the flailing around that we saw with the economy over the last several weeks has been merely an illusion. McCain had to prove to us that he knows what he is doing.

Sen. Barack Obama, on the other hand, needed only to continue doing what he’s been doing. He needed to continue to show that he understands the economy and that his plan is better for the middle class. He also needed to combat the negative attacks and to get out of this debate without screaming, “I’m a terrorist.”

Unfortunately for the Republican ticket, John McCain had a nearly impossible task, whereas Barack Obama had a task that was easily within his grasp. John McCain looked angry, even frustrated at times. Barack Obama continued to look as if he is in charge and understands the issues. John McCain was not able to distance himself from George W. Bush. He stated that he was not George W. Bush, but never clearly articulated how his economic plan was different than something Bush would propose. Barack Obama skillfully disarmed the Bill Ayers issue. The ACORN allegations were never completely explained by John McCain. Once again, Barack Obama successfully articulated that his campaign has nothing to do with ACORN.

There were multiple times when Barack Obama had an opportunity to go for the jugular and he didn’t…not once. I think Barack Obama and his advisers decided that going directly after John McCain or Sarah Palin would make him appear petty. Maybe they did focus groups. I don’t know. But I do know that Barack Obama took the high road at every opportunity. At the same time, he did not cower from John McCain. He stood up for himself and his proposals. This may be why he won all three debates.

Tags: Domestic Issues, Election 2008, Energy //