Quick thoughts on last night's debate 10082008

Some quick thoughts on last night's debate ibetween Obama and McCain in Nashville:

Obama appeared more presidential than McCain. He improved his performance from the Rick Warren interview, for example, by shortening his answers and making a connection with middle America- emphasizing that economy, energy, and education were kitchen table issues that he was immersed in thinking about and already responsibile for improving. However, McCain spouted a lot of filler, especially beating the American exceptionalism drum--Americans are the best workers, best producers, best citizens, etc.

McCain seemed to take more cues from Obama, repeating phrases and answers Obama said. McCain's answer to the last question is an example, when he repeated Obama's statement that what often impacts even defines a new president's term is the unexpected crisis, not necessarily the problems he faces taking office.

Obama was aggressive without being offensive, often standing up and starting toward the center of the stage even when McCain was asked to address the question first. Obama seemed eager, energetic.
In contrast, McCain seemed, well, erratic, walking halting back and forth on stage, circling and looking stiff or as if he might stumble.

McCain needs to drop the assertion that Obama is "green" by signaling to Pakistan that he would invade them. Obviously, McCain is twisting Obama's words; it doesn't work.

The biggest surprise was McCain's $300B plan for distressed homeowners...which came across as too little to late. Or too much too late according to late night commentaries which reported that even conservatives balked at McCain's new plan.

McCain's campaign made a wise choice in not fueling the anger of Obama and his supporters by bringing up the sludge of guilt by association, i.e., William Ayers or even Rev. Wright. Nonetheless, McCain seems like his campaign is out of gas.