Obama vs. McCain -- 27 days to go. 2nd Debate: Presidential Visionary vs. Angry Old Man
CNN's poll of people who watched the second presidential debate showed 54 percent saying Democrat Barack Obama won and 30 percent thinking Republican John McCain was the victor.
The most telling observation about Barack Obama's debate performance was an observation that he looked "more Presidential -- in command of his plan, his vision, his priorities."
In response, John McCain was ineffective in recycling his stump speech talking points. He was unconvincing, erratic in his arguments, and was not very crisp in offering specific solutions. He seemed angry at the world for the mess we are in.
This outcome should solidify the lead that Obama has established, but there is still a long ways to go. He has won the first two debates, and capitalized on the economic crisis open up signficiant polling leads in key battleground states. Democrats are regitering more new voters, and they have a well-organized team on the ground that continues to work hard everyday to get out the early vote and rally supporters for a big turnout on November 4th.
If we keep working, we can win. We will win. YES WE CAN!
The most telling observation about Barack Obama's debate performance was an observation that he looked "more Presidential -- in command of his plan, his vision, his priorities."
In response, John McCain was ineffective in recycling his stump speech talking points. He was unconvincing, erratic in his arguments, and was not very crisp in offering specific solutions. He seemed angry at the world for the mess we are in.
This outcome should solidify the lead that Obama has established, but there is still a long ways to go. He has won the first two debates, and capitalized on the economic crisis open up signficiant polling leads in key battleground states. Democrats are regitering more new voters, and they have a well-organized team on the ground that continues to work hard everyday to get out the early vote and rally supporters for a big turnout on November 4th.
If we keep working, we can win. We will win. YES WE CAN!
I definitely agree that Obama is the more competent candidate.
During last night's debate, I often got the impression that McCain was not confident in his own arguments, let alone the American public.
The Marine Corps, when training Marine officers in leadership skills, refers to the concept of "bearing", or the ability to command the respect of your subordinates. There is a certain presence that a leader should have, and in this case, one candidate far outshines the other. In terms of clarity, persuasiveness, and trust, Obama is able to communicate in a way that will build support at home, and build allies abroad.
Not to diminish John McCain's sacrifices or character; he has demonstrated both. But that alone does not justify the Presidency. These are difficult times for America, and the strength or weakness of our foreign policy will determine our future for years to come. Nations such as China and Russia are becoming much stronger economically and politically, and the Middle East is a major threat to our national security.
Unfortunately for McCain, I believe that he will be seen by leaders of those nations as an untrustworthy leader. He represents a party and policy which has been openly deceptive, hostile to friends and foes alike, and has diminished our respect worldwide.
Change is indeed coming. But not with McCain.