I found John McCain's condescending behavior distasteful. Barack Obama, on the other hand, was very respectful and kept his cool, whereas McCain appeared on the edge of a temper tantrum on several occasions. Also, John McCain several times went on and on about past events that had nothing to do with any present situation. This was to show his experience and record, but it came across as him being old, out of touch, and 'yesterday's politician'. His campaign is claiming Obama is stuck in the past. Not only is this untrue, but if that is their only criticism of his performance in the debate...well....they are really reaching. It was clear to me that it is Obama who will lead our country with honor, strength, and wisdom–a welcome change after the last 8 humiliating years.

mccain learned one thing from bush – the smirk – if i could of, i would have reached in the tv and smacked him up side his head for that little smirk, what a jerk! if i have to go through 4 years of seeing him and the dimwitted palin on the nightly news i'm going to need a boatload of prozac – god help our country.

I thought McCain outscored Obama on most of the questions. McCain seriously demonstrated his depth of experience and breadth of knowledge. I have come to believe that the crisis we are facing in the economy and domestically are due to corruption and lobbyist loyalties not just in Wall Street, but in Washington. That's not all Bush, but the legislature. Obama needs to take ownership of that and stop blaming Bush for all of it. McCain clearly showed his record, but Obama kept blaming Bush. Take accountability Obama–it's your fault too!

Obama and McCain both score some good points. I think this was a debate that McCain clearly had to win by a large margin. He was not substantially better than Obama on any foreign policy subject although he talked down to Obama trying to score points implying that he was better. Also what was with John McCain not once looking at Barack ?

Is it that important that McCain didn t looked to Obama? Who cares. It is just a sign of predominance.

Barack won.

McCain's smirk was just too much. The content of the debate and the performance of the individuals was pretty even, but when you factor in McCain's disrespectful smirk and his lecturing Obama made it clearly a Obama win.

Obama won!!

For me foregn policy is suppose to be John Mcain's strong area but Obama really shows courage and future plans. I believe Obama has the edge at the long run.

Every time John McCain seemed to stumped he reverted to a war story – he seemed unconvincing and at times at a loss to offer anything new – Obama was polite (maybe to polite) but seemed far more presidential.
These are tough times we need new ideas new thinking and vigor. Obama wins this debate easily.

Bob Gregg

McCain looked at home–at a retirement home. How many times can you bring up pork barrel spending and Ronald Reagan? How about trying being your own man and living in the 21st Century? If Palin is half as bad as McCain, they should pull her now, send her back to her ice floe. This campaign is lost as long as McCain and Palin continue on the ticket.

Is it too late to find a competent guy?

McCain has truly demonstrated his condescending personality here. I expected much more of him. As commander-in-chief, dealing with foreign policy, utmost respect for other people is mandatory. If McCain can't do that for Obama, I fear he would embarass our nation worldwide. His disrespect crossed the border of taste.

Obama has presented himself very much as a professional, and self-confident leader and clearly underlined his "change" stance in contrast to McCain who kept beating the dead horse with talking about his past experiences.

A decisive victory for Obama. McCain was condescending, stubborn, and short on substance, especially on economic issues. He clutched to "cut spending" as if it is the fountain of youth.

I agree with Sarah H.– McCain was going out of his way to patronize Obama. It was one of the most notable aspects of the whole debate. I think it may rub a lot of people the wrong way.

Writing for portugal, I'm portuguese.
First, i believe that both candidates are good and USA will be ok with any of them.
But in this debate i thing that McCain was better, revealing concise ideas on how to solve issues.
i think Obama failed on that – too vague and some of his ideas are difficult to understand (because good sense seams to tell you the opposite)
good debate overall

It does matter if McCain won't look his opponent in the eye when speaking to him. How will the Chinese Prime Minister feel if treated the same? Or the leaders of other countries when they meet with McCain? I think it matters very much. It's a sign of respect, of willingness to engage in dialogue. I think Obama handled it well, though. He was respectful, regardless of McCain's lies and posturing. He was very presidential; McCain acted like a playground bully.

I'm listening to the pundits on TV talk about the lasting impression that the U.S. people will take away from this debate and can't believe they are missing the most obvious thing.

It is NOT McCain saying "You just don't understand." It was NOT the fact that Obama said, "I agree with you" McCain."

It wad clearly the ABSENCE of Sarah Palin and her continued absence from media accessibility. I am hopeful that the American people will prove to be more observant. If not, we are in for a whole lot more bad times.

McCaine was strong in his ideas, no hesitations, Obama is having some serious gaps in foreign polices.
I used to see Obama as a cool guy, but thanks to this debate, I’ve discovered a cool McCaine.

Keep spinning Jonathan...and CNN. Who cares about eye contact? I care about words. McCain had them, Obama studdered and stammered. McCain wins.......

Hello from New Zealand. I agree with the poster who would have liked to reach into the tv and wiped that smirk off of McCain's face. What a condescending, arrogant jerk! He did also come off as very out-of-touch. He tries to tie EVERYTHING into his Vietnam experience. Way to utilize our veterans for your personal gain, John.

On a personal note, I DID move out of the country the first time Bush was elected. Suck on that, Baldwin!

"Is it that important that McCain didn t looked to Obama? Who cares. It is just a sign of predominance."

More like a sign of arrogance that has got American in a lot of hot water lately.

I think Obama won the debate. He was clear on foreign policy, economy and war in Irak. McCain iwas arrogant

As an International student coming from Europe, i must congratulate Senator Obama for having understood the common feeling outside the US. It is time for the US to "raise the glove" and come up with the world's expectations and move forward to a change from its arrogant, unilateral foreign policy to a leadership of reason and justice. I cannot see a better candidate than Obama. He remained cool throughout the debate although being attacked several times by his opponent. Moreover, he demonstrated in a clear manner, that no job should be left uncompleted. Since US got involved in a number of warfares, far away from its territory, it shall not abandon its attempt to establish peace and prosperity in Middle East. He is young, sophisticated, simple. Not a "hero", but who can deny the fact that the world had enough of heroes already?

I think Barack Obama did very well – McCain was patronising, disrespectful and dismissive. I hope Obama wins

Whatever is the rhetoric of it- and Obama is a glib and smooth speaker- they are just not in the same league- one has a solid record of accomplishments the other is an empty suit and a trained parrot without an idea of his own- how can you expect McCain not treating Obama with a degree of scorn?

McCain did well overall, but certainly didn't demonstrate superiority in his strongest area–foreign affairs. And he demonstrated a continuation of a belligerent foreign policy and a condescension toward Obama that contrasted with Obama's greater focus on diplomacy in foreign policy and respectful disagreement (and sometimes agreement) toward his opponent. Overall: a narrow victory for Obama.

from an international perspective Obama is the candidate in the debate who shows some promise of bringing about a more just world order, in which the US is an ethical leader of constructive change towards a world with greater security from chauvinistic militancy on the part of both the US and its opponents, and with it, a better long-term response to violent fundamentalism, which feeds on the perceived injustice of a corrupt defensive, stumbling 'great satan'.

I'm not an Obama fan and won't be voting for him. However, I thought he did OK...not nearly as badly as the pundits are saying. He held his own, and that is really all he had to do.

Obama clearly won, he was focussed, calm, and respectful to his opponent. McCain was none of these things, but was grumpy and seemed out of touch. McCain was incredibly patronising towards his opponent, perhaps was it beyond his bed time?

The reason for Obama to bring Bush up is to show that the ideals that republicans share simply does not work. It hasn't for the last 8 years atleast. Why would you want more of the same? The most likely candidate for change would be Obama!

Both Sen. Mc Cain and Sen Obama did well in the debate. Obama definitely seemed more composed and clear in his thought process. I noticed that McCain was using certain words very frequently e.g. Miss. Congeniality. This made it very evident that he did not have much to defend for the current state of the country from what it was 8 years before. I

McCain was disrespectful if can not see other's eye's while debating how you gonna face the world. McCain is a looser

I have noticed lately that Obama is reacting to what Mc Cain is saying or doing. And this is reflecting on the debate. Obama was always bringing up what had happened in the past. We all know what happened in the past. We need proactive ideas and Obama is being reactive. I think the debate winner was Mc Cain.

Agree with Sara H. I can add that the international image of the USA (and americans themselves) needs indeed some improvement and it is not McCain who can do it.

Obama carried the day. McCain showed himself to be haughty and locked in a Cold War mentality, with no vision for the future and no concern for how America is viewed abroad. And not being able to look Obama in the eye? Not good, must have a guilty conscience about all those lying ads his campaign has been airing.

I have seen, the obvies lack of experince of Barrack Husain Obama ? dont you sarah H?
Mccain even got to the point of cauling Obama Inexperiente, how humiliating is that?
do you what to vote for a guy, that is the "terrorist best friend"?
were where you on 9/11?
one more thing, you being a women, suport your future president Obama, to meet with a guy that in is country, the only right that women got, is the RIGHT TO GET A VEIL ON IS HEAD ???

McCain behaves like an angry old man who believes it is his God-given right to become President. Maybe it would have been better if he hadn't turned up at the debate at all. It remains to be seen if America will choose an out of touch geriatric over an intelligent and charismatic leader with the right kind of experience to fix the economy, end the war in Iraq and restore America's image in the world...go Obama! As for Sarah Palin, she makes George Bush look like a genius- very dangerous for America!

A backwards-looking condescending McSame showed that he is woefully incapable of expounding any solutions for the domestic and international problems that he helped to create.

With his smirks and demeaning attitude, it is obvious that McCain would make a horrible President.

We deserve better.

The first debate should be the last debate in this format. The Saddleback Forum raised the bar on debate format. At this point in the campaigns voters want to witness a different dimmension of the candidates. Whoever wins the other is someone they will have to work with. So, model for us how they find common ground with the other party. Let us see how well they listen, what things are they flexible about and what things are they less flexible about. Model for us the beginning of a McCain/Obama response to the current finannical crisis. Still use a moderator, but allow the candidates to have fuller discussion of say only 3 topics. The respective campaign themselves are the biggest obstacle to a productive debate. Hopefully, the following debates will be an improvement to this first debate.!

Obama won.

Not a terribly exciting debate, for those who've followed the campaign trail so far. It had it's moments though, mostly coming from Obama. McCain showed a strong tendency to go off rambling on a tangent until no one, McCain included, had any hope of remembering what the original question was..

Obama showed himself to be responsive to McCain, giving credit where due. McCain did not look at Obama, but just told us over and over again that "He (Obama) does not get it." Not clear ecactly Obama did not get. McCain was disrespectful. Probably not because he really is like that, more likely because that is what his advisors told him to do.

I thought Senator Obama was far more concise and direct than Senator McCain. Foreign policy and the choices made by this administration and espoused by Senator McCain, is the primary reason I am voting for Senator Obama. I've always believed that our foreign policy is tied inseparably to our economic policies, and the economic situation we find ourselves in today is a direct result of the poor choices and bad judgment made over the past 8 years. If McCain is elected, it will be 4 more years of bad judgment calls and further economic woes. And, incidentally, the surge was a tactical measure to secure a strategic objective. I think Americans understand that point, and I believe Senator Obama does not deny that the tactic worked.

McCain was definitely better.

Obama won! Hands down!! How many times do we have to hear about McCain's "old ink pen" . Is that the same pen he used to agree with Bush 95% of the time .

Well, spealing of contempt toward Obama, I d say this is the most natural emotion you re likely to feel in this case. With his style and record, Obama would make a great bartender or something. You just cant expect a person of John McCain status to treat a petty adventurist like Obama as his equal.

Actually a very good point from Jimi, now that I think about it.

Did Sen. McCain not look at Sen Obama because he was avoiding direct eye contact (nervous maybe?) or just being disrespectful / condescending? Certainly not predominance, the way I saw it

A draw. McCain came across as seeing old age and its accompanying experience as an asset. Obama didn't show being young and in tune with the present world was also as an asset. However, Obama showed that he was a better politician by recognising his opponents strength and using that to butress his points. McCain on the other hand was all about you are wrong, you don't get it, my way is right... the same thing that got US into Iraq.

I think Obama came across as the next President of the United States. Did McCain watch his own VP nominee on Katie Couric in regards to the Henry Kissinger comments? How out of touch is McCain?

Obama wow. this the debate shows that he got the judgement to lead this country to the right direction!!!!

I can only explain McCain’s lack of eye contact and his appalling body language towards Obama as totally lacking courage of his convictions, or, that he’s simply not interested in anyone else’s point of view.

McCain’s responses indicate that diplomacy and conciliatory measures are not part of his vocabulary; he would rather bulldoze his way at the barrel of a gun as part of his foreign policy STRATEGIES to ensuring people see things his way or the highway.... But hey, he believes in spending cuts and besides, America won’t be able to afford beating the c??? out of any sovereign state that does not see eye to eye with him, but.... Eye Contact is not his strong point !!

No matter what the ultimate outcome, Iraq will remain a mistake and McCain was at the helm when the decision was made to go to war. Heck ....with experience like that, who needs a bright, inspirational dude like Obama. Face it Obama, you’re waayyyy too smart for the average America voter (sorry to insult the millions of intellectual powerhouses in America).

If the war in Iraq and the current financial meltdown in Wall St. do not motivate the American voters to completely steer course and rid itself of this cancer, then AMERCIA, as an empire you’re toast!! I hope not!

barrack won the debate McCain kept going in the past and his body language can tell he is telling lies well American people is not stupid mcBush they dont need 4 more years of george bush lies

@ Jay

You care about words? I suspect that that's the only thing you'll get from a McCain presidency.

McCain lied with regards to Kissinger's standpoint!

How amusing that the Republicans won't let Sarah Palin speak...guess she's not Rudy Guiliani! Keep the Barbie doll in her case, that's what the good old boys want!

first if I got a girlfriend meeting i can't make an precondition to talk to her, and stop to go to war,,mc cain always talk like emotion, emotion cannot resolve war, cut tax is good but if put tax on sick people that cannot pay is bad and relationship with other people dont need to be or have an precondition..Precondition=Why????????mc is right but wrong to keep saying that obama is onexperies

Even though Obama clearly has a better grasp of all the different problems as a whole, the only thing I'm worried about is that he's not hitting back hard enough when McCain tries to pull him into a proverbial mud slinging match. This election is going to be decided by the "undecided" voters, and when McCain goes into his usual name calling and twisting/skewing of facts about his opponent, Obama NEEDS to drop the Professor-like demeanor for just one second and HIT HIM BACK HARD! Obama needs to remember this is not just about being eloquent, but about putting McCain BACK on the defensive instead of having to defend himself from the ridiculous half-truths McCain is trying to portray about Obama to the voters. Obama, for those with an actual brain in our country, you need not worry, you have our vote, it's the morons you need to convince out there to vote for you as well, and the only way you can do that is to dumb down the dialogue just a bit for them, and put McCain BACK in his PLACE when he tries to attack.

If you think we can win the war in Viet Nam by drilling for victory in Iraq, vote McCain. If you've thought about anything else in the last week, vote for Obama.

WE NEED THE VERY BEST, OBOMA IS NOT READY TO FACE THE TASK NOW.

Round 1 – Obama
Rounds 2 & 3 – McCain

I give McCain a slight edge. Obama is out of his league taking foriegn policy but neither side made any big mistake.

This debate didn't change many minds.

Id vote for Obama and I live in Canada

Mccain by a landslide.

Very intelligent and well informed. Obama sounded wooden with practiced lines with little comprehension.

I was expecting a much better Obama performance.

Barack didn't seem to have grip on most of the issues both internal and foreign policy. He kept giving a very general approach without being specific and to the point, ignoring or avoiding most of the questions. He was also very defensive not because he was respectful but because he was out gunned most of the time by John Mccain.

I thought both candidates acquitted themselves well – but considered that Obama won on domestic issues and the economy. It's fine to talk of how well we have done to stabilise Iraq's economy – but our own is on the brink! We need to be strong domestically and to sort our own economy out right now. It is only when we are strong that we can be a true and effective source of aid to others.

OBAMA WON. IS FORIEGN POLICY IS ABOUT EXPLORING ALL OPTIONS BUT DIPLOMACY FIRST OBAMA WON. If foreign policy is about going to war and isolating countries and creating more enemies and spreading hate then McCain won. Which ever way you view it. They both performed well but OBAMA WAS WELL ARTICULATED AND KNOWLEDGABLE THAN MCCAIN.

NICHOLAS FROM NIGERIA

Watching half way across the world, 12 time zones away, I thought Obama won hands down. McCain's condescending attitude is a real turn off. McCain attribute statements to Obama which are actually inaccurate.

I liked when Obama was passionate and McCain seemed better when he is calm. Sort of opposite of their natural tendencies. McCain was far more contencious and comes across as a hot-head. Obama is so much more diplomatic. Given where we are as a country, Obama seems more like the president we are looking for.

John McCain is 72 and Sarah Palin is not to bright! The choice is obvious.

We think McCain clearly won the debate! He is so much more experienced than Obama. And the fact that Obama always looks so cocky turns us off. The last person we need to run this country is him. If you think the last eight years have been bad, Obama will ruin us.

Absolutely the condescending smirk, and yes it does matter than McCain didn't/couldn't look a Obama, how can we expect McCain to engage with difficult foreign and financial leaders if he can't even talk to a "fellow" Senator?.
If only McCain had been pressed on why we went to Iraq, "was that a mistake John?" That's what Obama should have asked McCain everytime he banged on about the great surge. And stop letting McCain get away with saying Iraq is a victory -give me a break – or did I miss the "welome home all the troops parade"?

Definitely in Obama's court. He won fair and square; McCain looked like a relic from the 1980's.

Everyone was expecting Obama to perform a Knock-out, that didnt happen. And everyone was expecting that Obama out-perform with his speech hability, which didnt happen. In the other hand everyone was expecting a poor performance by McCain, and he was better that expected. I believe the big looser was Obama. Everyone expected him to do great, and did ok; Everyone was expecting McCain to do poor and did ok. So the big looser.... Obama

The debate can be summed up simply and succinctly – McCain, ‘you were wrong’…and continue to be.

OBAMA WON
McBUSH STILL LIVE IN THE 30 THE GREAT DEPRESSION AND HE DID NOT REALIZE THAT
HE IS AN OLDER BUSH
SAME WAY WILL REACT BUSH WHEN HE WLL ARRIVE AT THE 70
GOD PLEASE SAVE AMERICA

Taken on its own, I thought it was a tie. Both did very well (I'm an Obama supporter, BTW). Both were pretty vague on the economy; I'm not sure what McCain means by a "spending freeze" though. Does that mean the government shuts down, doesn't pay its employees, doesn't support victims of a natural disaster, etc.? Using such a dramatic term that's basically meaningless really irritated me. The fact is that neither is sure what they'd actually do, and it's going to depend on how the economic situation plays out.

McCain displayed an extensive knowledge of world politics, geography, and history and I found that impressive. But I'd also expect it, given his experience. The fact that Obama held his own in an area much newer to him was very reassuring. So, I think the debate by itself was a tie, but the fact that Obama was extremely knowledgeable and decisive (when it was appropriate for him to be, and much more willing to acknowledge agreement with McCain when he shared the same views) made it a clear win for Obama in terms of convincing people that he can be the leader, and a win in terms of the election.

It was impressive that even in this setting, facts where completely thrown out of the window.

I was looking for a little more than that, oh well.

Obama is an good moderated accordance with the future not the past some time experience talk but not every reviewed has been an appriopriate thing for the world an precondition can make war but both are good

What does winning mean? That the person you think should be next president did a good job. These debates are not designed to delve into issues in a way that would help you make up your mind about who might have better ideas - and frankly, neither party wants it that way.

Obama very clearly won the debate. He broke into pieces every single lies of John McCain. Barack understood the economy and articulated very clearly that he will bring a new dispensation of diplomacy rather than bullying and make life easier for the average American economically and give America a better world opinion.

McCain struggled in vain to detach himself from Bush and show that he can lead American in today's technological and complex economic age.

I did watch the debate here in Australia. Behaviourwise I found McCain being agressive towards Obama and very pushy, not giving Obama time to respond on issues in the 5 minute debates. Also Jim Lehrer did not give Obama time to respond and all Obama could say was "that's not true". Obama on the other hand was very respectful. Topicwise McCain won on points on foreign policy, Obama on the other hand seemed to have at least some plans when it comes to domestic policies and looks to me the better choice. That McCain is the Republican nominee says a lot to me about the state of that party. Someone who has been running for president over and over and never got a nomination and now at 72, wasn't there anybody else??

I thought Obama was much more coherent and structured in his responses throughout. McCain started off quite scatter-gun, shooting between topics and talking points within the one answer, hoping to make something stick. On the whole, Obama was able to parry and respond on most of the attacks, although I thought McCain did improve towards the end, scoring particular wins in the questions on the surge and Iran.

Overall, I thought the debate wouldn't really make many left or right voters to shift, but may reassure some independents previously wary of Obama's positions and capabilities.

McCain was more specific on how he's going to help the country, but Obama just says he has a plan. McCain Wins!!!

McCain's CONTEMPT towards Obama is the very reason why our country is no longer respected and revered in the world and this attitude is tired, old, and ineffective. McCain is ready....READY TO RETIRE!

The only question I have after this debate is....How can any American vote for a man who wants to bring our troops home so that he can increase entitlement programs, put more money into the failing educational system in this country, give non-productive American more money by tax breaks and credits to squander, and to socialize our health care system? Accountability is the answer.....Period! One more thing Mr. Obama...if you consider yourself an "American" than George W. Bush is YOUR PRESIDENT....not John McCain's and not just Republicans.....so....what are we today????

Hey guys, wasnt the economy to be the spooky issue for McCain? He did OK, by the way, you Obama fans should check deeply into his records.

obama win on economic war obama is an peace maker and is good for usa

At one point Mccain said the borders of Pakistan had not ever been patrolled and the Pakistanis needed time on the other hand American troops were just fired upon by Pakistanis for crossing the border in one spot. This is interesting because if the Pakistanis are so keen on our movements how come they cant take care of the terrorists that are running back and forth.

I was very pleased with McCain's thoughful answers. Living in Gulf region I know we need a experienced and strong leader. One must be confident to deal with the world we live in. John is a nice person but must be amazed to find such a lacking person running for President across the isle.

McCaine did better that I thought he would, however I thought Obamba showed the most control when he said "OK Jim can we move on" while McCaine bablbed on

My wife and I watched the debates and while neither of us heard anything "Earth shattering" that would make a clear case for either candidate's Presidential aspirations (we never thought we would), Senator Obama seemed more Presidential. While some of Senator McCain's answers seemed to be "practiced political speak", dancing near and around an answer to the question posed by the Moderator without actually directly answering his question (especially in the beginning of the debate), Senator Obama seemed to give direct and detailed answers to the questions. That said, overall both men did very well and history will record them both as giving a good showing for their respective parties.

Obama came across more Presidential, diplomatic, reasonable and believable.

send me opinion on den_dje@ why mc cain shall win if i can vote i vote for obama the peace maker

Why does this John Mccain have this smug smirk on his face through such an important debate, all the time he seemed to be imitating an ass or is that he got gas and is hoping not to pass it while on stage? He was rude at times and and seems to just not be in tune to details of what is good for all of us Americans. God Help Us if he becomes president, ........No wait if he becomes president I will personally drive 180 miles north and go to Canada and live there without another 4 years of this bull s**t copycat Bush adminastration. Obama 2008-2016 or BUST

I saw the debate, I cannot vote because I live in PR, But I saw Sen. McCain with the same old Politics, Sen. McCain has a lot more experience but still with the same old values I like being conservative because I was brought up that way but I also agree with change and Sen. Obama, projects a new view to how we should deal with all types of problem that make a lot of sense and will do good. Let see what happens as it said on our currency I God we Trust... It will be his will on Election Day.

McCain demonstrated a depth of experience that Obama just simply seemed to lack. I heard some Americans on the news saying they were going to vote for Obama because he was the champion of the middle class but skill with domestic policy is not going to solve your country's huge international mess. I love America, I lived there for a long time myself but in living there I learned that there are a lot of people who can't seem to realize that there is much larger world outside the United States and Barack Obama smacks of that sentiment too. I see people on here talking about how McCain was condescending but when I look at Obama all I see is presumptuousness, who talks to the masses in Berlin like a president before they've even been voted in?
I can't wait to see the VP debate, it's just a pity that both candidates didn't make better choices.

Both were tied, but McCain's appearance was something les presidential than Obama's.
Debates shouldn't have to decide over elections, it are momentums, but the fact is that Obama's recipes for America are the ones America needs a this moment. That is one reason why Obama got the upperhand. The other is that Obama is already at the winning hand. McCain should have nailed this. That is yhe other and it probably means game over for McCain.

His age was visibly an issue, when candidates stood next to each other. I'm sorry, 72 just isn't an age to run for president and it showed.

Conclusion : Obama is winning...

McCain undoubtedly won!!!
His arguements were very strong and he behaved as a real leader of this great country.

Roger
(Swiss)

Obama Wins!!!!!!!!! I have changed my vote McCain was very disrespectful.

I will have McCain on my side anytime over Obama!

BILL CLINTON SAID 8 YEARS AGO :"it is the economy stupid, the economy"
ENOUGH

Obama won! and he will win the other two debates.

Why does it matter whether McCain looked Obama or not? He wasnt the one AGREEING all the time. Obama is always saying "I agree.." Number ONE rule in DEBATES: NEVER AGREE WITH YOUR OPPONENT. He kept on saying "ummm..." Obama was caught offguard when asked about Russia. He seems to be very vague too on a lot of things. I can understand that Americans are looking for some HOPE in Obama but what they fail to see are these are FALSE HOPES. He is INEXPERIENCED. PERIOD. If Americans cant see that then this is another disaster to happen. OBAMA likes the spotlight eg like a celebrity. This is NO community WORK but WORK at the White House.

It was an interesting 1st debate. I found McCain has talked too much about his past experiences which is not relevant to what the US has to gone through now. He should have keep his past experiences as good memories and people do appreciate what he has done for the country. Thank you! Now, we need a new leader who can carry on the change of the US that is Barak Obama. Let him take America back on track of the current economy and the respect from the international allies. Change we believe and require!!!

I am an Australian with a keen interest in the US-Presidential election and politics in general. I must say that I agree with the analysis that McCain appears to communicate scorn and, even outright derision. I believe his did this through his body language and through his characterisations of the Obama position. But, why do I bother putting my two cents into to this analysis when I clearly cannot vote? Well, the retirement funds of many Australian's are at risk, if not already lost to this financial crisis. My own family is being threatened this catastrophic event.

For my point of view, Barack Obama delivered a clearer, more cogent plan for rebuilding the US economy and protecting taxpayers investment in the bailout. John McCain seemed more intent on arguing his own status as maverick and independent, intent on preaching fiscally conservative 'spending' moratoriums and basically freezing everything in the US economy into a War footing.

I hope America recognises the opportunities under an Obama Presidential Administration, who represents change in leadership that comes from a willing to engage the American people and other people & governments abroad. 'De-Regulator' McCain is to good at 'shooting form hip'....America, please ask yourself, do you need another reactionary in Whitehouse?

The US has an opportunity to have a leadership of healing and change under Obama. I admire his approach on non-adversarial and aggressive diplomacy. McCain is trying to be clever when he claims he is pro-climate change action or on alternative energy. And this whole suspension of campaign appears to me to be another cynical ploy by McCain to pull an elephant out of a hat..

The debate was boring, they were just rephrasing old arguments again.

Obama won and will win!!

My relatives are from Ecuador.... and it is clear that the Chavez regime tied with Communist is what is bringing Latin America down. We, as latinos, hope that Obama will help bring this country back up. At least Obama DID remember the latino community. McCain didn't.

I felt Obama took an edge on this one. McCain came out thinking he would be able to "outexcite" Obama while Obama just sticked to his script. And this was supposed to be McCain's chance at winning a debate!

McCain thinks his weird smirk would work for him but I cannot imagine anyone honestly connecting with it.

I am not an american citizen therefore I will not be voting but obviously USA elections should interest everyone as well as this debate.
I definetely thought Obama was a clear winner and two things I would like to point out:
1. McCain never looked at Obama and Obama did face him many times but McCain was far gone and did not catch the fact that when one speaks honestly one looks at his opponents eyes.
2. McCain seems to be a tender grandfather, and yes he was in the wrong Vietnam war, but definetelydoes not have what is need of a USA president, not to mention his most poor judgement in picking his VP.
Obama had plans clearly laid out but McCain is at the most a well known has been.

Obama was much better on economy; showed that he is on the same level as McCain on foreign affairs /national security – so he wins

McCain was saying over and over again that Obama doesn't understand this and doesn't understand that – but he had failed to make the case for this claim and the debate itself had not supported it, so it ended up as quite a squeaky dissonance.

From the moment both men walked on stage, Obama looked more comfortable. I was expecting better from McCain, given foreign affairs is supposed to be his strength. But he only proved that having travelled to an area does not necessarily mean that you have gained any actual knowledge (for example, regarding the intractable realities of the tribal areas in Pakistan. From his comments I would think that he had never been there).

Overall, in many of McCain's replies, he didn't always seem sure of what question he had been asked. When he did respond to Obama's points, he was usually, in both body language and tone of voice, patronising and scolding, even when he was agreeing with Obama. Obama by contrast seemed much more respectful of both the simularities and differences in opinion that they have.

All in all, Obama looked much more presidential, and was both much more concise and (gasp) more detailed in many of his answers. A lack of substance in his statements has been a problem for him in the past, but no such problem tonight.

Biden was also reasonably good in his short commentary after the debate. But where was Palin??? Unless Rudy Guliani has replaced her as the vice presidential candidate, his speaking instead of her plays very very badly.

Mr. Obama does not seem to have a clear understanding of why a sitting president of the USA should not have a meeting with another sitting head of state, i.e., Iran, without preconditions. Such discourse is carried out by lower ranking executives, i.e. secty of state, but under no circumstances would it be prudent for a sitting US president to hold talks with the head of a rogue state. That sends a message, however unintentional it might be, to that party and to the rest of the world, that he is consorting with the enemy.

McCain was articulate but his understanding of diplomacy points the USA toward the same terrible outcomes as did Bush. It is very important to try to see the world from many perspectives. McCain has a belligerent attitude toward many other countries and toward Obama.
The US has had enough of this. Obama was thoughtful, respectful, and intelligent. The US and the world are lucky to have a potential leader of that quality.

What seems to be missing from McCain is some sort of creativity. He's very much entrenched (yes with a smirk) in the past policies and came across as somewhat inflexible. Regarding the economy, Obama is much stronger. Obama came across as a very natural and powerful leader. He spoke to me as a middle class family who is worried about our economic security. If McCain is a Maverick (whatever that really means – a wild horse?) I get the feeling that McCain is more of a "Maverick" for people with a lot of money and security in many facets of their life (not that there is anything wrong with wealth). I used to like McCain, but given his rather transparent move to "fix the economic issue" and his choice for VP I can see that he is smugly heaving Maverick dung all over the place. Economically he seems out of real touch with the majority of us.

John McCain, is ready to be the President, and the Commander & Chief of our Armed Forces. Real World experience is paramount for the next President of the United States. I believe John McCain has a thorough understanding of the Foreign Policy Issues, and the current Economic Issues affecting our country.

Note: A 1st Term U.S. Senator, can be the "President" of the U.S., but not now. Need a man or woman, with Understanding & Experience to be in the Oval Office in these difficult times for our country.

I agreed with joao.

Today we saw fresh air versus the stale air in action.The USA has lost its credibility in the world and a new direction with fresh ideas and fresher policies will help repair the damage over time.
The economy of the USA is a shambles and needs oxygen and more; to avoid the dollar losing further it is necessary to prevent foreign companies from gobbling up the cream as we have seen over the last week.
The candidates can neither assert their views on the economy 42 days before the elections nor should they do so- if any rescue is proposed it should be a stop gap one, open to review by the new President in January 09 by the new team.
They should both stay off Washington at the present time (who has caused the delay in the bailout package that was nearly? finalised yesterday).
I think Obama shoould now get Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, John Kerry and the other Democratic luminaries out on the stump with extra vigour as health care, enviornment , have now taken a stage.

I think Obama was better. I prefer his position on Iran, which as an Israeli is what I care about the most.
Anything the Republicans did in the last eight years only seemed to strengthen Iran in the area and "embolden the enemy" as they say.

If foreign policy is supposed to be McCain strong point id hate to know what his weak points are.

The debate was interesting, we learned more on issues, policies, and what the future holds.
Senator Barack Obama excelled, He was calm, clear and precise, he projected his ideas and future vision for the country.
Senator Obama's policies on the Economy, Foreign policy, Global warming, Iraq, Energy dependancy are more progressive than what we learned from Senator Mccain.
Senator Mccain policies and ideas were more of "yesterdays politics" with no vision for the future, more of the same and no new ideas.
The economy is near collapse, millions of people have lost their homes, and Senator Mccain proposes tax cuts for the top 1% of the tax bracket, more money for big corporations, nothing for people who are struggling.
I believe Senator Obama is well qualified to lead the country, We need leadership, Intelligence, Diplomacy, and clear sound judgement not knee jerk reactions based on old idealogical predisposition.

I think both made their case, both are not saying much about the middle class and niether said anything about the "Lower Class" the working class. I wish they'd talk about what can be done and not what they think COULD be done.

John McCain seemed to point out his credentials every time he got stuck! "Oh and by the way, I'm experienced"

Obama was more concerned about giving people opinions and answers on the issues while McCain seized every opportunity to got to shoot accusations at Obama. SHOW US HOW GOOD YOU ARE, NOT HOW "BAD" HE IS!

I found the debate more civil than most of these comments by the Obamacrats. Obama would win a lot of votes if he came out against these people. But he won't do that as he tacitly encourages this behaviour. Watch out, people! This is the same tactics used by the Nazis. Do the reseaerch: study Obama's plans and Axelrod's tactics down the line and compare – and see where this leads. If you don't do the research we're all in trouble.

If McCain pulled his years of experience out of the hat again, I was going to scream...as it was, I would roll my eyes and say to myself "not again". Living in Australia, I have seen first hand the talking down that USA has had over the last eight years, and we certainly do not need more of the same story. I truly appreciated the respect that Obama paid to McCain, but for goodness sake, please pass the baton onto the next generation of political leaders, perhaps without as much experience, but certainly without the baggage!

I think Barack looks and talks like a leader, Senator McCain was trying to make Barack Obama look bad but had to go back to comments he said over 100 times. And if McCain carry's on the same as he is now then Barack should win it easily. To be honest i wish Barack Obama wins. And on Palin vs Biden there will not a competion Biden will win that easily.

I was surprised no newscaster or journalist picked up on a very significant and revealing comment John McCain made–something about 'you never REVEAL to the public what you are actually going to do'. It was said when he was critical of Barack Obama's comments on his strategies.Please put that on air again and let people see the REAL MCCAIN.
This remark more than any other he made shows the REAL McCain–someone who will entertain you with ancient storytelling, while doing all sorts of wrong things behind your back, without showing the public or telling the public...looks like MORE OF THE SAME...MCBUSH!!

McCain showed tremedous experience and patience while trying to clarify the important issues facing all Americans during this upcoming election. I don't think either man WON....because this was not a popularlity contest...

I agree McCain came across as condescending and ill tempered. But I think the talking down posture was set up to make him look more knowledgeable. I think if you are a supporter of mccain it'll make you feel more empowered, but it'll rub the others the wrong way. I can't imagine how would mccain act on the international stage where not everyone will bow to him and agree with everything he says.

On the issues, McCain demonstrates the the Karl Rovian campaign strategy, keep repeating simple short sentences over and over and doesn't matter if you have zero content.

Yes Mcain's body language shows that he is thinking about Obama's speech and he is very tesed. I would think that Obama will win.

Though both candidates were a bit too vague for my personal taste, I feel this debate was a clear win for Barack Obama. Despite his supposed foreign policy experience, McCain was disorganized and off-message on more than one occasion. Barack Obama also managed to link the problems with the economy to substantive foreign policy ideas, making important points about how both issues are closely intertwined. The fact that McCain had to revert to telling war stories and dropping names (some of which he couldn't even pronounce) shows that he is struggling and will try virtually anything in order to win.

Obama won big time!!!

It was a very pleasant debate. Obama won it handily because he talked to the middle class on economy and healthcare.
McCain was too much condescendant, stuborn and erratic.

Obama President

Obama won this debate hands down. He was calm, professional and presidential. He laid out smart plans on how he would address the economic crisis and handle foreign policy. Don't people (i.e. Republicans) understand that the only way to vanquish our enemies is by engaging them and having open dialogue? If they understand where we're coming from and we understand where they're coming from we can strive to find common ground. It is arrogant to believe that all countries should agree and bow down to our sense of what is right or wrong. Who gave us that moral ground? How much more ethnocentric could we possibly be? This has been the failing of the Republican philosophy and George Bush and McCain's failed policies over the last 8 years.

McCain was condescending, disrespectful and came across as a grumpy grouchy smirking old man. How dare he not even bother to look at Obama even once during the entire debate? If he cannot afford basic/common courtesy to his fellow American how will he do that with world leaders? I disagree with the people on this blog who say that eye contact is not a big deal. I would like to see them holding conversations with others without having any eye contact given to them. They would probably reach over and smack the person in the side of the head.

the talk of spin is pathetic to say the least. i would like to check the backgrounds of those who say mcSAme did well

Barack Obama is clearly the future statesman that America desperately needs, in order to have any chance of restoring respect with their own allies like Australia. Obama proved during the TV Debate that he does have the courage to look his opponent directly in the eyes (as a sign of mutual respect) whilst articulating his own views on contentious and evolving global issues. In contrast, John McCain failed to respectfully look at Barack Obama and this only further demonstrates the ongoing flawed policies of Whitehouse to dismiss the opinions of people and countries that do not agree with their limited view of the World. In my humble opinion, the significant global strengths of Barack Obama is that he is intelligent, has a fresh pair of eyes and he has no experience conforming to the corrupted values of Whitehouse. There may be hope for America yet!
Peter Osborne
Australia

McCain was very aggresive instead of being firm on his foreign policies.He had to, considering the fact that that his only forte.he was rude, condescending and kept interrupting Obama ,who being the the gentleman he his let him.i agree with Tamara that he acted like a bully and i hope viewers, and more importantly voters have seen this. A piece of advice for Senator McCain;namedropping is NOT cool!!

Obama won this battle hands down. At first I was afraid he would lose cause he's first a lawyer and tends to answer in a long manner. But tonight he was very concised and consistent. Mccain scored a few jabs but not enough to re-up the downfall of his campaign. In the next debate I hope Obama can be less cordial and polite. And above all, contrast himself more than saying "John is right".

Obama 08

No way do we want Obama as our next president! It will be Change! That none of Us, want... It maybe the same oh! However, I know, I and my family and our county will be so much better off and remain safer... With McCain! Than the change Obama claims to bring! Change! How exactly is he going to do that? He has no idea! Nor You or I!!! No one does! Don't vote for just change! know what the Change is going to bring upon us all! The unknown change from an unexperienced, Obama.... Its change none of Us Want!!!!

IT IS SAD TO THINK THAT WAR AND ISOLATION WILL SOLVE THE ISSUES OF POVERTY, HEALTH OF FELLOW HUMANS OR THE CARING OF THE PLANET.....SAD SAD SAD....

THE ISSUES SHOULD FOCUS ON COMPASSION.

Obama won. He successfully linked Mcain to Bush. Mcain is stuck in the past. Obama also scored on the economy. Douglas from KENYA.

Putting my personal judgement and that of other atchers of the debate together, Obama had a lead. The best for America for those of outside of America is for someone who would do things totally different from what has been going on in the last eight years. If the feelings of the rest of the world bothers Americans, then Obama is it. Not a scornful, hate-spitting and bully like Mcain. The world is in dire need of a brand new America from a brand new president. Mcain in that debate looks 72 year-old. Too old for the vigor needed to fix the world.

I think Obama scored the most votes. He repeatedly reminded that 8yrs of Republican Government on Economic and Foreign Policy was a total failure, destruction to US nation, and less rewarding to most countries and allies. And Obama repeatedly say's McCain is RIGHT! Right! All his patriotic tales and stories are all right!

We couldn't survive more of the GOP. McCain is no "maverick", i could make up some stupid nickname to call myself whatever i want. The facts remain, he voted with his buddy Bush 90% of the time. How could we survive even another year of this insanity? McCain also wants to privatize social security, it sure would be safe with our economy like this, huh? real smart. We are lucky we didn't throw it all away when Bush suggested such craziness. He knows nothing about economics, or foreign policy. He would only as president further alienate us from the rest of the world, pad the pockets of the richest people, and continue us on the same course Bush and his lying cronies have for almost a decade. I have faith that Americans will be intelligent enough to not allow this to continue! Yes! Let's make our country great again!

I believe that this debate showed how strong and experienced Sen. Mccain is to lead the United States of America. Clearly, looking at the body language, even Sen. Obama was in awe hearing how decisive, precise and knowledgeable Sen. Mccain is.

During this time of uncertainty, I believe that the greatest mistake that the United States can do is to put an inexperienced person to lead their country. Sen. Obama may be an eloquent speaker; even I was impressed by how good he is in terms of standing up against a very experienced person like Sen. Mccain. However, the question that every American should answer is this, will they trust Sen. Obama to lead the most influential and powerful country in the world?

I am happy that this debate has made it clear to voters their only choice in this presidential campaign.

Laurie from the Philippines

Americans already passed Bush's Administration and everybody in america and arround the world consider Bush's administration as a big lose to America and Americans. so as i have been watchin CNN so far i could find out that McCain is following Bush's path , wich i think the same history is going to be repeated in America.
I would like to add this , its better not to vote for MacCain.
America needs a better person comparing McCain to be the president ..

Both candidates did well, but Obama seemed more knowledgeable on economic issues. He was also well informed when it came to foreign policies. A government with experience that lacks a human face is of no good to its people.

Mccain comes across as fake, and will say anything just to win. He really doesnt seem to care about people and will step on anyone to get to reach where he wants. Everything is politics for him. Did he truly stop campaigning? We need to think about this but he said it. He seems very condesending and showed no regard for his oppononent. Obama seems very personable; a people's man. Someone who genuinely cares for his fellow human being whether poor or rich. Unlike Mccain who comes across as snobby.

Mccain is 72 years old and I bet at Obama's age he did not have that much experience. Obama will have better experience than Mccain at 72. For Obama at this age to hold his ground with John Mccain; it speaks volume about his natural talent and experience. Some leaders are trained and some are born. OBAMA WAS BORN TO LEAD; MCCAIN WAS TRAINED TO LEAD. Sometimes there is a difference; and you cant make a good leader if you look down on otheres. Leaders are meant to serve.

I stayed up to watch this and it was worth the wait. The debating skills on display admirable. But having said that i feel that there must have been too much rehearsal, hence it tended to sound like two speeches. I expected more of a conversation hence I agree that eye contact and acknowledgement of the other man or engaging his as Obama did was important. McCain showed passion, like Bush has passion i suppose, and tended to be patronising with repeated use of words like naivety , Obama was unrattled, reasoned , looked the statesman a man who can engage the world while still showing strength required of an American would be president.

I agree with Obana when he said: "I don't think any of us can say that our standing in the world now, the way children around the world look at the United States, is the same." I am from Brazil and i can see evidences of this statement. The people in here and around the world dislike the United States policy regarding diplomacy and ambiental questions. We want that AMERICA back.

What the US needs now is a man of great character, foresight and courage that will provide a global balance. US needs to build bocks of peace across the globe, US needs to develop economies and win the war on terrorists through constructive and strategic alliances and engagements with global partners. I think Obama offered more promise in foreign policy diplomacy. What US needs now is a visionary who will command the respect and trust of the rest of the world on global spectrum. Mcain's winner takes it all approach shows him as a leader who may open more war frontiers – which means more blood and woes for the whole world. What we expected to hear on foreign policy was the drive for new alliances across the glode. At this time, US should think about opening up new frontiers that will see her having more friends across the globe and reduce the number of traditional enemies during the cold war days.

It's funny that people throw what tax cuts they are going to vote for. Wake up people, 700billion, didn't you hear Obama say he knows that the things he wanted to do may not make it to budget? Trying to be elected on promises that you can't come through on is dangerous. What do you know you are getting? You must study the the back ground on your candidates. What have they voted for and for what. Don't stop short of just having the media-networks shove the ideas in you minds. Go see on Youtube: Burning Down The House: What Caused Our Economic Crisis. Someone, mention Palin is not ready for the White House? Well seems she and Biden have more experience than Obama, tonight I feel Obama showed his youth in many ways, short of stomping his feet at times, he too tried to interupt McCain while McCain was speaking etc. etc. McCain is a POW war veteran who was beaten and both arms injured badly, has anyone thought this may have prevented him from turning towards Obama to look at him, Obama also did not look at McCain at other points. Tonight despite of biases of network Media. McCain clearly won this debate, he showed his experience on many levels, only Obama sited his campaign rhetoric over and over. Finally as in any case they can talk tax cuts until they are blue in the face, which are meaningless if we the voter only have a verbal promise. GO McCain/Palin

McCain: Let's go to war and eventually talk after,
Obama: Talk before, put some economy pressures, and go to war at last

That's the real difference between the two candidates.

Obama 08 for sure...

From Rio de Janeiro.
I think Senator Obama was more convincing, respectful and steady than Sen.McCain. Obama has showed to be very intelligent and has pointed out to future. McCain came back to past. Obama was right about Iraq War – a Republican unnecessary War that has resulted in hundred thousands deaths and has brought anthipaty all over the world for America and Americans.

Obama revealed an enlightened confidence and conscience, and a down-to-earth contact with the lives of most Americans. John McCain rarely answered any question directly. Instead he wandered off into some old story about himself and what he had done...it is so boring and unconvincing...like having to hear your old grandfather's repetitive stories.

Obama breathes a breath of fresh air into this country and the world. With Obama there is reason to hope that the people in this country can get themselves out of the dark hole George Bush (supported by John McCain) has gotten us into. Barrack Obama succeeds at all levels.

I also observed McCain's nonverbal behavior towards Obama during the whole duration of the debate. Obama seemed more interested in what McCain had to say, looking at him and tuning in. McCain on the other hand, spent time looking down whenever Obama talked. Now, McCain's behavior seemed to exude disinterest over Obama's views, which he could also exhibit in talks with other world leaders over matters of national security. Such disinterest can be seen negatively and might be misconstrued as insincerity. the subtle hints of McCain's behavior showed a lot about what kind of guy he is - you cannot talk about world peace and finding real solutions if you're not a good and respectful listener or not open to hearing the other side

Obama – no doubt.

McCain is a good guy but....

It is clear our next president is Barack Obama. Most Americans want it and so does the world.

If America needs a President who depends not on a knee-jerk or gut reaction on important issues then we know who that Presdent is. Somene should ask me why one of the candidates is up up up in the polls.

Obama is the next President of the USA.

It was yesterday's man versus a vision for the future, wealth versus ordinary, war -monger versus reasoned thinking, reactionary versus visionary.
Obama won the debate and hopefully will win the election so that my children when travelling worldwide could once again proudly say that they are Americans. I wore a Canadian flag on my jacket to be accepted all over Europe.

Barack did very well in his weak subject and was not blown away by the experienced McCain. This means that McCain is in trouble because it can only get better for Barack from here on in.
McCain knows his subject..and Barack is an excellent quick study...McCain unfortunately came off as condescending...that did not play well through the TV.

I cant wait until Biden/Palin hook up next week...if she is allowed to speak of course.

mtrought

I would like to check the backgrounds of all those that support Obama!!! My God Help Us ALL! If his our next president!! Unfortuniately! As much as I hate to admit. He is likely to be our next president because of the over welming, uneducated american people that support him. Like yourself! I don't mean that in a derogitory way... Its simply the truth!!!
Make an educated decision!

OK first things first. Mccain and Obama did not present their best hands.. both were mediocre to say the least. However did anyone notice how the meditator let Mccain speak after his time was up? Time and time again, Mccain would ramble on some non-sequitur that was completely irrelevant. the mediator should have cut him off. Mccain was given dramatically more time to speak.. and yet, still did not come out ahead.. sign of some one spinning his wheels.. you tell me.

then there was Mccains disrespectful tone, plus the fact he never once actually face Obama... is this the man we want in the White House? A man who is afraid to face world leaders is this what we.

It truly is more of the same. John McCain lies, spins, prevaricates and is testy to boot. He is boldfaced shameless liar who will say what he thinks it takes to get elected. We dont need more of this. Thank the stars for fact check.

I listened to the first hour on the radio, and what I heard from Sen. McCain was the "angry old man" thing he seems to be so good at. When I switched to TV, I also saw an angry old man indignant at having to debate this young guy at all. Now, it's true that Sen. McCain can name both the president and prime minister of Ukraine. So can I. Does that mean I won the debate?

Well, I think it's time to bring back to live, and tonight, we have all seen that change will certainly come from a new leadership which Obama offers. therefore He won this one.

McCain was presidential and cool, but Obama was interruptive and rowdy. McCain won my respect and the debate.

Obama's smirk was unmistakable. That an his annoyance, stifled anger, attitude of 'I am the smartest guy here' came thru loud and clear.

One question: Both the candidates had not gone deep in the economic question. They did not want to lose votes or them don`t have clearly a solution for the problem?

It was a beautiful site to behold. I was rather impressed with Obama. No forcast gave him an iota of doubt about winning but he didn't make a fool of himself. That was lovely.

obama is more presidential,composed and knows the current predicaments of americans and the world.He is respectful and willing to give credit if he feels you are right.on the other hand hand,mccain is resentful,bad tempered fella who thinks he is a monopoly of wisdom .mccain can not be a listening president.he is too engrossed in his old ,failed and outdated experience.always recounting his past experiences for lack of anything new to offer.OVERALL obama=90%,Mccain=10%.
OBAMA WON.

CLEARLY, MacCain was an old man arrogantly trying to silence a more knowledgeable younger, more intelligent man. Obama won!

For debating skills....Obama wasn't scoring and probably could have done better. On the topics....I'd have to rate McCain slightly ahead. The blunt truth is that the debates rarely change people's minds unless you really screw up things. So I think the score is pretty much 50-50 still.

It's amazing how much Mccain continues to base his credibility only in his POW experience. Comme on John look at the future not the past. the USA needs a new vision either domestically or internationally and that's OBAMA is speaking out

Jean-Michel (France)

I think Obama did a far better job.

McCain has showed us that he is pretty much stuck with the old ways of thinking.

And for people outside of US, Obama seems to be easier to approach... Not like those, "If you don't follow exactly what I say, I won't talk to you.." high school bully attitude.

Obama clearly stole the night!!! BIG TIME. This should have ben MacCain's night to win since he was debating on his turf, familiar issues. The Obama campaign prempted that Mc Cain would be strong on foreign policy and national security because of his experience. Sorry they were dead wrong. Senator Obama held his own and crossed the line at the finish!!! Ma Cain was supposed to win this handsomely. No such luck. And to those of you who said what about Mccain looking Senator Obama in the eye? It says that there is a HUGH amount of INSECURITY on McCain's part, not to mention condecending, disrespectful and rude!!!. John Mc Cain was stuck in the past with all this POW stuff and Regan BORING!!!!. Have heard it one too many times and honestly its begining to sound like the "CD" is scratched.

Well with such a disaster tonight and Sarah Palin's disaster with Katie Couric..... please cancell the ticket......tear it and throw it away America. You will be glad that you did. HONESTLY

I believe Obama held his own ad showed that he is knowledgable about his not so strong subject, Foreign Policy.

Mccain, wonderful man though he is, came across as everything I do not want to see in the White House for the next 4 years. My biggest beef with him however didn't feature in this debate. Knowing his own age and the liklihood of him possibly not completing the 4/8 years, to be so cynical as to almost ensure that a Sarah palin would run our country should he get elected, has lost him my vote.

The Presidential Debate this evening was a definitive victory for John McCain. McCain exhibited a command of the subject matter and his answers and rebuttals were substantive. While Obama was more stoic and seem to be regurgitating prepared statements. McCain appeared Presidential. Obama confirmed that Hillary and Joe who emphasized his lack of experience were right. He lacks the judgment and experience to lead the country in these perilous economic and terror threat times. I thought that the number of times that Obana used the phrase “John is right” was enlightening. In addition, Obama’s mumbling and stammering when Sen. McCain was talking was rude and immature. McCain showed his poise, his abundant knowledge, his experience, and his willingness and history of bipartisanship. It was not even close!

Jane,
Florida

Obama is for sure the next president. It will be a new disaster not only for USA, but for the hole world, if Mccain runs with the white house.
Please all great Americans – look what Bush has done to you and the world. It must be crytal clear that Mccain is a "NO go". It's time for a change – a BIG change – NOW.

McCain looked like a great American Senator whereas Obama was more presidential–word choice, mannerism, respect towards his adversary, willing to give credit where is due, etc.

we expected a steamrolling of Obama by a man who has all along claimed foreign policy to be his forte, but it wasnt there there. The new America is not about the experiences of the past,like Mc'Cain's, but about the visions and the concepts of the future,epitomisesd by Obama. Obama won this on strategy,not tactics.

Obama keeps changing the topic when answering the question. Mccain answers straight to the point. Obama is a better speaker and more aggressive. Mccain has more substance in his answers and makes more sense. Obama did a nice job of hiding his inexperience and naivete which was highlighted several times.

I was not predisposed to be against McCain until recently. The debate has shown a side of him which most have grown weary of-the arrogance and pugnaciousness, the bravado and flag waving. That used to be President Bush's act. Please let us have our flag back. And the country too.

The world needs United States with Obama's character in handling the country. We need a world superpower whose leader has integrity domestically and abroad. No doubt Obama is the next President of the USA.

I thought Obama won hands down.
What I've found most interesting over the whole course of the Elction season Primaries included, is how truly lazy the American public is when it comes to our government. 20 out of the last 28 Years we've had a Republican President and 14 out of the last 16 Years, the Republicans have controlled the Congress, even now people think the Democrats control the Senate, but it's 49 – 49 with 2 Independents that lean toward the DEMS, but no where close enough to overturn a Presidential Veto! Plus People talk about Experience as an Issue, and I have to say President Lincoln had less than Obama and Our Founding Fathers had less than Obama and between them we Formed a Nation and survived a Civil War, It was their Vision and Inspirational Leadership that did it, as Most Good Presidents do!

I was surprised that neither Obama nor McCain showed a sense of urgency nor spoke of the impending financial apocalypse that president Bush warned about, in his effort to justify the bailout. Well, after all, Harry Reid did kick the presidential candidates out of Washington today. McCain showed that he can handle two issues at the same time. He never suspended his campaign, just moved it to Washington, and the effectiveness of his intervention is yet to be seen. This was the only debate in which the theme favored McCain and in my opinion, he failed to gain a clear advantage.

It is obvious that Barack is willing to listen whereas John McCain wants only one thing: make his point. This is where the USA lost the world: why not sit and talk with Ahmedinejad ? It shows the world you are willing to listen. It would have surely helped to get a bigger alliance behind America when it attacked Iraq! Now many could say they did not give Saddam a fair chance. Same with many instances for 8 long years. Listening is a sign of strength, not weakness. Having an opinion and pointing the gun, or worse: shooting, will only aggravate the situation. This goes for Iran as well. And how does McCain think he can fund another war? America is on its knees and in a way, China has financed it. And now they have to pay it back. Which threatens educational programs for the new generation. Well: in Asia so much of emphasis is being put on education that America might start to see the heels of the Indians, Chinese and others sooner rather than later in economics and ....... it will lose the economic war, but may have won the Iraq war. Or will it? That in itself may be a dream: when thye finally left, will Iran, the Shiites, Kurds, and Sunnis, live in peace? Not much of a chance John, and you know it: America shouldn't have gone in in the first place:
1. There were no weapons of mass destruction
2. Democracy in Arab countries will lead to regimes like that in Iran coming to power (it would have happened in Algeria if the present regime hadn't put the fundamentalists down)
3. Iran would have been kept in its place by Saddam.
Now America is trying the impossible. And Al-Qaida & the Taliban are having a daily run at them in Afghanistan. And Bin Laden? Just living among his brothers-believers in the mountains. But hey: you promised to get him? Forgot? Maybe you got too old, pal.

A good debate. Obama won, but only because McCain blew it in his rambling and negative closing statement. Two minutes before the end, I would still have given a slight advantage to McCain, even if I disagree with him on many points.

McCain might have more experience in politics that doesn't mean he has to show dis-respect for another person like he displayed towards Obama. A debate is between 2 or more people and he never adressed his debate partner once.

As far as a debate I feel he was not in the same league as Obama.
He only repeats everything he has said before and thinks Obama doesn't understand anything. That only showed his lack of intelligence. On most questions I did not hear a proper answer.

I am all for people working past their retirement age but McCain should go home now and enjoy his family before time is up.

Furthermore I find most "comments" of the political commentators very biased towards the party they favour. I belief that none of the comments are made by objective people.

McCain was concise and specific. He outscored Obama on most of the questions. He demonstrated his depth of experience and breadth of knowledge.

Look we are we are confronted by a meltdown in the economy and domestically are due to corruption and lobbyist loyalties not just in Wall Street, but in Washington. McCain is strong enough to resist. Obama is to inexperienced. He will be like Bush ... a puppet to the next Rumsfeld and Cheney.

Obama needs to take ownership of that and stop blaming Bush for all of it.
McCain clearly showed his record, but Obama kept blaming Bush.
Obama struggles to be specific with out a teleprompter and a professional speech writer because he has little experience to draw on.

In regards to McCain refusing to look Senator Obama in the eye, it was either an effort to look presidential or the mind set of not facing an adversary. In the first scenario it is presumptuous in the second it is like a child holding a tantrum by turning around and holding their breath to force an adult to change their position – exactly how Republicans treat 'diplomacy.' No wonder the world is in such a mess.

Obama won the debate and he was clear about all the topics and his priorities. McCain looks like another bush and he is not clear on any of the questions.

Barack Obama won the debate. He was focused on the
issues & kept his composure when John McCain kept
repeating he did not understand. Barack Obama was more
in touch with the issues of mainstreet America. John McCain
is not in touch with the pressing issues of this country. If elected
John McCain would be the next worst disaster for this country. John McCain was rude, spoke longer than the allowed time & was very disrespectful to Barack Obama. Barack was congenial & showed true respect for John McCain. Barack held his own in this debate.
He showed his expertise on foreign policy & energy. He also
kept stressing his agenda if elected President.

Of course OBAMA won.

As psychology says,
- teenager thinks and talks more about the future.
- People in their 30s and 40s, thinks and talks about their current time
- People more then 50, think and talks about the past.

McCain certainly fits in last group. We all have seen in the debate. While obama is pratical. He has correctly indicated america's current image in the world. And to make more friends...CHANGE is needed, which OBAMA can only bring..

But i doubt, USA is a modern country but still racist in nature. May give the edge to Mccain on pollig day.

McCain has proved clearly in this debate that his approach is exactly that of Bush at its worse: Scare others to love us.
Obama's is based on mutual respect.

I thought Obama won, although admittedly I'm biased. I was dismayed by how often Obama would answer a question or make a statement about McCain's record, and all McCain would come back with was a personal attack. And it is important that he couldn't even bring himself to look at Obama. It goes to his personality. Obama was classy, McCain was scary. But at least he only played the POW card once...

McCain spent more time attacking Obama by spinning the truth and generalizing about government spending and the war in Iraq than he did actually addressing the issues presented. Obama gave a very well rounded, carefully thought-out, comprehensive answers to the questions and issues. Obama presented himself as someone who is capable of handling very complex issues whereas McCain presented himself as someone who believes voters will vote for him so long as he denigrates his opponent and talks about generalities like God, Country, & apple pie without actually giving specifics.

Obama wins by unanimous decision – TKO.

I agree with Sarah H's comment, I too found McCain’s condescending behavior distasteful, at times and I found he sounded like a reply of his ads – nothing new was learnt tonight from him. Barack Obama, on the other hand, was very respectful of his opponent and dealt with the issues in a clear manner.Attempting to keep the debate format engaging. Both men handled themselves well generally and I did not see any major slip ups.

A clear win to Obama in Substance & Style. But does the US foreign policy consist only of Iraq, Iran Afghanistan and Pakistan. Is it restricted only to perceived threats. Seems a very narrow, negative, and defensive view. In fact it sounds more like a US Defense policy debate.

I was a little put off by McCain's condescending attitude, like he was "lecturing" Obama, when clearly Obama had the knowledge and information to match McCain. Then when McCain tried the "Senator Obama is a little naive" trick, that REALLY turned me against him. The secret to negotiations and debates is a mutual respect for the opponents. It's clear that the "McCain temper" we've heard about is bubbling just below the surface. McCain could lose it at a key time and then we would we be???

How can anyone even contemplate supporting John Mccain. He is complicit in the deaths of 100 000's of thousands of iraqi's and the systematic destruction of that country. No one in America seems to focus on this, they only focus on the cost to their country when the relaity is that they have been the one's that destroyed and dessimated iraq.

John Mcain is a war criminal he should not be aupported at all

elena,
have you ever heard of "credit default swaps"? probably not...this is the reason our economy is flailing and our banks are failing. this travesty was allowed by the republica party and "the less regulations of our economy the better" mc cain. are you aware that mc cain was one of the "keating five" – that he was in there fighting for one of the biggest crooks of our time that wa responsible for the savings and loan scandal that destroyed the lives of people because the thrift industry was deregulated? that was just a precursor to this crisis and mccain never changed his stance of deregulation until everything hit the fan a few weeks ago...and with this terrible crisis looming – mccain admitted on tv that he hadn't even read the bailout document last tuesday! stick to something that you might know about, because it sure isn't the economy, our history.

cheryl m.

McCain's condascending attitude was noticeable. He is a desperate man who is trying everything – starting with dishonest and deceitful ads, then the stunt of suspending the campaign, and now the patronizing attitude. How can anyone imagine this cranky old man in the white house?

mccain showed true statesmanship firm, decisive and straight to the point obama rather has no definitive answers to major issues his always on the fishing expedition mode mind set

Some people are commenting on McCain's makeup. To be seen properly on TV, makeup IS required, so the use of it is not a valid issue.

But McCain's face really DID look like an unmade bed.

Still, this isn't like the times of yore, where the opposing candidate's appearance (via his makeup) could be sabotaged. By today's standards, each candidate would only use his OWN makeup consultant. So why did they do such a rotten job with McCain?

He not only looked old, he looked washed out. I thought perhaps it was just me – because McCain's statements were as empty of intellectual content as he could make them. They seemed washed out, so I got the impression that HE looked that way, too. Guess not.

But washed out isn't what I want for McCain. I tend to prefer washed UP.

I thought both candidates made some good points, but McCain was clever enough to shift the discussion away from specifics about his tax plans. I would be worried if McCain became the next President, since it's clear he want's to fight, and fight to win at what ever cost. Unfortunately he has forgotten the US has very little money, so now is the time to TALK to your enemies.

Obama 100%. He also seemed like he was having fun a little listening to McCain clearly try to muddle through it all. Obama: "I have a bracelet too." Classic. McCain – you are the worst thing I can imagine for this country. You go Mr. Obama. Sit down with everyone in the world – and I don't mind if it actually is a simple invite for a cup of tea... do it right.

On the economy, McCain came off as out-of-touch with reality. His plan to solve it with tax breaks to corporations went over like a lead balloon. I must say, I was disappointed in his performance. Honestly, regardless of the issues... McCain's temperament just didn't appear to be up to par during the debate today. He looked tired and constantly right on the verge of bursting into rage. On the other hand, Obama looked full of energy, with a diplomatic demeanor. Obama was clearly in his element. When Obama talked about how America has lost its standing in the world due to the failures of the Republican administration, that really seemed to be the winning moment of the entire debate. McCain has got to do better with his temper next time if he has any hope of gaining any ground.

We know the charismatic side of Obama, in this debate we be able to see the strong side of Obama.

the worda spirit and humanism are never mention in these debates.
it seems usa is only focus on foreign divide and rule, when in domestic situation is get bad to worst.
if senator Mac cain had past experience!
senator Obama express hopes for America, for Americans.
the next President of United States will have good health, ability
to rebuild a new deal after the old bretton woods agreement.
8 years of Republicans leading had shown limit of unwining any war.
soldiers life are lost and damages in innocent civils lifes lost for ever.
this is not fair. live and let live...
I support first americans, and hopefully Obama will fulfill this new era
for peace, health, wealth, life style, hopes and dreams.
this comment is sent from Paris France.

It was a very keenly contested debate, i believe this debate clearly seperates the policies of both candidates, but on the foriegn policies issues Obama demostrated that he is intouch with this present dispensation, i mean America has to change its approach of creating more enemies, i believe the American leadership will be restored in the world with a leader that can reachout over the board th making cotructive dialogue, Barak Obama is cool calm and collective, this is the wisdom America needs in this present time. Obama won this debate

mccaine and palin sound worse than bush and dick!! if america votes for these people , america is doomed -will take america to a thirld world country status!!!

Mr. McCain´s posture showed experience and wisdom.
Mr. Obama posture was of the salvation hero.
None offered solutions.
Does not matter who wins it, USA will loose.

The debate was not very exciting.
As this was not a speech, I have to say Obama was not
all that charismatic as he can be.
But still far more authentic and being his own self than his
opponent.

i think someone should tell john mccain that ronald reagan met with gorbachev during the cold war without pre conditions. Meeting with people that hate you is a good thing, thats how you get them to like you and do what you want them to do....if mccain wins im leaving the country.

If you have paid attention to recent history it is fairly clear that Obama's clear headed analysis of the current world situation is clearly head and shoulders above John McCain's. While McCain clearly has had the opportunity through his long career in the senate to take junkets at the taxpayers' expense all over the world, he apparently hasn't learned much except how to shake hands and collect business cards. I found McCain's inability or unwillingness to engage in any eye contact telling. Its hard to tell mistruths not only about your own voting record, but your opponent's while looking your opponent straight in the eye. As a long student of human nature, I'd have to say that McCain, including his recent oscillations regarding the bail out plan, is the most flip-flopping fish in this campaign.

obama won!

Eight years of Bush rule and USA is no more the leader of nations. Obama is trying to steer away from confrontaionist policies. I am sure if US takes a step forward even towards Iran, there will be momentum for peace. People like Ahmednejad will be thrown out.
Lead on Obama.

Obama is smart than Mc Cain. Indonesia people needs Obama can be a next president of US.

Chris, Jakarta Indonesia

Obama is what your country needs, as it will trickle to Australia. Mccain is in a time warp, and his running mate is a laughing stock in Australia. I am all for womens equality but i would run to the hills if she were running your country! The paper doll is paper thin..

Niki

Australia

I had a lot of respect for John McCain (it seems like a long time ago) but since he started his Presidential bid, I see a different person. Not only he has lost my respect but has gained my hatred. Tonight, his condescending attitude and putting spin on everything was a reminder of Karl Rove. This person cannot even entertain the remotest possibility of losing this election because this is his last chance. He shows anger and it is 'my way or high way' attitude, which is even worst than the one we have had for 8 years. US does not need an idiot again but who knows we elected one twice before.

Obama came across as one who is ready to think out of the box to find solutions to all the comples problems that is facing America. McCain said a lot about his past record and his solutions were in many ways maintaining status quo on almost all fronts – foreign relaions, domestic policies and war on Iraq! He kept hitting Obama for not acknowledging his mistake on supporting the surge but did not say anything about his faulty decision to support war on Iraq. This decision has led to a more complicated situation in Afghanistan, strengthening of Iran and now a new complication in the shape of Pakistan. What does this say for judgement of McCain? McCain would definitely make a great fire chief but not the role of Chief Executive.

Obama made a point that McCain has not acknowledged – changing the way world thinks of America. McCain likes to think of himself as the Maverick or the Sheriff who will lead US out of all the problems (of domestic economic crises, Iraq war, nuclear profileration, Russiona hegemony) shooting from the hip – unfortunately in the 21st century this will be impossible without the support of the world community which will not be possible if the curent image is not corrected. McCain's approach reminds me of Don Quixote fighting the windmill. Who is the naive one here?

As a white South African, the debate showed us the best and the worst of America.
McCain's lack of eye contact and condescending, mis-guided, 'patriotic' disdain of an opponent, is exactly what has isolated America in the world. If this is how McCain will treat heads of state, Americans must prepare themselves for a continued slide toward just another fallen empire.
On the other hand, Obama has the skills of dimplomacy, decency and respectful discourse that could save Americans.
With another arrogant cowboy in the White House, we will see the even greater forces and nations join the growing alliance of Venezuela, Russia, Iran, N Korea, etc.
Americans must not lose this opportunity of becoming great again, but it will not be done with arrogant use of force and disrespect, instead it will be done with finesse, dimplomacy and making friends. Obama has the cedentials and charachter to do that.

I left the debate feeling that Obama won. Sound bites and quips don't make a lasting impression on me, so I don't look for them in debates (McCain's little jokes seemed out of place tonight). In terms of substance Obama gave me more, while McCain gave me more complaining, particularly pork-barrel spending and Wall Street greed - though Obama's rejoinder that McCain wants to give tax breaks to rich people undercut McCain's indignation.
Obama is simply far more thoughtful, which is what our president must be. He is seems much more interested in considering a wide variety of options from an array of sources. McCain, on the other hand, seems ideological.

The debate clearly showed how Obama is different from McCain. This is the 'change' that everybody wanted. Rather than being stubborn and disrespectful, we needed a change in the attitude & approach, not only in economy & foreign policy , but on a personal level. How a person who can not be friendly & respectful to a fellow Amercan can respect & work with others? Mc Cain did not look at Obama even once , during the debate! How he is expected to look into the issues with this self-created blindedness? It seems that McCain can not be a team leader , it seems that he is a difficult person to work with.

I think both candidates did very well.

While the debate was supposedly to be carried by McCain, Obama had a got shot on some foreign policy issues despite having lesser experience than McCain in that area.

If had to score them, I would score; McCain 44%, Obama 56%.

Our friends abroad don't care who won the debate. However you can bet the kitchen sink on this fact "our enemies do." With Russia once again flexing its muscles and Iran ready to pounce, who do you think they want to win. Is it the "wise and road tested warrior" or "the new kid on the block ready to talk"? In this time of great uncertainly, we need a veteran quarterback tried and tested not a rookie who came out of college early to try his hand in world affairs. And food for thought on the economy, "taxes cuts are meaningless, if you are at the local job fair looking for work." Focus on what is meaningful with substance and not on words that leave you full but still hungry.

As an American who has lived in Africa and now lives in Nepal working with expats from around the world, I have seen how much the current administration has hurt our standing in the world through its arrogance of ignoring international law. While this may seem trivial when talking about hard decisions that need to be made in the name of security, it is not. Obama understood this when speaking about the need to change this image of America in the debate. While he may not have as extensive of record as John McCain (mostly attributed to his age), he embodies what is needed for diplomacy - the ability to listen and make good judgements. This is respected overseas and welcome. Obama understands that if elected, people will see that America is trying to return to its origin as a country worthy of world respect ... which will go further for long-term security than aggression.

Natural reaction says something about your personality and stance towards others. McCain's disrespectful non-eye contact and "looking down " on Obama certainly hurt his conveying of trust and respect to the people. The American President will have to deal with all countries in the world and should know better than be disrespectful even towards an opponent.

definately obama won todays debate with great distance

In my opinion, Obama won. He is much more informed than what I read or saw on the news. I believe though that he was a little too polite.

McCain enough about your personal experiences, we all sympathize with you. You did well for your country but enough already; sympathy will only take our decision so far.

Both of you need to be clearer on your policies and strategies. The economy is in a financial crisis right now. Your responses were good but not comforting enough.

For the record, alot of people do not wear the braclets but definately share the same views and sympathizes with the families who has lost loved ones at war. (petty and unimportant)

As a person of years I found this debate hard to watch. I have heard and seen McCain in every Republican candidate over the last forty years. Same old tired smirky, gotta be tough, cranky condescending attitude toward his opponent and the public at large. It is so 20th century. Obama on the other hand doesn't seem to have that very well controlled, but still lethal killer instinct that is required of a truly great leader. But he is certainly is living in the present century and is the far better man.

On the one hand, Obama seems to understand the big picture without dwelling on it, he seems to be digital minded with strong leadership qualities. On the other hand McCain appears to be a nice guy and seemed mentally a little tired at 71 with all this going on just 40 days before election

All McCain came across to me as saying was that he was just going to continue in the same vein as Bush – same war – same pandering to the rich with the big tax breaks – same taking away of women's rights! I can't believe Obama let him off the hook by not mentioning that McCain is the big champion of deregulation which caused this financial crisis. He was one of the "Keating Five" supporting deregulation that destroyed the savings and loan industry and he's still doing the same thing today. What does he care, with his planes, 13 cars and 7 houses? That man could care less about the voters (unless they have lots of money to support his run for the presidency). I don't want another ignorant president like Bush – all McCain and Palin can do is spout the party line rhetoric -I want a president with a brain and some dignity like Obama – he'll be able to get our country back on track and restore some respect for the US worldwide. It costs the average family $12,000 for healthcare a year. McCain is pitiful, with his “giving” the people a $5,000 credit, that’s going to be taxed, while letting the drug and insurance companies run riot over our country.

cheryl m

I just can tell you Borak won the debate and he is gonna be the next President of United States and that is final, This is the time for new generation.

Obama won the debate. He gave concrete solutions. He respect his opponent. McCain was condescending, and always raise his long experience. No one said anything on AFRICA, AFRICA....
Thomas
Cameroon

McCain is a hero, no doubt. He is also a seasoned politician, but the world has changed.
If the world were a true democracy, every human being would be able to vote for the leader of the free world. Sadly, this is not the case. If America wants to regain their place as superpower of all that is good, it must elect a leader that will be respected by all the citizens of the world. Obama will be such a leader.
The world is seeking a leader that will lead not only people in red states, but children in Africa, women in Middle East and workers in Madras.

Obama won, I agree that when McCain didn't have an answer he reverted to talking about his war record, pork barrelling and Ronald Reagan. I think Obama was very powerful and I liked what he said about how they need to change how Americans are perceived around the world.

mccain doddery old man telling war stories on his rocking chair

McCain demonstrated his indepth knowledge and experience on foreign policy but Obama held is own a little bit more on the defense side. However, McCain talking down on Obama repeating that he doesn't understand and is naive while it's obvious that Obama is capable was the wrong way from him to go. Besides that it's disrepectful, he loses judgemental credibility considering his choice for PALIN WHO IS DISASTEROUS ON KNOWLEDGE AND IN MOTIVATING ARGUMENTS!!! Obama wins! If Obiden doesn't make the same mistake as McCain in the upcoming Obiden/Palin debate the democrates are well underway......

All I keep hearing from everyone on this blog is McCain was condescending. Come up with your own words and stop copying from other people. McCain won this by a lindslide. He doesnt have to look at the little boy in his eyes. He is way more experienced and ready to lead! MCCAIN/PALIN 08

These are all fun to us, the common helpless people of the world. These might have some effect on the results of the elections, but those matter little for us.

I am a 52-year-old white male who has never voted in his life. After seeing McCain’s performance tonight. I shall rush out, register and cast my vote for OBAMA.

Heaven help us if McCain gets into office. It will be George Bush all over again. The USA as we know it will cease to exist.

Sad but simple and true !!!

As an Australian who follows the US politics closely, I thought there was one clear winner in the first debate. Obama.

The man is aware about all facets of world politics, articulate and makes his judgements based on knowledge and consultations and not (Like the existing Bush) on gut feelings. lies and deception ( as was the case with the Iraq War).

God help America if Mccain is elected. Get ready for not a recession by a depression economically and being despised worlwide.

Obama can and I believe will rescue America. Give him a chance

Well, I don't think either one of them did exceptionally better than the other... However, I found McCain's manner very condescending, rude and classless. Obama seemed more presidential. McCain is much too impulsive as exemplified by his idea of a spending freeze. It is clear that he didn't think about it and just threw it out there, basically saying "How about a spending freeze? Will this finally answer your question?"

from Belgium.....does it really matter who won this debate ? the important issue is the national and only true poll : the election ! anyhow who ever wins, i'm pretty sure no genius will sit in the oval office........good luck to the world.............

Mccain did well. Obama was also impressive. But I must say that I'm particularly disturbed about McMcain's verbal accidents. You can definitely deliver your points without being necessarily disrespectful to your colleague. Honestly, the only thing I could remember afterwards was this "aggression" from McCaine and that's why I'll give the debate to Obama.

Not looking into your opponents eye is a sign of insecurity and weakness- and disrespect.
Diplomacy should always go FIRST to protect lives- Mccain mocking Obama for his point of view on diplomacy was so unproffessional!

And hekept portaying Obama as the nayive unexperienced guy who "didn´t understand it"- over and over again, so rehearsed and scripted! and then all the grandpa stories... and that´s supposed to make him more qualifyed? it´s all a script, he´obviously trying to manipulate people´s feelings about his experiences.

I hope american people are wise to choose the right guy this time.

Bart from Australia here. Certainly Obama looked more relaxed, but both sides made telling points. Either candidate would make an excellent president, but for my money, McCain is too handcuffed to the Bush legacy, with his 90% acquiescent voting record, for his attempt to portray himself as a "maverick" to retain any credibility. His voting record is the bottom line – a McCain presidency would, for all intents and purposes, be a third term of George W. Bush

However, I would appreciate a CHANGE.

maccain won for rough behaviour which he well learned from mr bush.

Bangladesh

obama is the future.
maccain and bush, are the past.

I am neither a republican nor a democrat but all I can say to this debate, I think both candidates did well depending on how you are looking at it. Some will say McCain won and some will claim Obama won, that is politics though and we understand. But just to speak my mind, I really think Obama did well, especially when we consider the issues which they were talking about which McCain claims to be well informed. He spent most of his time talking about Regan and words like “Obama you’re wrong” we don’t expect this from a US President. He really didn’t have anything new to offer but try to make Obama look simple. I am sure American people are wise and that is why they will make a wise decision come November. To my beloved president to be, you spent a lot of time trying to find some common ground with McCain, you don’t do that to your competitor! Style up and don’t do this in the next debates. Please don’t be “too” polite, work hard to save this great nation from the current predicament and restore the American dream here at home and abroad! By the way, did you know that if the world was to vote for American president you could have had an overwhelming/landslide win? People have a lot of expectation you so roll your sleeve and get harder! Good luck senator!

McCain was a disgrace. Sour, small and bitter. Like an overripe lemon.

Obama came across as the know it all self righteous person we all hated at school because their self righteous was just a tool to make us feel as insecure as they were!

The McCain campaigners came out saying that their candidate was more presidential. Gimme a break!

While we all know that words that come out from our mouths can sometimes be incoherrent with our thoughts; body language, posture and gesture says a lot more things. I thought Obama was alot more Presidential by a mile. Notice how he was first to offer a hand and use the other to pat McCain's arm. On Obama agreeing with McCain, that was just normal people according respect. Obama Uno, McCain Nada

I would have to say that, as an Australian, I believe Senator Obama's comments about the declining esteem in which the United States is held by the rest of the world, were spot on. In the back of the minds of almost everyone I know there's a little voice that says "It serves the buggers right" whenever stories emerge of the USA being hurt in some way. And isn't that awful?! To feel this way about a country that was once such a leading light.

Americans cannot be trusted to elect a leader on their own.... They proved that when they voted in GWB. The US election should be open to everyone in every country that is prone to catching a cold whenever America sneezes.

I thought McCain came across as an old hack. A condescending, patronising idiot. Obama Rocks. He's refreshing. He's eloquent. On an altogether different intellectual plain than the moron I hope he'll be replacing in the White House.

Go Barak Go!!! You've got my vote!

To me, it was great to hear that both candidates know where South Asetia is, that they both know who Amadinajad is and that they both clearly care about America's role and standing in the World. A pleasant change from the GWB in 2000. That said, I felt that Obama had a better sense of the future while McCain focused more on the issues of the past. After this debate I feel better about America's future than any time in the last eight years.

Here is the best candidate for president that has presented himself in my lifetime. He is capable of bringing morality back to a great nation and becoming the greatest leader of the western world in this generation. Obama clearly won his first debate. His country needs him and hopefully will not spurn the opportunity to elect him shortly. The world needs him.

Surely Obama won. Mccain's disrespectful manner towards Obama confirms that he's just another Bush.I swear if mccain wins the presidency (God forbid) he'll continue the failed wars i Iraq nd Afghanistan and as well start wars with Iran and Russia and Russia will allign with Iran and surely they gonna defeat the us that's when our downfall will come ..under mccain.
Obama 08

While I was surprised McCain seemed to hold his own about the many topics addressed, it was definitely Obama, in the end, who came across as the more presidential candidate. McCain's repetition of phrases like "maverick" and "mr. congeniality" , his lack of eye contact at Obama, smirking and patronizing "Senator Obama doesn't understand" comments and painfully awkward conclusion made me feel a little embarrassed for him and reminded me that he is 70! While Obama on the other hand, though without the years of foreign affairs/military experience, came across as cool, calm and collected.

Tome, Obama roundly won the debate. Demonstrated finer and better knowledge of both foreign policy and how to get America out from the economic crises. He recognized the low public image of the USA all over the world and the urgent need to reverse the ebbing tide , first by effective diplomatic engagement. He was very polite and decent even when voicing his dissent to Mccain's views or stance.

McCain in contrast was too impolite and condescending all the way to Obama. The way he distances himself from everything about the Bush administration suggests desperation to win this election – and that reinforces his unfriendly and rude disposition towards Obama. He talked too much about himself and his war experiences as if called to present his biography. He appeared too full of himself and would embarrass Americans in his external relations if elected. His attitude would certainly not help American image overseas. Neither will his mantra of spending cut bring America out of the present economic meltdown.

On Iran issue McCain was repeating Bush policy on conditional talks and he was giving misleading comments that there should be no direct talk between presidents. Nobody ask to have direct talk between presidents. As Obama mentioned unlike in America president is not the top man in Iran.
American should remember that it was a deal between Republican and Iranian authorities to delay release of American hostages in Iran in order to get credit in their name and to win the election. And again it was Republican that during the peak of Iran – Iraq war they secretly were sending arms to Iran that resulted in Iran – Contra scandal.
In general this debate proved that Republicans are going to follow footsteps of Bush policies but Democrats want changes in favor of American public in all aspects.
I don't think American can afford another cowboy.

Let me start out by saying that I am voting for Senator Obama. That said, in all honesty I didn't learn anything new from either candidate in this debate. You could say Obama won because McCain was supposed to win and didn't, but ultimately the debate was mostly a draw. Obama is much smoother and more comfortable in this type of environment. McCain on the other hand appears shifty and has very poor eye contact.

These are all fun to us, the common helpless people of the world. These might have some effect on the results of the elections, but those matter little for us. However, I would appreciate a CHANGE.

A little disappointed from the standard of debate. I expected much better performance from both of them. McCain showing some signs of desperation. Obama would have to come out firing on foreign policy issues. Both the candidates were dodging a little, perhaps not knowing how the voters would react and did not go all out.

If race is not an issue,Obama would be next President of the USA.

John McCain and Barack Obama should stop playing politics and face facts, there blame games are totally outta line, they should rather concentrate on how to take america and her citizens to the america of the future and not dwell on the past errors of their leaders. as long as there are humans on planet earth, there'll definitely be mistakes but the best thing we can do is learn from them and not blame someone on why things are not working. the american people need a thoughtful, wise and good-decision maker and not just an all talk talk president. look around, the world is crumbling, the economy is crunching, floods and hurricanes are killing people. Both candidates should wake up and face reality.

As a costarrican it was very hopeful to see the possibility of changes in United Satates. What Obama says about broad vision is way so true. The world need a president of the United States that gains the respect, the dignity and the leadership in many countries that could be US allies and friends.
Bush politics had caused too much damage in many countries. He had misused the power that US citisens gave him.
Mc Cain and Sarah Palin scares. The world need change and Obama can lead the process.
Have a so reflexive election.
Dora (Costa Rica)

Presidents also come to office with advisers and confidants. It scares the hell out of me that this would constitute the likes Phil Gramm, Karl Rove and Henry Kissinger.

McCain has labeled himself a maverick. And his cooing supporters keep repeating it like it was a mantra. But let me remind you that people who are called "mavericks" are often also rogues and renegades. Bush is a "maverick" too – and look what HE got us into.

Oh, and BTW, when he took office, Bush had ZERO experience. Even after four years – and LOTS of experience – he was still as clueless and inept as he was his first day in office. Experience CAN be good, but only if we're willing to LEARN from it. Surely you know people who have failed to do that? (And you should include #1 in that evaluation, if you wish to be honest.) McCain enters every area where he has gained "experience" with a set of pre-conceived notions that he won't change, even if his "experiences" indicate that he should.

Do we need a renegade or a rogue as president? Or a thinker, a scholar who will carefully study all the pertinent FACTS before making a decision?

C'mon, America, let's get us some BRAINS in the White House. For a change. Okay? We don't need another non-compos-mentos president who gets by on lies and propaganda.

Whaddayasay? Can we go for it? A truly smart president? A wise one with good judgement, maturity and compassion for the suffering of US, the People? We DO count for something, y'know.

Whoever wins, our next president will have the Augean Stables to clean up before he can begin to make inroads into the important issues. McCain is comfortable in what the horses put there, but Obama will feel the need to clean it up. It'll delay some of his plans, but that doesn't mean he"ll neglect them. McCain HAS no real plans. None that he'd care to tell us about, that is. His notion to "freeze all spending" was astonishingly ignorant and reckless. Isn't HE the one who claims to have all that "experience?" Surely he would know, better than Obama, how reckless that statement was. But he said it.

Obama tried to hint that maybe getting out of a war that's costing us BILLIONS every MONTH would be one good step to take. McCain did not care to say whether he agreed with THAT or not, did he?

Guess he forgot to list the war expenses in those three "exceptions" to a spending freeze. Dohhh.

BTW, has ANYONE investigated whether Iraq has been selling OIL to the U.S. these past years since the invasion? To whom, how much and when? I think therein may lie some of the reasons Bush/McCain are so STUCK on staying in Iraq. Anyone know of an investigation?

McCain really demonstrated what he thinks America should be by his condescending patronizing posture. He didn't mind showing spite regardless of how much Barrack tried to be nice to him. That is the "white American man" I knew 30 years ago when I was pursuing PhD studies at the Univ. of Md. Time has stood still for McCain. Is this kind of primitive arrogance what America needs? Wake America don't ashame yourself, join the rest of humanity.

Andrea

watching from europe

I was quite surprised that so much time was spent on old war stories. Mc Cain seems to live especially in the past. Obama lives just bow and thinks much more about today and tomorrow.

To me, Obama roundly won the debate. He demonstrated finer and better knowledge of both foreign policy and how to get America out from the economic crises. He recognized the low public image of the USA all over the world and the urgent need to reverse the ebbing tide , first by effective diplomatic engagement. He was very polite and decent even when voicing his dissent to Mccain’s views or stance.

McCain in contrast was too impolite and condescending all the way to Obama. The way he distances himself from everything about the Bush administration suggests desperation to win this election – and that reinforces his unfriendly and rude disposition towards Obama. He talked too much about himself and his war experiences as if called to present his biography. He appeared too full of himself and would embarrass Americans in his external relations if elected. His attitude would certainly not help American image overseas. Neither will his mantra of spending cut bring America out of the present economic meltdown.

Obama won by street lengths.....this ~ my friend~ do from McCain is old fashioned out of touch stuff

McCain performed better than I had expected, but Obama still won. No killer punches by either candidate though. It continues to amaze me that many people think McCain is better on national security. Why, because he was a prisoner of war? How does that make you qualified? By choosing Sarah Palin as his VP, he has shown his utter disregard for national security. If you truly care about national security, you do not pick someone like Palin in a time of war, when you are in your seventies and there is a reasonable chance you might not survive your term in office.

Also, why does McCain think that making lots of enemies around the world is somehow going to improve America's security? No wonder though he won't meet that Iranian madman president – he can't even pronounce his name! Pathetic.

Obama is a salesman, no substances!

Obama by a mile, no many miles !

Obama have to be the next President of the USA.

Obama by a mile, no many miles.

There's no doubt that, without any spin, Obama won this debate and should win the election. Without any partisanship, is there really any question as to whom will be pragmatic in guiding the US through it's most difficult times in decades? It is laughably obvious that McCain will say anything and do anything to further his own agenda with his pandering spin doctors providing ludacrus back-up. During this presidential debate I saw a kindergarten-minded McCain try to pass off himself as a statesman. Does he really think that anyone believes anything he says anymore?

It was amazing how much more poised, presidential, and intelligent Senator Obama seemed this evening - in contrast to the smirking, condescending, smugness of Senator McCain. I believe that electing McCain and Palin would be an unmitigated disaster for America. Honestly, if Americans put that man in the White House, following these last eight awful years of Bush, I guess we might deserve all the miserable things that will come of it.

Both candidates have their special characters. McCain is an experienced politician and is packaged well on his experience and no doubt he has a long service record due to his age. Obama asked the right questions and clarified his points well. Obama has a clear vision and a heart for the grassroots while McCain tends to follow the old tradition. I have some doubts on the successful records he claimed.

I gave it to Obama 60/40 on the basis of clearly outlining the issues and actions, ability to react and think on his feet, and he showed a good grasp of detail from economics to foreign policies. In the latter area he clearly sees the negative images the past policies have created abroad, and his future negotiation approach rather than confrontation was convincing. McCain was stiff, somewhat aloof, and his patronising demeanor worked against him.

I think Obama presented the most intelligent views, and understands the strategic mistakes of the current administration. McCain was defending his prior mistakes badly.

Good luck to Obama!

The choice is simple. The past with McCain or the future with Obama.

It was very clear: Mc Cain – Obama stands for:
1. old versus new,
2.old agains change,
3 war agains peace.

Obama: it's time to help the amercan people first than spendimg billion dollars in the east.

And i was surprise that de experience issue was not a problem for McCain when selecting Palin as VP.

I agree this was a clear win for Obama. McCain's attitude was distasteful and unbecoming of what is expected from the next President of the USA. Frankly the old guy needs a reality check as this is not 1948 but 2008.

I am writing from Italy. Both candidates showed to have most of the knowledge needed to debate skillfully and McCain has the personable touch that many Americans like and respond to. On the other hand, Obama has always appeared more serious, more focused and coherent and did so tonight as well. The fact is, America can't afford to act like a 20th century superpower and Obama clearly understands that. He is not teling all he knows. McCain on the other hand has the old American mentality that still thinks the world ought to respect America because of the Normandy invasion, which he mentioned during the debate and praised again. People around the world have moved on. They don't care. Obama seems to fit in this world view a lot more. That is why he is so popular everywhere. Will Americans understand?

Certainly Obama represents the personality of future America. He won the debate and will give America much improved global standing. Our country will be safe under his administration. McCain is fossil fuel and the ghost of bad administrations past. This is particularly true in the realm of foreign policy. That old crusty ideology of the past has got to be shelved.

obama won.

I, like John McCain, am 72, am very much alive, very much engaged, and bright. However, we desperately need a President who is intelligent, who can study and think on his own, who is open to all concepts, strategies, ideas, even opposing ideas, who is congenial and polite to everyone...everyone, even in a debate or in disagreement, a leader who can look forward and not always resting on past accomplishments.

John McCain has been a good senator....he should continue to serve our country....and Arizona. The debate tonight proved he has been where he should be, in the Senate.

Obama won hands down. And yes McCain was incredibly rude and condensending. How strange that the CNN commentators viewed Obama giving John his due respect to be weak and McCain's narrow viewpoint and his not listening to what Obama was actually saying, as the reason that McCain came out ahead........Good luck to a county that desperately needs change but is too afraid to accept change to move ahead! America needs Obama!

I am American-educated, but not an American citizen. So Americans can argue that my views do not count. While that may be the case on the ballot box, my views may be resonant with how non-Americans see America–which presumably matters in foreign policy.

On the issues, Obama held his own. McCain may have had an edge, but ever so slightly.

On demeanor, however, Obama came across as more open and diplomatic. The fact that he acknowledged his opponent, "Senator McCain is right..." showed Obama's willingness to give credit where credit is due, and to some extent, his willingness to listen and embrace others' ideas. On the contrary, McCain made no such acknowledgment–which does not necessarily make him superior. If at all, it hinted a superiority complex.

One of the TV analysts I think neatly encapsulated it. This debate was similar to Nixon and Kennedy–at least in terms of personality characterization; the former more agitated, the latter composed.

If I were a foreign leader, I'd be more interested in talking to Obama, who seemed more willing to listen. The kind of hardballing attitude that McCain exuded, which bordered on petulance, is the same kind of smugness that foreigners loathe. America, as Obama correctly pointed out, is the greatest nation in the world. Most of the world knows it, even if many may not like to hear it. That said, America need not be arrogant to establish its dominance–which is how McCain came across to me.

I would rate the debate 5 out of 10 because we didn't really find out anything new about the candidates. If seemed both McCain and Obama were like school kids who had spent the night preparing for a geography test when the test was actually on maths. Rather than change tact to the economy they would rather talk about the stuff they had rehearsed for months.

I think the Bush experiment has proved to be the utter failure that most the people in the UK predicted 8 years ago. Bush was the most right-wing conservative president in the history of America and he ends up being their worst president in the history of the USA. This proves that gun holding, greedy, insular, upper class, we don't need the world, evangelical and backward thinking politics doesn't work in this modern world (Mrs Palin). America needs a more progressive and intelligent leader like they have in other West Nations and Obama is probably that man.

What surprised me was all this talk about foreign policy mentioning Iran, Iraq and Russia, but China was only mentioned briefly by Obama. I think what most Americans don't realise is that China have own most of America's bad debts effectively meaning China own America as their creditors. This means Bush's only major achievement, besides making America the most hated and laughed at country in the world, is turning America from the number 1 economic power to number 2 after China.

Who won? No one did and no one will till November because when you have two very good debaters, you get very boring and predictible debates. The VP debates will be more interesting. The world sniggered at Palin and then became scared because Americans were actually taken her seriously after one speech. There seems to be this shock in the American that Palin can read a speech and tell joke, like Women who can talk is a new thing. I often find getting women to stop talking would be the real revelation. But Palin does bring glamour, agression and homeliness to a job that actually requires seriousness, diplomacy and worldliness.

Fact 1: MC is 72, Obama is 50 Fact 2: MC cannot/will not be flexible Obama can/will. Fact 3: In 3 years MC will be 75, Obama 53 Fact 4: MC is an old politician with old ideas Obama is a new politician with new ideas Fact 4: MC has more chances in dying in Office, Obama much fewer. Fact 5: MC along with Mugabe and few others are old, very old not wise men who should and must retire from politics.Exept from a strong based marketing team which promotes them they offer nada to the youngsters of our times.

America can vote republican again and witness a swift dissapearance of their world stand in less than one term of presidency. The sheer ignorance is overwhelming.

McCain appeared arrogant even while he was short on substance. He scores a big zero on temperament and demeanor expected of a future President taking on world leaders. His repeated cliche that "Obama does not understand" was distasteful. People are already tired of hearing his Vietnam war service. McCain as President will not help to improve the image of US.

It'sa matter of priority.
The working class in the USA is in crisis.
So, a president with vision will first invest in the wel being of the Americans.
So, its clear that the USA must solve there problem first instead of investing million x million (dollars) en the lives of 1000's young ones.
Mc Cain lacks of vision. He is always looking back in the time. That is not what USA needs now. USA needs to look forward. Don't live in the past.

A clear mastery of the issues was demonstrated by John McCain. If I was undecided before the debate, I am clearly inclined to be in the McCain camp.

Obama´s half baked proposals are not only sounding tentative, but are increasingly looking very dangerous for America and the world. Obama may gain some mileage in arguing that he was against the Iraq war ab initio. However, the war is a reality and the next president will have to decide and execute a strategy that can end the war with honor for the United States and the Iraqui people. Beating your chest about having made the right call in opposing the Iraq war is yesterday´s decision. It neither adds nor contribute to a future resolution.

Clearly reminded us of Ronald Reagan´s assertion to Walter Mondale: " I do not want to exploit the youth and inexperience of my opponent"

Americans, give us a break. Judge your candidates by the issues and their stance. Their body language should be of secondary importance.

Neither candidate did an astounding job in the debate. McCain seemed, at times, angry, and condescending, while Obama seemed, at times intimidated and unfocused. McCain kept talking after his turn, and also responded when he was not supposed to. Obama let him. I would give an insignificant edge to McCain on the debate, but take it away from him because of the fiasco of him flip flopping on taking part.

I'm amazed anyone could think for a moment that John McC won the debate. After a week of hissy fits, he was almost comatose with nothing new to bring to the table but his old war stories. By contrast Obama showed depth, a presidential personality and common sense that should pave the way for a move to a white house if racial bias doesn't get in the way.

Obama absolutely won that debate. And it looked like Obama was debating not John McCain but John Rambo.

Not being an American, my comments are based more on the "warmth" I felt when either of the candidates were speaking.

Obama came across as someone who is warmer and more respectful of the other person.

We should acknowledge both candidates contributions within the allowed 90 minutes of the debate. But Sen. Obama was better broaden and specific where necessary than Sen. McCain in the bid to respond who as a next America leader to fix current economic woes and restore Americas globally detoriated image and values.

Dr. Johnnel Olabhie
Germany

Mc Cain is much older than Obama. But, seems that Obama has "EMOTIONAL QUOTIENT" higher and better than Mc Cain. Many times Mc Cain said and blame "Obama doesn't understand". For me, it is not POLITE to say that words in the big significant official forum like that. It is the matter of attitude. It shows Mc Cains character. I hope USA people will choose the president who has good charqcter, better attitude and better "Emotional Quotient".

Youth ia on the side of Obama who was totally focused as he paid all attention towards McCain.
I believe Obama was well stocked up with facts. He is eminently qualified to be the President but I have my doubts whether white America is ready for a black President.

While they talked about the Iranian President
Ahmadinejad none mentioned about what he said about the decline of
the US Empire, I had expected them to talk about the Iranian Bourse
hoping to open trade of oil in Euros as the signs are very ominous
and the decline of the almighty USDollar will bring the USA into a tailspin.

I hope both candidates are smart enough to take such a scenario into
serious consideration and do the right things to forestall the imminent decline of the USDollar.
.
They must wake up to conmbat this happening to come.
I hope it will not happen at this stage, for it will bring about
a global chaos...

McCain lacked subtlety and grace throughout the entire debate. He obviously lied and manipulated Obama's past words on several occasions. When Obama was speaking he failed to look him in the eye and just stood there with a cheesy condescending grin on his face.

McCain won. He answered all questions directly and made sense. Obama avoided direct answer and running around.

On a number of occasions McCain said Obama "didn't understand" a topic just after the guy got done giving a rather brilliant analysis. Every time he did this it served only to diminish McCain himself. If he had said instead that he disagreed with him, I would have respected his position. As it was, I found him condescending and wrong headed. As for Obama, I've heard it said people wished he'd been angrier with McCain and his part in the fiscal debacle. I disagree. Obama's job right now is to appeal to the undecided voter, and part of the reason they are undecided is that they (some of them) are latent racists. Seeing an angry black guy berate a decorated war veteran is not going to appeal to them.

All this blaming of pork barrel spending by McCain, but did he forget that Sarah Palin is one of the worst offenders, including a request for nearly 200 million earlier this year? Senile or lying? Either way, not a man I want in charge.
OBAMA in 2008!

Obama 60%
McCain 32%

I am not an American but I take time to closely monitor the developments in American politics for one simple reason – I still support America's symbolism of freedom and equality. Watching the debate this morning (in Asia) tells me two things: 1. If McCain is to be elected, then the rest of the world need to brace itself for a heavier downturn. McCain truly epitomizes someone living in the past and only breathing in the present. Putting him to power would be a clear signal of America's withdrawal as a supporter of peace and a promoter of harmony. 2. If Barack Obama is to be elected, then the rest of the world can begin to look forward to a period of healing and into the future. Obama has consistently showed himself grounded and head-on focused. I am not an American and I cannot vote. I only sit and watch and hope that the Americans will continue to be smart in their selection and put a leader that will not only lead their country but will also bring together nations to build a better tomorrow for our children.

McCain's lecture to Russia/Putin on "illegaly" invading Georgia stood in grotesque contrast to his marked obliviousness of USA's total, well-planned and ruthless destruction of Iraq that has been systematically ongoing for more than half a decade now. Listening to McCain, it would seem that the (uninvited!) Americans are some sort of freedom fighters for the Iraqis!

His stance epitomises the unabashed self-righteousness that marks America's foreign policy and is so obvious to anyone but to Americans of McCain's ilk. Presidential candidates today have to keep in mind that they are being as closely followed and observed abroad as they are in their own country.

I watched the debate from South Korea where I am presently living and working. The thing that struck me immediately while listening to the two candidates was McCain seemed to be reciting his resume while trying to impress everyone with how many leaders' names he could remember. Experience is an overstated asset. In many cases, such as in the case of McCain, it just means you've been around too long. Obama is clearly more visionary and is the fresh new blood of leadership the US badly needs, especially at such a critical time when the country is floundering on all fronts. My absentee ballot was completed well before this debate and nothing from tonight's performance did anything to change my mind. In fact, it just reaffirmed my choice of Barack Obama as the next President of the United States of America.

This wasn't a debate so much as Obama sharing his visions for a better America and a McCain whose only goal was to drag Obama down to the slimy depths that characterize the worst in politics. How much time was wasted by Obama having to clarify again and again the lies and half-truths thrown out by McCain? Honestly!! Obama tries to take us two steps forward and McCain uses his time to drag him one step back.

At one time McCain may have been ready to lead this country but that time has passed. The worst of politics (spin, slander, lies) has sunken it's teeth into McCain and that is a burden we've carried as a nation for 8 years too long already.

Obama won with great difference.Very powerful,with specific suggestions,willing to agre with johnnie in some things. congratulations Barack!!!
Greetings and good luck from Europe!

McCain's egotistic attitude just shows that if elected President, the US will have a cold and distant White House... No US citizen will be able to reach out for support/guidance, none will be heard...not to say forget the eye to eye contact. He'll treat everyone as inferiors because he'll always see himself as the "Maverick" of the ship.

Again, McCain showed substance, Obama showed Rhetoric.

I believed the debate was very interesting and informative. However, there has been an adage that I've lived by and that is "you can never make yourself look big by making someone else look small". Obama took the high road and gave acknowledgement and respect to McCain but McCain took the low road and offered distain and disrespect.

Obama won by a small margin. The importance of these debates is for the independent and undecided voters to be swayed to vote for either side. In this sense, a lot of that would depend on the personality difference, command of a tense moment that a debate would give both candidates. The cool and unpatronizing stance of Obama probably will convince those independent voters, that he has the mental attitude and judgment to handle all responsibilities of the presidency.

If McCain wanted to show his mastery of foreign policy, i think he failed by describing where he has been and names (some of which he got wrong) without pointing to any solid outcomes of those encounters. So he's been there, what then? Foreign policy is definately not about travelling to many countries and meeting leaders- angelina jolie does that but i bet even her knows its about influencing by negotiation and not describing the number of countries and people you've met previously-so it was low to have a couple post commentators rate his performace on foreign policy as great. Was neat to have Obama create linkage between foreign policy and domestic issues – that's the aim of foreign policy. A leader also needs to be able to see the bigger picture, this was lacking with McCain.

Still talking about outdated war policies/tactics. US and the world is in financial crisis. Come on McCain, the great american hero, wake up and forget the past, and show the feature for citizens

There is a proverb `long term patient (knows what medicine needs to take in time to survive), can never become a doctor`.

Senator McCain has the experience: he won the debate and I am a registered democrat voting for experience and leadership! Barack is a well spoken Harvard lawyer with barely any government experience!
McCain EARNED the White House.....period

John Mccain will win I bet all of you americans 100 dollars. My recomendation is don't vote, the election will be fraudulent and George Bush govenrment will put an algorithm in the Elections Information System, and for every 3 votes Obama receives, John McCain will receive 4. At the end the result will be: Johm McCcain 53%, Obama 46.5%. Forget politics, your economy will be worst every day.

Really what debate did you watch. Obama still cannot put ah ah ah sentence together without saying ah. I was presidential at the age of two by the Obama standard.

What we really need is a president who knows how to cater to the lowest common denominator and can fit the words terror, terrorism, and terrorists into his language, at a rate of four inclusions per sentence. McCain will clearly be more proficient in this area. Regarding tonight's debate, I found Obama too articulate and eloquent. He thinks on his feet and speaks like a polished debater, which is exactly what we don't need, lest millions of American mistake his eloquence for sissiness and latent weakness. Also, his willingness to look McCain in the eye shows that Obama is flat-footed and weak-knee'd.

I think I agree with Jimmi, I think it was close to a draw overall. I was pleased with the tenor of the debate, though I do agree with some comments on smirks and demeanor, but I understand them. Bottom line I think the specificity of Obama and the tax cut issue was well done, and frankly one I agree with. However give our nations current status in the world, and the problems facing us, I am not sure who can solve it.

McCain wins he was firm he always was on the solid ground,at home.
He can represent the USA for the next 4 years he is qualified to defend our Country and to fix our economy.
Barak Husein Obama failed.

Watching the live debate in India, I thought that neither candidate outsmarted the other.On the state of the US economy, Senator Obama's prescription is more likely to work than Senator Mc Cain's.On Foreign Policy,Senator Obama very admirably stood up to the more experienced Senator Mc Cain.And this should go in some way convincing many voters who think that he is inexperienced and naive on Foreign Policy issues.For an ousider like me, it is equal marks to both the candidates.

1st lets acknowledge that both candidates performed better than expected in areas we thought they'd falter.
Presidentially, Obama won. He was more composed & respectful. McCain at one point looked like he was tryin 'Father knows all', which Obama handled well.
On issues raised, both were poor. None put in straight hard answers. They all seemed to be vague to give themselves room to wiggle out in future.
Attitude, I was disappointed when Obama called McCain JOHN. He seemed to have forgotten that the Primaries are over. McCain on the other hand was no better,how did he stay up for 90mins with so minimal eye contact with his opponent. This raises the question on his level of respect of his opponents whether its in Capitol Hill or on foreign land.
All in all,not because I'm Kenyan but Obama was the more impressive though he should have used more of the opportunity during the the 1st half of the debate on financial issues. It was even more impressive on how he handled the Foreign Affairs segment which clearly favoured McCain.
I'm looking forward to wake up @ 3am again 2 watch the next debate which I hope will be more fascinating to watch

Obama Won ... Mccain was trying to exhibit and enunciate his worn out experience.

McCain’s disrespectful and condescending attitude is telling us exactly what we can expect from him if he is elected. If he was not able to look in the eye at Obama standing next to him, will he see us, the people, of course not?
I’m surprised he didn’t go back to Eisenhower or Lincoln, he personally knew and work with them, this is telling me that he’s not only old is also out of touch with the reality living in the past and what is worst “NO REGRETS”.
His experience is what we don’t need; his experience is a BAD experience.

I thought that Obama did very well, esp. considering that people were considering McCain to have an 'edge' with the topic being foreign policy.
It is pretty shocking to me that McCain basically LIED, as Henry Kissinger did say that we should meet with Iran's leaders with no pre-conditions. I don't understand how people can LIE in front of the American public and get away with it. These lies demonstrate a lack of integrity that SCARES me and I cannot imagine how many more lies we would hear from this man if he were (God forbid) elected president.

Senator McCain tries to resemble Ronald Reagan, he tried a couple of one liners, which failed. McCain is more a shadow of GW Bush than Ronald Reagan. Yet, Senator Obama also failed to deliver a knock out punch even when it seems all is at least against the Republicans.

Obama represents all that is great about America. McCain has sold has soul to the devil – whatever integrity he might have once had has been thrown into oblivian. This debate clearly showed who has the intelligence, composure and common sense to lead the free world – and it isn't John McCain.

In Holland we are not that emotionally involved with the candidates. Most of us would prefer Obama as he seems more prepared to deal with middle- and lower class needs. My overall impression form what I have seen with McCain is that he has a problem taking directions. In the debate Obama summarized it by saying,"which issue he brought up should I adress to?" , which was a killer as McCain roamed from one issue to the other in the preceding 5 minutes without any coherence. Basically I miss coherence in McCain. And of course his Iraq stance is absurd, US has take care of its own business now and get out of there in a clear time schedule. Obama will have more authority in world politics. His direction is clear, he is determined, he is very tall and his voice doesnt crack. Those may seem to be minor details yet they matter.

McCain has a deep understanding and clear vision regarding world affairs. Not so with Obama. Here in Europe I would sleep better if McCain lead the free world.

Here in Denmark we wached the debate with a lot of
exitement. Before we used to look up to USA, but not anymore. George Bush has put USA in a bad situation politically and economically. We hope for a change and Maccain is not what USA need. He will just follow in the footstep of Bush administration. Back to the debate, which I think is mostly a show. We already know for a long time now what the candidates stands for and what is the politics of the parties. If I have to commend on the "show". I think that Maccain was much to agreesive and less diplomatic as a future president. Obama stood up with dignety and respect for his apponant. Here in Denmark we think that Obama can change USA and the world. We need dilpomacy to end terrrorism and not escelating the war that Maccain stands for.

This is surpose to be MacCain night. Unfortunately, Obama has again demostrated that he is intouch with the reality. Macbush is just desperate to be president even if is for one day. I think american's are smarter than his Republican fear tactics.

Obama came on top as the future President, handled McCain with respect despite Mc Cains egotistice and down right rude attitude, would have been easy for Obama to react in the same manner, he did not and remained mature throughout, America has lost its way for the past 8 years and will need a President that can take pride in the manner it handles the world and its leaders, on that point alone Obama is the man. I would expect in the next round for Obama to be a little sharper with McCain, polite ofcourse, but not allow him to take that bully attitude.

We all may say who won to support our pre-conditioned choice. What we should be asking is who answered the questions directly and supported their answer with action and not just slogans.

I could not believe that Senator McCain could stand there with a straight face and say that he understands what America needs and what needs to be done, he has EXPERIENCE !!

Senator McCain (Mr Experience) and his republican friends claim they have experience and the skills the country needs to recover and be GREAT again..

The reason our great country is in the crisis both economical and in international community, with our reputation crumbling to a point where no country wants to be part of our initiatives, our reputation and influence waning is because of Senator McCain and the republicans and their actions over the last 8 years..

If we really need to see what another 8 years of republicans and Senator McCain would bring us.. all we have to do is look around us !!

Our deficit went from surplus when republicans took over to EXTREME deficit

Our banks are failing
jobs evaporating
international influence all but gone
our living standards going down

Another 8 years of this is what he is selling to us?

Senator McCain and the republicans have had their 8 years and it has been a disaster..

Senator McCain, please be a true American and do the right thing for the country and not for yourself .. Step out of the race and let there be change so we can once again rise to greatness

Obama won! If I were McCain at this point, I would just give in and support the candidate who knows what to do with the problems America is facing now. Obama seems to know how to deal with several things but Mr McCain is only interested in the war debates. America cannot continue to fight everybody, that was Bush's only area of specialization for 8 years and we know this has not helped America. Obama welcome to white House.

Only children don't look when you talk to them.!!!..........????
Eye contact means politeness, but also FRANKNESS It means I can look at you and believe me what I am saying is true and decisive. That's what Obama did wonderfully!

Not establishing eye contact show weakness and the fact that you are unsure of yourself.

McCain is likely to be of Bush kind of attitude, Republican toughness truly never works in Washington. MaCain Pre-conditioned type of negotiation is barbaric. Obama No-Pre-conditioned type of negotiation is respectful and diplomatic kind. I believe Obama is the best man to become the President of the USA.

It is generally considered to be disrespectful not to look at someone or even make eye contact when engaging them in a dialogue. It is also considered to be a sign of being untrustworthy and dishonest. Mannerisms say a lot when someone is posturing. such as McCain was. McCain genuinely dislikes Obama and does not respect him.

Whether this debate changed anything remains up to the voters to decide and the pollsters to analyze.

The main things we as voters and citizens of the U.S. must decide is who do you believe is more trustworthy and capable of leading the U.S. into the 21st century. We cannot solve the problems created by the past with the thinking of the past.

This debate showed that McCain is rooted in the past, whereas Obama is future-thinking.

I hope we as Americans make the right choice for the U.S. at this critical point in time.

Mccain focused on the earmarks. Obama pointed out that 18billion in earmarks is insignificant compared to 300 million in tax cuts. McCain responded that Obama was supporting wasteful spending and cited his record.

I was waiting for Obama to make the following point. He didint' because he must have been coached not to do so.

The IraQ war is not only the most wasteful spending junket in the last 40 years, it is also the largets pork barrel we've ever seen. Think about all the no-bid contracts that the Bush Administration has allowed, not to mention the cost plus contracts. It's really hard to take mccain seriously when he talks about wasteful spending on 18 billion dollars. We are spending more than that every two weeks in Iraq.

bb

For me Obama was the clear winner in this debate. He was really demonstrating a presidential style, good alnalytical skills in combination with a respectful presentation. You could hear and view several times that he is respecting Mc Cain, saying "John, you are right", but McCain wasn't respecting Obama, patronizinging him several times with "You don't understand".
But Obama was totally right about Iraq having been a complete distraction from Afghanistan and catching Bin Laden, and showing that McCain had a totally wrong judgment at the time the illegal invasion of Iraq started, which have costed so much on human lives, misery, US taxpayers money etc.. The body language of Mc Cain was showing his mentality. Eye contact is very important when you need to use diplomacy as your main foreign policy instrument.

BTW: In a first analysis the Dutch Debate Institute declared Obama the winner of this first presidential debate.

McCain is another cowboy in the making. Just too agressive for the 21st century. Obama has more diplomacy.

I thought Sen McCain was annoyed the whole time..
On substance..anything you say to Sen McCain, he has a story for it and he has done that before. He knows everyone in the world, been everywhere, every issue you raise he can cite a committee, or legislation that he has initiatied or disagreed with. He knows all the leaders in the world, he has a box for each country, knows how they should be handled. You expect that after 27 years in Politics..
He has been there done that, he finds anything new as rather irrlevant "Obama doesnt understand strategy and tactics he ses" to him there isnt any room for new ideas or need for changing anything..If you like the way things were done for the last 32 years, then he can get on the job on day 1. ..
In changing world, Old doesnt mean wise...

They both performed well. It is obvious that McCain has more experience and that Obama is naive. It is obvious that McCain should be the next president . A small mistake in foreign affairs could be devastating. If Jimmy Carter didn't let down our ally, the Shah we wouldn't have the distaster with Iran now...

It's clear the McCain of 8 years ago is no more. Although I voted Democratic in that election, I respected and admired John McCain as a man of integrity. That's gone out the window in this campaign. Stick to explaining your positions, McCain. Your attacks were distasteful considering they were misrepresentations of Obama's views. I also found McCain's condescending manner, the repeated "he simply doesn't understand", extremely irritating. I say Obama also won on the issues– Afghanistan always should have been our focus. The distraction of Iraq has destabilized the region, given Iran a power position it never had before the war, and has thus made the US less safe.

i really hope obama wins i think is the best for the job. i had to leave the u s because it was so much money to live there between rent and food me and my wife having 2 in comes it was just to hard. my older boy wanted to go to colage and he has no job and my young boy who has spacial need it was just to hard am on ssd and my wife just making min wag at MACY s it was no good we tryd everything to stay there and i miss my father so much so i hope obama wins and put thing back in order . ps i live in the philippine am not philippino am a pround american

i really hope obama wins i think is the best for the job. i had to leave the u s because it was so much money to live there between rent and food me and my wife having 2 in comes it was just to hard. my older boy wanted to go to colage and he has no job and my young boy who has spacial need it was just to hard am on ssd and my wife just making min wag at MACY s it was no good we tryd everything to stay there and i miss my father so much so i hope obama wins and put thing back in order . ps i live in the philippine am not philippino am a proud american

CNN stop trying to get your baby Obama elected. You are trying to corrupt the election. That is the same thing that got wall street in the situation it is in.

We should realize that a muddled up economy bites as much as war situations. I believe most Americans can't imagine such experience. Distant yourself from war mongers! Allign with civil, intellectual and diplomatic dispositions.

Hi- im from melbourne Australia
i have been very much interested in the progression of this election in the US.
the Debate was constructive from Obama's purspective, he was fluent in his thoughts, there was linear connection between his answers, very much relastic and factfull.
MaCain- nothing new really, conduct construct his point of view being any different from the old politics of the last 8 years.
he didnt really explain the consequences of staying longer in Iraq or the point behind it.
he is truely out of touch when comes to day to day hardship of people in the US and around the world. before the Iraq invasion the price of oil was very reasonable now unaffordable.
i think American should not look at the man's skin but his charector and vision for the US and rest of the world.

i agree with sarah – we here in australia watched with great interest and were impressed with obama's demeanour – he was decisive, listened and gave thoughtful and relevant answers. mccain seemed to stick to one big theme – iraq and brought his answers around to that theme whenever he could. looked to us like a bad case of tunnel vision.
we await the next debate with great interest.

I think Obama won Handily, he understands the importance of diplomacy and the need for building trust in allies rather than the go it alone mentality of McCain/ Bush strategy of spending a TRILLION Dollars! and over four thousand lives of great American soldiers as well as hundreds of thousands Iraqi lives to remove a dictator that was of no meaningful threat to us from power While those that attacked us are out there making more 'movies' and using the meaningless Iraqi war to spread their hate propaganda across over sixty countries. While I still hold my Republican views I think it's time for a new direction.

McCain was so sour he would probably dissolve into a pool of acidity after one month of presidency. McCain spoke to the camera shot. We need a man who can calmly listen and answer the question. We don't need history; we need information. That's Obama.

Thoughts from Malaysia
I think the concerned people who worry about our children’s future and the thinking person who understand the reality of oil in the US are not being represented in the polls otherwise the gap would be much greater in favour of Obama. After watching the entire process from afar I am convince that McCain will lead the US in to World War 111 and if he does not Palin will. Come on people in the US think about the world as well, you are so powerful, so you need a thinking President not an old warrior from the past.

McPain is a discount version of dee Bushes. And even though the discount could be a plus in that regard – it still counts as too messed up.

Messed up values, messed up economic politics, messed up foreign policies.

McCain wants to continue the war in Iraq – (and thereby the economic disaster of the US) – because "A mother of a dead american soldier – defines ending the war as defeat and loss of honor!?"

Reality check please!

At the same time a true visionary and a man living in the real world senator Obama is offering his work as a president for the US. To clean up after 8 years of Bush-disaster – even if it seems almost impossible to do so.

Only a redneck can get this one wrong.

I think that Senator Obama shows the world and makes it clear to the American people that he is ready as a commander in-chief and knows how to deal with the rest of the world than what Senator McCain show tonight,i allways rate Americans high but am rating them as normal like every other nationality,so i think with what senator McCain said tonight if he win the election America will lose the rest of there respect abroad,i mean both as a nation an individual.

I live in the UK and just watched the debates – I think Obama came off as a statesman and his analysis of complex world affairs was brillant and articulate. McCain was not statesman like at all but gruff and rambling and not coherent – I was disappointed at how condecening he was but Obama didn't rise to his attitude and behaviour. He was I thought deliberately misleading about Obamas position just concentrating on soundbites that might make a headline and as if the american people couldn't really understand the nucances of a detailed analysis but only a misleading soundbite like .." he just doesn't understand". Obama understands only too well thats why he has a running mate with years of Senate and foreign experience and will have the best brains to work with him. McCain seems to think the Predisency is a one man show and hes already shown us by his reference to Kissenger that his roots are firmly planted in the past and his strategy for dealing with world leaders is questionable especially in a radidly changing world and a world in which as a direct result of the failed policies of the past 8 years has diminished the USA standing not only as a global finalcial leader but as a global force for good in the world. I am only hoping the american people really aren't as gullible as he thinks they are and they see past the soundbites and elect a man with the potential to be a great statesman who will help restore Americas standing in the world and unite our allies to stand firm in the face of the worlds challenges. God help us if McCain gets in.

Didn't watch it, didn't want to. It's just more of the same. Democrats are for Democrats, and against Republicans and the Republicans are for Republicans, and against Democrats. They are so busy fighting that no one is for Americans. Obama says he's for change, but has no real ideas other than to raise your taxes. McCain is too old, and has no real ideas of his own, but he won't raise your taxes. I think it may be time to vote for "None of the above".

obama won

This is supposedly Mccain's area of expertise. The exchanges on foreign policy were pretty even, even with Obama's scathing attacks on Mccain's strategic judgement on Iraq. The VP debates will not be great for the GOP at the very least so all in all with Obama ahead in the polls, holding his own in the trickiest debate for him, the VP debates coming up and Mccain's blunder on 'suspending' his campaign, it should be interesting and even decisive if Obama stretches his lead so late in the day.

"Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them."

By treating Obama with disrespect, McCain essentially "dissed" all of us who were watching the debate, except for a few rednecks watching the debate in their local bar.

I was truly surprized to see McCain do so, as I had respected him in the past. I think his handlers are responsible for this (mis) behavior. I'm just amazed that McCain would take such advise.

Shame on you, John. Stop your antics and bring this campaign back up to a minimal level of civility.

It was quite clear to me that there was a distinct difference between the two candidates. Obama appeared intelligent, presidential, and has an excellent vision of what the US foreign policy should be. Obama also demonstrated a clear understanding of what is needed to protect the middle class in the current financial crises.

McCain on the other hand reminded me a lot of President Bush when he was promoting the invasion of Iraq. A lot of what Bush claimed turn out to be untrue. I now believe that Bush was using scare tactics. I believe McCain is using the same strategies. It is shameful. Obama is the clear winner of this first debate.

From Canada. I've been following the race for presidency for a while now. i was 99.9 % in favour of Senetor Obama, and am now 100 % in agreement of his ideas and knowledge. I believe that another 4 yrs of the last 8 would be very harmful to not only the US but the rest of the worls as well..Sandy

In the debate Obama reinforced his opponents claim that he is naïve in foreign affairs & not ready to serve as commander in chief. It is extremely dangerous to bet on such an inexperienced man who is going to have on the job training for this intricate job.

On the energy level, yes, especially for McCain, he was very alert and sharp - especially given the pace of work he has been under; so, no problems there.

I was a bit worried about his tie! (I know, minor detail, but visually I thought that striped tie would shimmer in the tv - but it wasn't distracting).

About the eyes, and smirking, agreed that Obama has quite a half/smile smirk very ready. He seemed irked several times - and, WHO was he looking to in the audience? Was Michelee off to his left? With McCain and Lehrer to his right, he seemed to glance off to the left occasionally, and gave that sort of wan smile. Michelle, or ... ?

I thouight Lehrer did a very good job, and both of the candidates handled themselves well enough. I didn't find it passionate, and would have like a few more specifics on the economy, due to the financial crisis timing. However, this WAS on foreign affairs, supposedly, so I think we should have had more focus on that.

Will the last debate, which is to focus on the economy - now include some additional comments on world affairs? That would be good, especially for an ending, and especially because likely some things will blow up over seas sometime between now and the final debate.

vsk
US Citizen / expat –

McCain clearly won this one!

A lot of what was said has been said by both candidates on the hustings and neither candidate dropped the ball in enunciating what they stood for.
For me what became apparent which hasn't been obvious in watching this process play-out from afar was the personalities of the two candidates: whereas Obama was statesmanlike and professional in his behaviour – both verbal and non-verbal – toward his opponent, McCain really did show himself for what he probably is, a cantankerous, divisive old man albeit one with a glorious past.

We'll always be big fans of the US down under but please do us all a favour and bring Obama in.

Adam from New Zealand

Dirty old McCain you won't get my vote. Obama for the world peace!

It is for most European impossible to understand that there are 40 % of Americans who would vote for McCain. He still might be a smart politician but brains at this age go only in one direction and think of him in 4 resp. 8 years from now, when he will be eighty. He leads then not only the US but more or less influences the whole world. I think this extraordinary dangerous – we do not want more wars and weapons!!
And above all, he goes in for the polls with A Vice candidate who would be without chance in Europe – uneducated, unexperienced and very aggressive. A fatal combination!
This makes it on the other hand easy for me – I would vote for Obama he is the better solution!!!

Mr. McCain lacks vision. One senses a void in his character and an absence of ability to lead effectively. As a senior politician, we would expect Mr. McCain to demonstrate or articulate deeper insights regarding the massive issues facing America today and in the near future. We are not seeing that from him. That has to be of concern to the American people. It certainly is to many others outside of America. Obama may lack deep experience and he may lack "seasoning" but his intellect, quiet confidence and vitality should offset the short side. Those who fear Mr. Obama's lack of exposure to World Affairs should recall other younger American leaders. Also, one would expect Mr. Obama to acknowledge the areas of concern and choose wisely for his cabinet. From a neutral viewpoint, It would worry me immensely to have Ms. Palin one or two hearbeats away from the oval office. She is clearly out of her depth in all aspects of the world she has just entered. American voters really must consider this point closely. She is not a viable candidate for possible presidency.

Even if I disliked someone I would have the human decency to look them in the eye when they were directly looking and addressing me in person. Was JM angry? Does he always avoid eye contact? What has caused this antipathy of JM to BO? Because if anything JM has misrepresented BO views more often than BO.

McCain is old Washington establishment. He lables himself an outsider but votes very close to Bush. MCCain is in part responsible for the financial problems we have today – by changes he supported in the 80's and 90's for lossening financial oversight. Also, how can you be against lobbyists when several 'former' lobbyists are on his team? He talks the talk but dosen't walk the walk. As he said in the debate look at his record.

McCain's smirk is a national disaster. People who smirk and say that others don't "get it" should check the mirror first. He is what is wrong in Washington. We need change. We need new leadership. We need Obama.

hey portugal, who asked you? your view of the debate reveals that you either aren't fluent in oral english, don't know much about america or its political terrain, or you have a small receptor (i.e., brain). what exactly was mccain so specific about? after criticizing obama for a week for supposedly not stating his position on the treasury proposal as modified by democrats to include the provisions that both obama and mccain outlined earlier this week, did mccain finally say "sure...yes" when Lehrer pushed him to state his current position on the bill? so does that mean mccain's cheap political trick of suspending his campaign and rushing off to washington and the crass political move by house republicans to derail the deal the economy needed yesterday for solely partisan purposes was all a waste of everyone's time and did further damage to markets (i.e., people's retirement accounts.) other than a couple of quite amusing, but nevertheless disturbing, "palin" moments where mccain clearly had no clue, the rest was tired plauditry - what was his proposal for concluding the war, what programs would he cut due to cost of bail-out, and other than talking tought and saying very short-sighted, stupid, canned things about putin and the kgb, what exactly did he say that was so specific about dealing with the russians? guess i missed all that. save me the name-dropping. so what if you have taken far too many junkets all over the world. having flown a military jet somewhere for a weekend and sat in a hotel room or on a military base provides very little in the way of experience in foreign policy. so what is the policy? must have missed that too.

I was leaning McCain before this debate. Not anymore. Now I am definitely voting for Obama.

McCain was so patronising and showed a distinct lack of respect (never once looking at Obama, never facing the camera, and hiding behind an ery smirk). McCain did better on the economy than I expected but failed on foreign policy.

Overall, Obama won the debate but, significantly, looked infinitely more presidential.

Please be informed that Europeans and even most Germans are in favour of Obama since he representents the bright side of USA, i.e. a more open minded spirit and understanding for the urgent matters of the world.

The public dispute of both candidates confirmed what is obvious: McCain is to be considered the successor of Bush which has severely damaged US reputation in the last years. It is time for a correction.

If US voters aim to contribute to regaining reputation of their nation they are strongly adviced to vote for Obama.

Obama have to be a bit more aggressive in his next debate.He has broader view in ways to tackle international issue.He is right about meeting everybody without any precondition. Talking, understanding and sizing up situation is better than not talking. Hopefully he will win the presidential election.

Barack Obama, the 44th president of the United States.

Please I read the comments of above who support Obama I am an african from East Africa and a Christian who support deeply the Prevailing of Jewish state Plese I watch the all debate at large Let us not talk because of love of our party weather Democrat or Republican, Let us see this matter with sence and clear understanding The perfomance of JOHN McCAIN in yesterday debate in case of every thing Economy and foreign policy bruttally destroy Obama feature as president of US I did expect a lot from Obama concerning the economy but yesterday he was on the defensive most of time. As black I dont imagine In this hour of complexity about the challenge Free and democratic word facing we could allow a Christian nation like America to be rulled by a person like Obama Please America Get it right.

Viva McCAIN

Ephraim K

obama won the debate, no doubt about it

I guess that is what "Debate" is about; you speak the your mind, I think McCain came out stronger with or without making eye contact. This is a Presidential Debate, not a social gathering. Talking to a person like Ahmadinejab – you need a person like John McCain.

Americans, open your eyes if you vote for M'cain we have a third world war before 2015.
God help us all
Obama deserves respect, he is a true gentleman someone who deserves the top job.
You vote for M'cain is like voting for Mr Bush at its worst. They are both arrogant and spiritually constipated and have no regards for the masses,

Obama won. He pointed out clearly what many Americans have long thought - that the decision to go to war in Iraq was one of haste over reason, and agenda over principal. He said in plain English that he would cut taxes for everyone making less than $250,000. McCain didn't want any part of a specific numbers game when it came to who he would give tax breaks to. Finally, Obama demonstrated he understood that America needs to go back to leading the world by example and ideal... rather than by fear and rationalization. McCain is an honorable man. But his vision of our country is too closely tied with that of Bush - despite his talk of being a maverick. He could have taken this unique opportunity to distance himself from Bush's policies, but he still chose to embrace many of them. If a continuation of the last eight years of "robust economy" is something you want, he's your man. However, I think deep down inside of most Americans the growing sentiment is that we have to change the direction our country is going in... and that change is Obama. He got my attention. He's getting my vote.

I really liked Obama in the debate. I am not affiliated with either party. I have never believed in the notion of being democratic nor republican. I really believe in the ideology of supporting a person opposed to a team. That person needs to have the ability to look ahead and have the foresight to eliminate problems before they transpire. Senator Obama’s character and ability to critically think through issues with an open mind will lend the support we need in the white house for the long road ahead both in the domestic and foreign sectors. I am kind of fed up with the McCain and Palin duo. I know I speak outside the debates here, but they do allude to a more than negative representation of what is to come if either member is selected into the white house. I would rather move to England and put up with Gordon Brown's politics and the Tories than endure four years of McCain.

From "1 to 10", I´d give Obama an 8, and MaCain a 6.

Obama won the debate. They say McCain is a champion for foreign policy but that did not show yesterday.

Obama is the man for the job, Period..........!!!!

Shame on McShame for acting so egotistical and immature.

Obama was gracefully presidential in his strategically organized and concise arguments while McCain labored to proof how out of touch he has become and lack of team play capabilities and most of all how pettish his arguments were. McCain was either becoming demented or a growing con with his unacceptable confusions as he obviously strayed severally from the subjects of the debate and misquoting Obama.

This debate was on McCain's favoured ground, and he didn't land a knock-out blow so even someone who scored it for him on points can't claim that it was what he needed to stop the downward drift in his polling. That has more to do with a general desire for anything but more of the same. He may be a "maverick" but his running mate is the wrong kind of "maverick": one who would be a disaster as president. That choice says a lot more about McCain's judgement than anything said in the debate.

I was very proud of Obama tonight. He did excellent! McCain is too much of the past, like Bush. You know, "act first, think later!" McCain is no a maverick, he's a stupid redneck. The way he acted towards Obama tonight was very disrepectful. Obama wants to use diplomacy in dealing with other countries. He wants to bring respect back to the USA and frankly I can't see McCain doing that. However, I can see McCain jumping hastily into another war, just like the last war (opps, I meant invasion of Iraq).He is better off going to a seniors home and resting. He is looking even older and tired lately. With all his money, he could afford a facelift!

OBAMA RULES AND WILL MAKE THE USA PROUD!

For all JM experience, he still would not directly negotiate with enemies. How can one know what common ground there is if one does not speak to a supposed enemy. Converting people with false rhetoric and threats is a fast track to isolation in an increasingly globalised world.

Barack Obama is an inspiration and a gentleman of the highest order. He won hands down.

Barack won the debate hands down. McCain was dumb, cocky and stuck in a time warp..
Barack, the international community is with you and we can't wait to see you in the White House.

Now that it's been established that the issue of the economy clearly favors Obama by most of the polls and the debate, I am concerned we could be in for an "October suprise" of the Bush administration confronting another "adverserial" country in order to switch the news focus to McCains perceived strength of foreign policy.

When a man cannot look at you in the eye it is because he is dishonest and he cannot be trusted. Untrustworthy is the opinion I formed today from McCain after today's debate. Let's face it, after these disastrous administration, how can anyone look at someone in the eye and admit that they are republicans.

Obama WON hands down.he was articulate,well composed and had his facts right!he is a respectable man and i could sense a whole lot of honesty from him.that's the kind of man one needs as President; a man i can trust to lead my country. McCain on the other hand had some good points,but not good enough considering foreign policy is his best topic. He was extremely patronising. I prefer Barack Obama as President 1000%!

Obama won....By saying "i agree" to Mccain on some points he showed that he is going to be a president who is going to listen to the American People

I think it was close, but I had a harder time following McCain's explanations. I don't know if that counts for a win for Obama or not. However, I was a bit disappointed the Obama did not seem to be aggressive in areas that I think he should have.

For example: When McCain talked about the mating habits of bears (like he always does), I was surprised that Obama didn't mention governor Palin's involvement in the pork-barrel spending of the mating of crabs. I think it would have deflated his balloon a little.

McCain overall seemed short on substance but long on explanation. Though he was good at criticizing Obama. I think people like that kind of thing and it might inspire them to side with McCain (regardless of substance).

McCain used rhetoric and criticism rather than substanance to defend his views.
The fact that he did not look at Mr Obama to me demontrates that he is using all the "techniques" possible to cover his lack of skills and knowledge. The fact he was a Vietnam vetran and prisoner of war DO NOT qualify him to be president. And Palin is even a worse disgrace!

AM in spain i woke up to watch the debate,and with the problems facing america right now as per the economy and how the world see america; McCain has nothing to offer with what he said in the debate. Obama won outrightly and America needs him now to salvage their image and the economy.

I am from the tiny country of Singapore. I watched the debate and came away with the following thoughts. Both McCain and Obama performed credibly in the debate, however, considering the McCain had been involved in politics for 26 years ( since Obama was a 21yr old) I expected more of him, that such a veteran would have pulled out all his aces when debating his pet topic. But he didn't.

What made me an Obama fan over one episode of debate was his demeanour, respect for his opponent, honest engaging eye contact with the audience, courage in taking on an experienced politician and being unflappable in the face of rentless attacks. McCain, on the other hand had me really annoyed by his bullying ways, disdain for his opponent and constant wallowing in his past credentials. Singapore is a strong ally of America in an unstable region and I believe Asia will be better engaged by Obama. Experience aside, Diplomacy is paramount in the international stage, and this is where Obama comes out very strongly, firm but always polite, real statesmanship.

sue anne wong, Singapore

I agree with all people who found McCain condescending. Ranting and raving about the past does not win the hearts of the electorates. The old man is visibly tired. Obama wins!

I hope Obama will read Mike´s Election Guide by Michael Moore especially the warnings in Chapter 2 " A blueprint for how to blow it". I mean Obama and the democrates have everyting in their favour. Reality should be their best argument – but Obama is tracked in the same pattern as earlier campaigns. He will not win the election by agreeing with McCain on everything. Put all the facts in the table and go after him! And everybody should read Mike´s Election Guide. Full of unconvenient facts and fun – but very scary as well. And yes add The Assault on Reason" by Al Gore. We need a change in the White House.

hello to everybody

it is too important for the USA and the world who becomes the next president so I was watching the debatte during the night (ET). For me, both candidates gave a moderate interesting performance but finally, based on the arguments and the willingness to partially cross the bridge to Senator Mc Cain's statements, Barack Obama seems to have a better knowlegde, judgment and systematic approach to lead the US. as well as acceptance of his political opponent which i my opinion is important when leading a world power. Acceptance yet consequence are important factors for leaders... at least in my eyes...

He has given me also as a person a better understanding how he will lead the country as the political leader even considering that we all have to respect the past long lasting carrier of Mr. Mc Cain. Let's commonly move to the future
Markus, Switzerland

mr obama is a winner who would want an old , rude egocentric guy for another 4 years in the White House

This was supposed to be John McCain's strong suit (Foreign Policy), and Senator Obama went toe to toe with him, so in that respect, I give him the win. McCain was snide and condescending, and acted as if could not bear the sight of Senator Obama. Obama was concise, and strong, and even many Republican analysts said that he did a good job.

I was amazed at how John McCain never looked directly at Obama, to me that was a sign of weakness if you don't show courage to face your opponent when you are debating on serious issues. Obama came across very Presidential and diplomatic and McCain seemed to be uncomfortable. For a debate that is focussed on foreign policy, which is McCain's supposed strength, McCain failed to show his superiority and Obama showed his strength and strong knowledge. How can McCain as a the President negotiate with world leaders when he doesn't even face Obama face to face when making a point...strange!!!

R Kannan

If the US people choose to vote for McCain after this, boy you really have a reality problem.

I am from the middle east, allegedly the source of all the trouble both financial ( high oil price) and political ( iraq, Iran, Afghanistan etc.). while I agree that McCain was over bearing, shifting eyes, repetative and old, living in the past, Obama represented the future and hope, niether candidate realised the problem simply was a blank cheque given by the Bush administration to Israel who incited America to attack Iraq.
And still they are inciting America to attack Iran. No one dares to mention the most powerful lobby aipac and the nationality of most advisors in the Bush administration holding Israeli passports !!!
On a purely inflation basis the noil is much cheaper than 30 years ago.

1. McCain mainly talks about what he did the past 2. he's a bit of a populist (especially when he talks about 'his' veterans) 3. He doesn't know much about economic issues. Bottom line: the man is not the type of leader the US needs in this 21st century.

obama, is the man. we need change. he clearly won with repect and style.

McCain used a lot of rhetoric tricks, including repeating that Obama "didn't understand" the complexity of foreign policy, telling personal anectodes that were either populistic and melodramatic ("I have a bracelet") or not pertinent (Ronald Reagan? Again?), and trying to portray Obama as naive, even by simply calling him so.

But they were all ineffective, in my opinion.

Obama spoke clearly and plainly, slowly, and I'm sure that was part of this strategy to convey an image of honesty and competence. Some people may misread that as uncertainty, but if you've heard him speak before, you know he is a great orator.

Obama certainly had more stature, made eye contact and made his points in a nuanced way that a multilateral approach requires. McCain on the other hand did not seem to want to listen to Obama (a point no doubt learnt from the current incumbent of the white house), made his points by rote and played to the lowest common denominator of emotions rather than come across as intelligently.

In my view Round 1 to Obama...

The whole world is affected by USA politics, apart from Wall St, so we have a keen interest in what you Americans do. I have to admit I was impressed by McCain and was hoping beforehand that he would be trounced. We have seen some of the misleading advertisements he has endorsed and felt that if he misleads the American public in the leadup to the election he will do it after. I thought McCain got very nervous at one stage and his mouth dried up after Obama threw some curved balls at him. Obama never got rattled.

It seems you have two really good candidates for president, but I feel, after the debate and considering all which has transpired from the start, that Obama is the best choice. Lets hope he finds a way of extricating us from Iraq without leaving them to destroy themselves in the aftermath.

I can only call this a draw. For McCain supporters he won the day. For Obama supporters he did. Citizens on both sides came out with their pre-debate views strengthened. This was to be expected.

The US have the chance for the first time to reverse the despise of the entire outside world towards them – don't blow it again and vote for modest & non-arrogant Obama.
As for the finances, they will be sorted out by themselves either way.
Nik from Greece

I'm relieved to see some reasonable comments up here.

I was also appalled at McCain's condescending arrogance. But from Hannity to Rove to Bush/Cheney to Rumsfeld to Scalia to Palin to the latest republican convention, the republicans are basically turning into a bunch of lying haters. That, stealing elections, getting oodles of money from vested interests, playing the politics of division, fear, envy, racism and whatever it takes to win, is the only way these guys can stay in power.

If they succeed the US will continue to decay into a has-been country with delusions of grandeur. You can't be a superpower if China owns the farm. With this financial crisis, Europe is officially calling our superpower status over, and good riddance as far as they are concerned. So If we think we are so great we should start acting like it.

I am sure that lots of people here were psyched to see some red meat coming from McCain's side. They are into hollywood trailer politics. Kaboom. So pass the popcorn, and remember... if you want to live like a republican.... vote democrat.

I am from India and have been watching the campaign, the conventions and now this First Debate. I think Mr. Obama won this round. He had specific plans and was more articulate. He looked a better vissionary than Mr. Mccain. In this financial mess in the US that is the kind of person America needs & the World needs.

Ram

i think Obama got it. the old guy seems more like G.Bush third term.I think America needs some body who will bring her out of its bully attitude.Not respecting your opponent is a sign of weakness. For future debates somebody should tell McCain that he has to learn to respect his opponent.

Macain was very rude, very condesending, looked nervous! Like president Bush, he was fear mongering. Alot of things he said were not adding up. It seems he would say anything to get the votes. He represents Bush's failed policies of the last 8 years. He was a good soldier, a veteran but would be the last thing the US needs as a leader.

Whom ever votes for Macain over Obama, is certainly ignorent, uneducated and racist. And certainly a person, that doesn't mind another horrible 4 year term for Bush.

Neither won. They both don't deserve to be president. Period.

America, please do not repeat the mistake you made by electing Bush the last 2 terms. You can say that it was Bush who put America to where it is in the eyes of the World. But it was you who put him there.

I know that the majority of you don't really care about the rest of the world hence your acceptance of Sarah Palin inspite of her lack of foreign affairs knowledge. But believe me America, we can no longer look up to you for leadership if you continue to present to the world a President with John MacCain's attitude.

Good luck America.

- Naksam, Malaysia

After this debate, it has become clear who has the class and potential to become the next president – Obama. Seriously, I am not sure how some people are saying McCain answered all questions – all he did was tried to discredit Obama with misinformation which Obama quickly corrected or just talked about his aged old experience. Anyone with sanity and even a moderate educated background could identify Obama as the winner.

The ordinary Russian people have always been American allies. So am I.
I am surprised to see such a hate with regard to Russia as John McCain has just demonstrated. He said he is a Georgian. Not many people know
that the bloodies dictator of the Soviet Union was Joseph Dgugashvili (Stalin) – a a man from Georgia. Do we want it again? On a larger scale?

Obama takes the LEAD

This is all so ridiculous. The McCain gang says McCain won, and the Obama Gang says Obama won. All we all in 5th grade now?

Obama displays an end-to-end policy that McCain doesn't even start to understand. Barack doesn't just look at the implications of not winning in Iraq but weighs them against the total cost of this war, for example. McCain's appeal to sentiments is like the layer of chrome on a decade of failed policy he thinks to continue. I'm asking you: someone needs to get the country back on its feet and is McCain really up to the complexity of that task..? Stop dreaming: we need thought leadership here!

A good debater look each other eyes. Senator Mccain was fear.

Obama did really well on both the economic issues as well as on the forien policy. McCain was tough on Russia and Iran but Obama's prudent and well headed approach outclassed McCain's understanding and approach. At the end of the debate, Obama demonstrated maturity, integrity and what it takes to be a President.

If i was McCain i will pull out of this election just to avoid the big humiliation in November.

Why does Mcain use Obama's brain by copying his remarks? "You just don't understand." That is what Obama said before, " It's not that Mcain doesn't care; he just doesn't understand.
I also noticed "holocaust" and "Israel" comments thrown in lightly, to gain points.
With Mcain it seems to be clear it is all about winning and with Obama, it is all about being true to himself, to us, to the world we live in.

Obama could have done better. He had much better responses to the issues raised during the debate on the campaign trail.

Obama is much better at talking and speaking in general- McCain can not beat Obama at this game. Obama memorizes the speaches they write for him much better and is much more effective at delivering them. Talking is his game and this is in fact the only thing he can do. Some people buy it. Otherwise you shouldnt compare this Empty Suit with McCain. John is the real deal.

I thought Mc Cain was out of touch personally and otherwise. I am a republican but this time round I am going to vote for the right person to lead our country forward and on the evidence of Round 1 that will clearly be Obama. he made his points clearly and concisely and showed he thinks intelligently on his feet. Wheras McCain seemed irate at times and nothing short of a "Grumpy Old Man"

America needs a fresh start. Obama is the man of the hour: thoughtful, outreaching, statesmanlike in the best sense of the word. Despite all of McCain's capabilities and vast body of experience in domestic and international affairs, Obama personifies America's desire to lead again – by drastically changing the way executive power works in Washington. Obama's reflections on that come across as sincere, believable and doable. McCain, even though independent-minded, is entrenched in beliefs we have seen for the past eight years. Indeed, more of the same – in terms of political philosophy and strategic approach – would await us. My fellow Americans, wake up.

Over at Fox News 80% of those polled think McCain won the debate. So I suppose it's logical that about 80% of the CNN audience think Obama won.

It is obvious that Obama continues to do great with his job now as a presidential candidate and soon as a president of the most (still) greaest nation in the world.

If McCain can not look into the eye of his opponent, how the hell he will run this country without looking into the eye of the issue or the problems which his pary has put this whole county into over the past 8 years.

For GOD's sake Mr. McCain, just lay off. You are a loser.

Suraj, from India. Though sleeping at 2 in the night, i made sure I woke up at 6, to catch the debate. This election is not only about America, but about the whole world.

I grew up having respect and admiration for US, Regan, Clinton....great. Stories of Allied alliance in world war and fighting of communism. The last 8 years....killed all of it. I will not say a direct anger was there, but a sense of frustratation came in on how...HOW can US of A elect Bush a second time...and still not learn a lesson.

McCain...liked his attitude and Maverick nature and felt bad when he lost to Bush 8 eight years back. But today....the utter disrespect he showed to Obama....I don't believe it. Not evening looking and acknowledging his presence. If he does that....to Obama, I wonder how will he treat other world leader.

I do not want to live in such a world....and who knows where it will go. He keep saying "FIGHT WITH ME"..."FIGHT WITH ME"; I am scared World War 3 will start if he comes..necon or no necons...

I wish I could vote...but...all I will say..God Almighty bless all of us if McBush and Palin comes to power.

These debates matters little. Remember a debate Bush has against Kerry ? He couldnt utter a single word and just stared at you the whole 30 seconds he had. It was a debacle in terms of debate performance, but singnificantly, Bush went on to score a handy victory on the election day. The point was Kerry was not electable, did not inspire respect and confidence as a person and a statesman. You will see the same thing here- Obama is a glib talker and McCain lost the debate, but it will not affect his chances- Obama is not electable since he carries no weight, the empty suit as he is.

Here in the Philippines, when a person shows respect to others when there is disagreement or a sensitive situation at hand, the term that is used to describe this posture is called “delicadeza”. John McCain’s disdainful attitude toward Barack Obama revealed his utter lack of delicadeza, a quality essential to being a successful leader, even the president of the country. Content aside, McCain’s rude, condescending conduct in this debate trumps all other considerations.

Much to the consternation of many viewers sympathetic to Obama, his saying he was in agreement with McCain a number of times should not be interpreted as weakness; to the contrary, it was an reflection of Obama’s strength, confidence, generosity and sense of fair play. McCain, on the other hand, was too small to extend ordinary courtesies to Senator Obama.

Obama delivery wasn't as crisp as I hoped it would be. Nevertheless, he did well and was a real gentleman, as opposed to McCain's showing off names and places he had been, and yes THAT smirk!!

Here in the Philippines, when a person shows respect to others when there is disagreement or a sensitive situation at hand, the term that is used to describe this posture is called “delicadeza”. John McCain’s disdainful attitude toward Barack Obama revealed his utter lack of delicadeza, a quality essential to being a successful leader, even the president of the country. Content aside, McCain’s rude, condescending conduct in this debate trumps all other considerations. Much to the consternation of many viewers sympathetic to Obama, his saying he was in agreement with McCain a number of times should not be interpreted as weakness; to the contrary, it was an reflection of Obama’s strength, confidence, generosity and sense of fair play. McCain, on the other hand, was too small to extend ordinary courtesies to Senator Obama.

Obama WON! McCain was arrogant and conceited, he had no real grasp of the present banking crisis that Bush has put the entire world to. Obama is right when he blamed Bush, when Bush assumed office USA was in surplus, look what he has done, he has mortgaged the US citizens for life by making the US economy bankrupt to the tune of $ 11 TRILLION (not peanut) ably assisted by McCain making every US citizen to a debt of $85,000.

McCain repeated about Iraq success, why did America go in to Iraq on false premise claiming WMD and Al Quiada. Under dictator Sadam Iraq was stable with no sectarian killing. McCain failed to acknowledge that over one million innocent civilians have been killed after US troops went in to Iraq. Strangely the present calm in Iraq is also due to this hated Iran brokering a deal to end the sectarian violence and the Sunni’s turning against the Al Quaida, not just due to the surge.

McCain was dropping names of world leaders and cities whilst talking about issues on the surface and had no in-depth solution. I agree with Obama, you have to have an open mind when talking to these unfriendly nations, you cannot show Uncle sams arrogance if you want harmony. US must elect Obama if US citizens are to travel the world freely and be respected.

I live in the U.K. and as someone who has been interested in American politics for a very long time, I stopped up through the night to watch and listen to the debate. My verdict, McCain won it by a country mile!

I don't know what some people are talking about here... but it was clear that Obama simply did the blame-game on anyone he can point a finger to. I mean seriously, dude... he was asked about things he would do if he gets elected and there he replied with rants about the administration's faults.... and cleaning his hands that he was not part of anything wrong that ever happened in this government. Cut your spending too, dude. I mean, seriously, stop being self righteous. McCain on the other hand was being Presidential. He answered the questions with confidence and authority. Honestly I thought Obama would show loads on this debate considering his a great orator and all... but when you don't have the experience it simply shows.

Mr.Obama had passed his test and had shown that he is ready to be a commander -in -chief.

Mrs.Pelagie -M.Nsimba
Brentford
UK

I live here in Africa. Obama has done something good to our generation, he has inspired those of us who are scared to face those old f....l with old ideas. The American image has been damaged and the idea of Obama to dialogue should be the priority of the next president. if America need a Change then Obama is the MAN.

JIMMY
SOUTH AFRICA

I found myself completely comfortable, at this point with the strong character, leadership skills and ability to handle the issues, with John McCain. Absolutely no one can deny the more experienced individual was evident when both attempted to address the issues coupled with their personal and party beliefs. Having lived abroad for more the 13 years and consider myself to be somewhat liberal, I fully agree that the US position in the world has somewhat disappeared; however, I cannot imagine that the next 4 years will be anything but severely worse. It is for that reason that I must entrust our great nation into the hands of one who with calm and devotion will lead with experience and for the best interest of the USA. Congratulations John McCain you inspired me to vote for you.

For all of McCain's professed support for "the troops," didn't we send soldiers to Iraq without armor, and didn't the VA hospital debacle happen not too long ago? What about KBR outrageously overcharging for shoddy support for the troops on the ground, from food to ammunition? Having lived overseas for many years, I thought Obama's comment on how our status overseas has fallen was very important–and very much germane to the security question. McCain did not even register that one. I thought McCain looked old, tired and he sounded as if name-dropping was a substitute for substantive foreign policy. Another Washington facade!

McCain was disgustingly patronizing and hostile. He was unable to give a single answer without attacking Obama, who came off as gracious and generous-perhaps a little too much so. But his I.Q. points were obvious from across the room. McCain is simply another village idiot.

If McCain wins this election I will never watch T.V. news again, I don't think I could stomach it. The thought of Sarah Palin becoming president is too stomach turning to imagine and McCain has done the country not only a huge disservice but has betrayed us all with his insane pick.

Truly speaking, Americans has been blessed with that guy Obama, it really needs deep thinking. I was thinking that Mc cain's experience will play out, but it' all now confirms that experience is a teacher that that gives the examination first and the lessons afterwards. We all wish USA well.

I watched the debate in Nigeria with all the commentary between 2am and 4am. I believe one thing stood out for Obama is that America needs to relate better with other Nations or else they will be left behind. China is romancing the Africa Nations now; Russia is romancing Venezula and looking for new allies. America should help Iraq recover their infrastructure and get back to helping Nations all over the world to obtain Good Governance. America most vote for the future not the Past. Do not get emotional about this election. Vote for the right man who will present America in the future, because without the allies, you can not succeed in the 21st century. Weldone CNN, you are doing a great job!

Obama won clearly.... But anyway, if McCain becomes president and he should die during the next four years (and frankly, one can clearly see that McCain is an old man), then good night America.
Looking forward to the debate of the VPs, Biden will easily win against the christian extremist.

Obama was outstanding. He talked about what the majority of Americans wanted to hear. He made mentioned the fact that the middle income earners need to get a tax break and rather tax the wealthy. Mccain never mention middle income earners but all he was interested was his history and Bush style politics-isolation. Obama won hands down

am writing from frieburg germany . americans should know the rest of the world love them, for what they stand for, Deplomacy. the mistakes made by voting bush should not repect itself again by voting john .

whole world and america need OBAMA; he wone the debate totally.

I think Obama was better than Mccain and the fact also disclosed that being old doesn't mean that you are a foreign policy expert. No doubt that experience is good thing but it is not all you need, Barack is more like a president of US and he is going to win it.

McCain, learn to respect your opponent. Like you, he too has earned the right to be there at that podium. Humility is a virtue the current president lacks and looks like you ain't very different either.

McCain never mentioned people like me: a teacher who's bank just went under and has 2 kids to feed not to mention teach in an educational system that needs a lot of repair. McCain never mentioned the middle class and the struggles we face. McCain also seemed embarassed to be at the debate after announcing he would suspend his campaign. McCain touted his experience but surely it was Obama who demonstrated he has the good judgement to lead our country.

Also, a couple of minor details:
- McCain's voice seemed to quiver at times while Obama's was always steady
- McCain's facial expressions made him come across to me as a bit sneaky, kind of like one of my students.
- McCain gave long winded answers while Obama was specific and to the point.

I am an American registered to vote in the state of Iowa. I have always had a lot of respect for McCain and still do. However, McCain's stars do not look good according to Vedic Astrologyof India. I know how most Americans belittle Astrology and think of people who talk about it as "nuts" . But Vedic Astrology is perhaps the most accurate predictive system and yet perhaps least known/acknowledged in the western world. In 2000 it predicted that Al Gore would lose (when the polls actually had Gore leading Bush by several percentage points prior to the debates). So here is the prediction that was made some weeks ago about McCain and Obama.

" McCain will be his own undoing. His campaign will run into great difficulty starting 10/7/2008 when Mars Anthara starts. On Nov 2 Mercury paryanthara starts and both Mars and Mercury are aspected by Saturn (in transit in Leo which is McCain’s 12th house of Loss). Mars and Mercury and Sun happen to be in Libra in Transit. Lord of Libra is Venus who is in McCain’s 12th house (of Loss) in Leo in his birth chart. Hence McCain will be undone by a woman (could be his wife, running mate or someone else) because Venus represents the preceding folks. It will be most likely self-undoing because he would have chosen them to help him.

There is also a strong indication that between Nov 17, 2008 to February 3, 2009, Obama could face great danger to his life. But Jupiter with Saturn in his first house is a great protective force for him and he will most likely come through fine if anything untoward were to happen. "

McCain's foreign policy is based on lots of incorrect assumptions. Almost every quote he used from the President of Iran, was incorrect and all were lost in translation. It is dangerous for McCain to judge another president, without even having a dialog and professional translation! Let's understand and clearly understand what Ahmadinejad was saying, then convict him! McCain is ready to pull the trigger, just to get Jewish votes! It is best for Jews, blacks, whites, all, to make sure there is no miss-communication, before we pull any triggers or judge any one! Dialog FIRST!

Both candidates have some valid points of view and seem well intentioned and the differences are minor in their positions. But Presidents are about capability. In that light it would make sense if the loser in the election automatically become VP. Then at least, if the President has a problem, we could be governed by someone who pass the national test-by-fire and got 50+% of the vote, rather than being governed by an Alaskan nobody from nowhere who has never done anything of any national importance, or by a senator who, when exposed on the national stage, could not make it past the minor percentages. Better to be governed by the devil you know than by the hanger-on you don't. It is not that they are bad. It is that they are unproven and untested.

McCain talked fake, Obama talked human, senses and respectful, he won the debate. I think, the world is looking for a leader who can bring the world together in peace and prosperity. We do not want another Rascal. Obama is the Man for U.S.A and this planet as a whole

Stevo from Germany

Viewed from New Zealand, a non-American. Obama won hands down. McCain failed to actually have a policy other than dodge the disaster of Bush. McCain seems to think doing well in Iraq now is all that matters – Obama was right never to go in the first place. Both want to win in Iraq, both must win in Iraq, but only one had the foresight never to go in the first place – that shows the leadership we in the rest of the world want from you, the United States, and it must start with the President. McCain is just more of Bush.

I live in the UK. Having lived in USA in the past, when Bill Clinton won his first, and in UK when Tony Blair won his third, my opinion is: Obama won the debate. Yes, McCain scored a lot of points, and Obama could have and should have done better. But victory is winning votes, not arguments. The smirk, condescending tone, lack of eye contact, ...how many times Obama addressed 'John' and how many times McCain addressed 'Barrack'....so many negatives about McCain. And not a single one about Obama. If Obama made a mistake at all, it was that he lost a few points. History shows that it doesn't matter as much, not unless it is a killer blow, and none were.

I live in Australia. Not only was Obama more polite and courteous, he also made a lot of sense in what he said. I wish him all the best and feel that he will do a very good job as the next US president.

The best part was Obama urging to reclaim the moral authority in world affairs, like it was in the sixties when the US were leading the world, and none would've thought of launching terrorist attacks against the US.

So many around the world are disillusioned and have lost hope, especially those living in countries that are not democracies, and want to have a real role model to look up to.

Obama has that vision.

On overall demeanour, Obama won this round convincingly. He was "presidential" [whatever THAT means] whereas McCain came across as a white-haired new Nixon [the only thing missing was the five o'clock shadow!]

This is from Germany. Measured against my high expectations for Obama, based on his vita and his brilliant speech in Berlin, I was a little disappointed. In this debate, he never once–be it on the economy, security or whatever–presented the bigger issues. I would have been reassured if he had, like in Berlin, even once mentioned his intention to work cooperatively with US allies and to rely for his foreign policy on economic strength, diplomacy and multilateral approaches rather than just the military. I was also surprised that he showed himself totally unwilling to indicate whether and how he intends to reduce the huge American budget and external trade deficits.

As an aussie with more than a detached interest i found McCain to be condescending. As an ousider who sees America's international reputation in shreds i say you need a new beginning, a new republic, not an old ideas, old attitudes and old approaches. Sieze the day America.

Michael

Obama won hands down. He was calm, presidential and impressive. In such a time as this, America does not need a hot-tempered, grumpy old man who keeps harking back to his own past – we need someone who can keep his head – and yes, yes – someone who can LOOK THE ENEMY IN THE EYE!

I felt like the candidates were incredibly similar ideological. Much of their approaches to use of the military, diplomacy, and even economic issues differed only in minor areas. Its not like we were seeing a hawk vs. a peacenik, or a libertarian vs. a socialist. It was like watching Vanilla try to differentiate itself from French Vanilla. I'd like to hear some plans for economic and foreign policy that haven't been tried (and failed) already...

McCain all the way. Your Blog is definitely full of Liberal CNN Viewers who clogged the system with false Obama claims. Folks need to turn to other National News to arrive at a better assessment.

Mcain was like an old school teacher telling his students off and going back to his past experience. USA and the world is suffering because of the mistakes of the past. It is time to go foward with a fresh approach. It was distasteful and sheer arrogance of Mcain to keep repeating : "he does not understand" implying Obama's youth and thus inexperience. Current economic and political instability is because the Bush administration "did not understand" how to manage it properly. American voters do not thrust upon this world another republican of Bush era. Time to move on, time to change, bring in fresh face and ideas.

Dear American people. Sen. McCain is 72 years old. What? Seven two! Most people retire when 65 or even earlier. He is way, way over due. In fact, if he wasn't so egoistic, he would of course realize this himself. Why not enjoy a peaceful retirement? There's a great chance (or risk rather) that you will end up with Palin.

Obama Rocks... He is the man to lead the nation .. Around the world people have a good faith in his nature and apprence.
If america needs to get back on track it's deffnitely has to be Obama not that war Mac.

Barrack looked presidential , mature , even experienced . I expected McCain to do better but he did not.He just repeated typical republican lines even some were not true or applicable.I believe this debate would have quelled many mis-representations by republican ads.They are good at propaganda but sooner or later truth will be revealed.Bush won 2 terms by the same tactics . I hope dems are smarter this time.Barrack seem to be up.Mc Cain in contrast was argumentative picking on details to prove his points but it was cleasr that he is trying to make big issues out of nothing.Barrack addressed the bigger picture and was definitly better on economy also.His arguments on tax were convincing and exposed the lies of republicans.

I found McCain to be realistic and knows what is going on. It seems that McCain has an agenda but not Obama. I am not confident anymore that Obama can lead this good nation. It seems he just talk theory but worries me that when it gets to the point for action, he will fail us. I am a banker and I know that what is going on in our economy is the result of 5-10years of greed, selfishness and corruption by the high banking executives in the US. We have to be realistic and state the facts. We can't blame Bush for this, but the corrupted people that have been stealing from us. Yesterday, I thought that Obama will do good and win, but I was wrong. MaCain is a better leader for us.

And so what if Mccain looked fresh and sharp after having visited three cities or states in three days?If he wants to be president he must be ready to do much more than that!
Stop being partial CNN!!!
Obama won and hopefully he will be the new president!

I am in down under, i travelled the world and i for sure know who will do America proud and as he said reestablish amicable relations with the world including the muslim world. He is calm collected and highly
intelligent, he presented himself today as a respectfull down to earth human being not an arrogant super power war addict . America your man is OBAMA he is a leo a true leader he is the future not the past he is young and dynamic and full of ideas. He stood up to MacCain grandiose war ideations. McCain is too old and frale and the world hate the bush administration and anyone connected to it. Please elect Obama for our sake those who want peace and harmony in the world and only Obama will bring it. Felicitation Obama Bien fait. You won today you did very well.

Yes, it is right that McCain talked fake, he wants to use Isreal and Georgian to score poltical points. It is very clear that Obama will not seat down and fold his hands watching Iran attacking Isreal. Never! Every reasonable man will always use diplomancy first and military as the last options. Only mad men rush into war.

Hannah from Germany

I think McCain was trying to belittle Obama by repeatly saying "Obama doesn't understand." To me, he showed his temperamental side and being disrespectful. He talked only about the past and not about the future. Obama did very well on on level, even on National Security which is supposed to be McCain's strength.

I think the issues that are affecting people daily is Economy, Health Care and Education. Obama demonstrate a strong leadership in this issue.

We need a strong leader who cares about the average Americans and knows how to tackle many issues including the current financial crisis. Obama is definitely the kind of leader we need.

There was no doubt that Obama was better on the night. McCain was colorless, inarticulate and blunt. He showed desperation and was not relaxed. I score Obama 65% and McCain 30%.

McCain has shown again that he is extremely dangerous.

His response to everything in foreign policy seems to be bombs. Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, ... "Bomb Iran, without even talking to them"? What's next? Russia? China? Europe? Canada?

Unlike the countries Bush attacked, McCain's targets might actually be able to defend themselves.

If the way he treated Obama (totally condescending and respectless, he never once even looked at him) is any indication of how he will treat foreign leaders in talks once elected, we're certain to get war, trade boycotts and general disdain from anywhere but here.

I don't like "all suit and talk with nothing behind it" Obama, but after this debate, he is clearly the lesser of two evils.

I see a lot of posts about how McCain disrespected Obama in the debates. I believe every time he addressed him he called him Senator Obama. When Obama addressed McCain he would call him John. I had no Idea they were on a first name basis. How about a little respect for a mans position in life or at least your elders. I guess they don't teach that any more.

Brilliant debate. It was a shame to see McCain disrespect his opponent so much. I think that may be because he has so much to hide. Well done Obama, the next President

Both had deep flaws. That said, McCain is the most frightening with his far right wing politics wrapped in emotional irrational patriotism.

Invading oil rich Iraq has nothing to do with “American Freedom” as McCain emphatically stated…with over 600,000 deaths (according to the Lancet) as a result of the illegal (according to most legal experts) invasion– meanwhile many in Bush’s cabinet in power positions under Bush 1 and Reagan -and McCain- were perfectly happy with Saddam when doing his worst atrocities.

Nobody mentioned the fact that the military portion of USA taxes (when including “hidden costs”) now approach 50% of federal taxes. This is unprecedented and in fact decreases USA security. I’m in NZ where it is less than 4%...with reasonable public health care – like every other major democracy other than the US. And no one is threatening us.

there are no doubts that Obama much more better than mccain and this debate was just confirmation of it.

Obama clearly won the debate. McCain seem extremely insecure which is probably why he couldn't make eye contacts with Obama. McCain kept referring to the past when asked about foreign policy. Yes, he does have more foreign policy experience than Obama but after all those years in Washington, it has proven that McCain did not effectively put his foreign policy experience to good use. Let's not make the same mistake we did 8 yrs. ago.

I'm Peruvian, I saw the Debate on CNN. Although I consider myself an independent in the US elections, it is clear to me that Senator McCain's attitude clearly shows some sort of excessive pride on himself and his accomplishments.

He never looked at Obama, and even further, in a way I consider rude even, he laughed and smirked whenever something he didn't like was said.

Regarding the real issues, being a citizen of the world, I agree with Obama's plan for alternative energies, it's a plan different countries can mimic. Also, Bush's Foreign Policy has probably been the worse US Foreign Policy EVER, I believe Senator Obama can actually bring some (ironically enough) conservative back to the international relationships.

Finally, although we peruvians believe that Senator McCain's policies will be in our best interests (regarding free trade), I still believe Senator Obama's views and plans are better for the world itself.

They both sounded exactly alike. I despair for America. We deserve better choices. Looks like America is finished as a leader in the world. We no longer have strong leaders – just Hollywood style spin masters. Disgusting to even call the event a "debate". I plan to write in a choice as I could not possibly vote for either of these two.

Speaking as an Aussie who won't be affected much by the outcome of your election and can, therefore, be objective I would say that McCain won the debate on substance in the answers and viewpoints given but only marginally. McCain's negative was in his body language and failure to eyeball Obama. Obama's negative was his inability to concisely make his point. This made some of his policies appear to be not fully thought out.

I am a bit supprised at the responses here. As an international viewer from the Netherlands I thought the debate was quite even although McCain seemed slightly better. That does not necessarily make him a better president. However the comments here seem mostly of balance, I hope this is not representative of the CNN viewership. I always thought CNN had a more broad minded viewer base or maybe I am the one of base???

For any tactical execution to be successful you need a strong strategic vision, a foundational plan. Such a plan requires broad and deep insight to develop. We have had eight years with lots of execution in the wrong places and for the wrong reasons. Now, and I mean right now, we need a good "track" to get this "train" called the U S of A moving somwhere again. I feel Obama can build that track. The thought of the McCain and Palin ticket doing so scares me. As Peter Drucker said, "it is better to do the right things, than to do things right". I think Obama will do the right things and employ the resources needed to get them done right.

McCain wants new world order (also why he got Palin the Christian fanatic), Obama wants order in the US...
Obama was real and sincere in the debate...McCain is pretentious and tempermental...Really its Obama vs. Palin, since he probably will be senile in a few years and Palin will create the NEW WORLD ORDER based on her bibilical believes such as the world being sixty thousand years old...Bible GODS word, WOW....think before you die...

Let us wait for America to wake up Saturday and see what they will say. It is very clear since the debate ended that the World outside America is disgusted with McCain's condescending outlook during the debate. If America elects McCain it will mean that the majority of them appreciate his mibehaviour towards Obama and they will always be treated with apprehension on the International stage. McCain's behaviour was abominable and inexcusable! America, wake up from 'slavery legacy' and repent. Don't elect McCain, the World is watching you!

The MAN saw three letters in Putin's eyes.
Really ? So how is it that he does not see anything in his country ?
Is he too aggressive ? too power hungry ? or too old ?
But what is it that makes some people blind ?
Ignorance ? irresponsibility ?
Because, for one you would pay more taxes if you are not
in the upper 5% of the population.Calculate it,or see it on the web if you are doubtful.
So this is a football match for you ? And you find that the score is
that matters,and you even listen to McC (I see three letters) ?
Pour America !

I saw parts of the debate this morning and found Obama more dignified. I guess for McCain, his Fighter Pilot training teaches him to focus on the ONE target at a time & pursue this until it's knocked off the sky.
He carries this into politics. Shoot down the far inferior Viet plane & look for the next.
Right now, he is zeroed in on Obama. He caanot handle bailout & Obama at the same time. Good Luck USA.

Writing from Australia it is interesting to see the different views of the people from in the US and outside. I am from CA but here for a couple years for work. The biggest thing that I see is how liberal the mainstream US media really is. They want everyone to live in a utopian world that doesn't exist. If it did, Comunisim would be the choice of every country. In contrast, we live in the real world. The one thing I see is a proven track record vs inexperience. If you can get by the sound bites and look at who has the best tools to lead the country it is pretty obvious that McCain is the choice. I am not saying that all his ideas are better than Obama, but the majority are. That is what we need; the better leader. I worry that Obama will be more afraid of making a wrong decision at the worst possible time. I know some people don't agree, but some action is better than waiting around hoping the situation solves its self out; it won't. The last thing to consider is that Obama would not confront terroist or states who sponsor terror as McCain would. Even my 3 yr old understands that if there are no consequences, there is nothing to stop him from doing what is right. All I ask of people is they acutally go to the canidates websites and read thier postions. You can't tell from the commercials what they stand for.

Only a deaf and dumb human won,t see that OBAMA is the way forward for the USA. His plans have more light and vision.

I found Sen. Mc Cain's behaviour disrespectful, irresponsible and out of touch in comparison to Sen. Obama which was on the point, clear, and relevant to the question asked and we have no doubt that Obama is capable of what he is talking about unlike MacCain's lies and unrelevant accusitions. American people have had enough of politics of lies and bending the issue to their own interest and benefit.

obama definitely won this debate. additionally, he is qualified overall given his intellect, poise, openess to hear and his spirit. he is respectful and humble and at the same time a visionary with great courage and strength. whatever "weaknesses" or "inexperiences" he may begin with in whatever areas that may cause question, by his willingness to absorb the cries and concerns of the people nationally and internationally will cause his quantum leap in societal and political arenas necessary. he is hope to a troubled world overall!

I prefer Obama's idea to talk to people we do not necessarily agree with,like the President of Iran to McCain's refusal to talk.
I do not agree with McCain that talking to the President of IRan somehow gives that person credibility or recognition.
The reality is he IS the President of Iran and I would prefer the US President to sit across the table from him and tell him, face to face, eye to eye, that if he ever get close to getting nuclear waepons or attacks Israel; he and his country will answer to the U.S.
On the other hand the U.S. stands ready to assist Iran with peaceful development and is happy to enter into a security pact with Iran; providing Iran accepts the right of Israel to exist. I believe such a face to face meeting could be very productive.
I give the debate to Obama.

John McCain came back from Washington with empty hands – his Republican colleagues don't know what to do with the rescue package. So much for the influence of a 'maverick' who voted with Bush on most issues. Barack Obama wants to rebuild the economy from the bottom up, not wreck it from the top down.

Hey Senator McCain, I was so moved by your bracelet story that I totally lost track of the rest of your answers...could you repeat yourself without the bracelet bit? McCain uses familiar emotionally charged techniques to lull hyperpatriots into suspending logic in order to get them to side with him, even at the cost of finding a good solution to the massive issues that America faces. Shame shame shame.....If we get another 4yrs of the same stuff, then it will be certain that everyone has been fed Crazy Pills for the last 8 years in America.

Both candidates made(rather committed) a grave geopolitical mistake
It is not Iran,Iraq or Afganistan that pose a real threat to USA interests
The relation between Russia and the west alliance will shape the course of events globaly and locally during at least the next decade
or for many decades to come.Antagonising Russia by extending Nato
to its borders and by this absurd anti missile shield in eastern Europe
will lead to :
First :a costy and dangerous arm race which will swallow resources
badly needed for health care,education and othe welfare badly needed
programs
Second:Russia can-and it started already- to make life really
difficult for usa and the west alliance in all hot issues from Iran
to Afganstan and Iraq and recently in South America.
It seems to me that we can understand the position of the two candidates only in the light of the warning of General Eisenhour in his farewell speech(Jan 1961) agaisnst the the military industrial complex and its
threat to the national american intersts

Both had deep flaws. That said, McCain is the most frightening with his far right wing politics wrapped in emotional irrational patriotism.

Invading oil rich Iraq has nothing to do with “American Freedom” as McCain emphatically stated…with over 600,000 deaths (according to the Lancet) as a result of the illegal (according to most legal experts) invasion– meanwhile many in Bush’s cabinet in power positions under Bush 1 and Reagan -and McCain- were perfectly happy with Saddam during his worst atrocities in the 80’s.

Nobody mentioned the fact that the military portion of USA taxes (when including “hidden costs”) now approach 50% of federal taxes. This is unprecedented for most of the world 9but not in the USA) …and in fact decreases USA security. I’m in NZ where it is less than 4% so there is enough revenue for reasonable public education and health care – like every other major democracy …other than the US. And no one is threatening us.

No controversy Obama won the first round.
Despite Mcains arrogancy, Obama maintains
his cool.

Vote for Obama and you make America proud.

Vote for M'Cain and you got what you deserve

I didnt watch the debate and didnt need too since i knew all along what would be the outcome. American choose wisely....

Again its a choice for the americans as GOD said in the bible l lay before you life and death choose but God advice choose life thatn you may live so AMERICAN choose obama that the world may come to you again for leadership if not China and Russia goes ahead for ever

The debate was not a stunning victory for either but it did show who is the better candidate. What sort of person do we want in the White House? Someone who thinks before he acts (Obama) or someone who jumps straight in (McCain)? Do we want a dignified head of state and leader of the free world with a running mate who knows the ropes (Obama/Biden) or do we want somebody reliving in the past with a running mate who believes everything is God's will, just as Muslims do (McCain/Palin)? The debate made it very clear that McCain's platform is to attack Obama. It's his favorite topic.

Obama displayed the characteristics of statesmanship and a true leader by being gracious in times of conflict. McCain showed that he is no more than a street politician with his sniggering, disdainful and patronizing remarks. Imagine McCain and Ahmadinejad in the same room! No wonder McCain cannot even tolerate the idea of sitting down to talks with countries such as Iran and Cuba.

McCain demonstrated,once again,his dreadfully poor judgement evident in his appalining choice of Palin,in most of his responses to the issues raised during the debate.It is high time he realised that mutual respect is the first precondition for any diplomatic negotiation with any country.McCain, rather unfortunately, clearly intends to be domineering and bullish in his relationship with the rest of the word.This posturing is potentially counterproductive and catastrophic.His condescending demeanour to Barack throughout the debate is a shame considering his age.America and indeed the whole world should brace up for another four years of fear and war mongering and economic doom with this geriatric bully at the helm in Washington.God bless America!

No Doubts, McCain !! by far. Obama was good learning by heart, McCain KNOWS !!

I believe that both McCain and Obama will be able to handle the job as the president of the USA. However, in the long run, Obama would be a better one as he is looking forward to the future while McCain keeps looking backward. To make USA strong and to retore its reputation need to look forward, not just to live a day at a time. Obama really focus on eduation and scientify development and to compete in the world of tomorrow, like competing with China, the future super power on the rise.

Obama´s agreeing with McCain when he could is seen as weakness only by people who have no idea of the essentials of successful communication. What does not work with a John McCain because he knows no subtelty will work very well with the leaders of Europe and other Nations.
One can see how Obama would not appeal to the typical rough gun – toting redneck.
But would you like the typical redneck to be on top of the world?

Sen McCain spent so much time crying and stagnated on past events as if they happened yesterday. He didn't display a clear vision for the future, did not articulate a clear plan on how the country got into the mortgage mess we are in now and how does the Congress resolve the debt. He still dwells on the $10 billion/month plan in Iraq but yet angrily debates an $18 billion earmark of which both parties are guilty. Now, here we are, $600 billion later and 6 +yrs in Iraq and the fundamental issue of Al Qaeda and Bin Ladin are stronger and more resolved today than they were 6 yrs ago. Sen McCain spent so much time talking about the war that the financial crisis existing today didn't make it on to his radar scope. I can well imagine the continued spiraling down debt he would get us into into other regional conflicts.
It is more clear to me that the McCain plan and vision is dimmer than I thought, that the pick of a VP was clearly a sexist move to get the female vote (and those dumb enough to vote on sexual persuasion and not facts have my condolences). The GOP dwelled more on golden parachutes in congressional debates than the GOP gave interest and prep to McCain on for the Presidential debates. I am more convinced now after seeing Sen Obama, who appeared more calm and presidential in the debate seems to be ready now to be the next President and McCain can return to Arizona and draw more earmarks for his state. McCain seemed more unsteady, easily angered, more ruffled in a debate than a President will ever face when in the position. Do we want a child-like temper tantrum demonstrated in the Oval office? Did I enjoy a political grand stand when McCain stated he was suspending his campaign? No- it was an act of a desperate, ill advised, poorly supported GOP campaign! McCain is in his final act before departure to Arizona. McCain had to score big and by a sizable margin to win the vote and he failed miserably. His grand stand acts, his condescending comments, his lack of a vision for the country, his reliance to eras and military service 45+ years ago and and in the debate not mentally fixed on current events make the pick of a GOP candidacy for our country a very poor choice in 2008.

hmmmmm.Americans voluntarily voted for Bush TWICE.TWICE.

wow. I am afraid this will be done again.The Bushcain out-of-touch-

with -reality who looks small and meagre in both thoughts and action.

I'm not from USA & was glad to see McCain's reasonable performance and that Obama did not dominate the debate too much.

Four more years of Republican rule & continuous economic slow-down, steady U.S. dollar devaluation & military stretching tin occupying two countries with a possible third war against Iran or an other real or imagined foe is the best medicine against American unilateralism & arrogance.

Body language and language used were definitely impotant especially when you talk in front of people. I believe Mc Cain failed on these. It's either he hate Obama so much that he doesn't want to look at him or he was not telling the truth. Even the languages he used was so negative " kill..... terminate" . Is this how he sees the future? It cannot be denied that he fought for USA and he should be given credit for it. Just as we honor the others who fought and are still fighting, we give him honor. However, I think Mc Cain should let go of his bitterness as he keeps on talking about the past memeories. He should make use of this to guide him in his present life.

As to Obama, he handled himself with respect and communicated his piece well but I believe that he should have given a liitle spark when he was stressing an important point..........just a little spark

Overall...........Obama definitely won this debate.

The choice is simple : between yesterday and tomorrow.
Yesterday is a very cranky old man, tomorrow is a bright,intelligent and articulate young man.
The entire world is waiting for Obama.

McCain came off as disrespectful and grumpy old man, and focused way too much on trying to make Obama look bad, also relying on his old stories a little too much. Obama had the character and presence of what we need as a president.

An elemental and basic sign of HONESTY and SINCERITY is EYE CONTACT, we don't need a bully as a leader that is trying to scare the rest of the world, we need one that WE can trust, one that is trusted and respected also by the rest of the world, able to reestablish the strong alliances we had in the past and doing that is also able to bring back peace. From the beginning, the handshake establishes a difference between Obama and McCain.
And after all with all the so call experience he said he has, does he think that he can go bullying around the world scaring leaders, he’s living in the past, now the press of a few bottoms can destroy the world in a few hours. Those that want war think McCain, if we want to be stronger trusted and respected in peace the answer is Obama

We are not fools and never would comply with another for years of fraud instead of change.....We Want Change this Time....Obama is gonna give if to us...Republicans have defrauded the states ,What a pity on American ..We remain the World Greatest if Obama Wins ..cus war doesn't solve problems..it adds to it

All of you who are saying “I'm appalled at McCain's behavior towards Obama” are a bunch of hypocrites. What about the behavior against Sarah Palin? Obama would be good vice president no doubt, but only under an experienced president. CNN and a lot of other media fakes are the only ones promoting Obama, oh and not to mention most of the black Hollywood wannabe politicians. If there were going to be a successful black president in office it would be Colin Powell or Condoleezza Rice. They would have had my vote because they have “experience”. Don’t begin to use our government as a scapegoat for all of America’s misfortunes. Americans are quick to put their hand out but don’t want to fix the problems on their own. No matter who gets into office, they will be blamed for anything that happens on their watch. Come on wake up! If you want to lay blame for the economic situation blame the oil industry. If you want something done about that, then start doing something yourself like car pooling, farming off your land, installing solar and wind power sources. You don’t need the government to start it for you, get on it!! Let’s get back to the basics that made us the most powerful country in the first place!!

Jake from TX

Here in Lebanon we are terrified of wars. We've had enough.

people here are all following the Mcain – Obama elections carefully.

We truly hope that democrats win because they showed great diplomacy in handling the foreign policy issues.
Believe me the Bush years were Hell to the Middle East, and we are praying (both Christians and Muslims) for Obama to win!

Go Obama! No more wars, no more killing!

I thought its becoming more and more clear that Mr Obama is all gab and no content. If the Americans actually voted for George Bush twice and feel sorry about it, the last thing they want to do is now vote for Obama. Obama keeps asking the question do you want 4 more years similar to the 8 yrs of Bush and actually if people vote for Obama they are assured of just that giving power to a man who does not know what to do with it.

America.
What if Obama is a terrorist in a sleeper cell. Once Presedent he can push all the nuclear buttons and destroy America.....what if?????????

Vote McCain he fought for you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

How do you measure a good president? Someone who is ready to listen to his people, offers good judgments, recognises potential threats and act to prevent its occurence, someone who display a brilliant sense of stability, someone who is ready to listen to everyone and someone people can rely on. Or someone who is ready to confront anybody even its own fellow citizens when they dont agree with his ideology, someone who believes that agression is the solution to every problem, someone who think the economy is ok even when the whole country is groaning, someone who is think so many years of experience of fighting war is what is needed to be a leader. Ask yourself, whom do we need, David or Goliath ?

Senator McCain sounded as if he was afraid too openly say on
the record that he would do whatever it took too bring those responsible
for 9/11 to justice:IE" OSAMA BIN LADEN"!

For being such a maverick it also looked like he was afraid too
look Senator Obama in the eyes, I don't know how too interpret
that kind of body language from someone who could be our next
POTUS.

John Looked like he showed up too play bingo,Barack showed
up to let the world know enough is enough Americas Back!!

it will be better for my country, even for the world. Obama should be next U.S president.

i think obama won,i analyzed all points made by both candidates,clearly obama won by a wide margin.is time for americans not to make another costly mistake,vote for the right canditate

It was a very distasteful experience to see that Mr. McCain

didn´t look at Mr. Obama at any time during the debate as if

he wasn´t worth it, he even smile´d scornfully ! I hope this isn´t

racism or alike, it was very unpleasant to see !

Regards,

G.Sylwander

Eight years of G Bush and another four years of McCain, may God help America. It is becoming increasingly difficult for the Americans to go abroad on holiday (Europe, Latin America, Middle East, far East,,Africa etc ) and claim to be Americans without fear of verbal abuse or personal attack. I pity the families of innocent people and american soldiers killed in Iraq. Common sense should tell the American people and McCain that they will never win the war in Iraq because they should not have been there in the first place. US must elect Obama who appeared to be more knowledgeable and much more clever. McCain should go on a tour to Europe and we will see the number of people who will come to listen to him. A lot of people see him as Bush's twin brother, they will welcome him with protests.

Jeez. McCain showed he had knowledge and experience, while Obama showed he had intelligence and a vision - intelligence enough to ask the right questions and make good judgment. McCain also sounded like he has a love affair with General Petraeus, which leaves me to ask why didn't he pick the general as his running mate?

I think Senator Obama did much better in general.
I particularly liked his attitude in contrast to Senator Mccain's.
It seems like Senator Mccain thinks he would look stronger, tougher and bold if he says Senator Obama doesn't understand what is going on. I don't think a Presidential candidate who would usually have the smartest people around him to give advices doesn't understand a situation his opponent is thinking. Of course, both candidates would know where their oppenents are coming from and what are their policy directions. Senator Mccain just seemed arrogant.
On the contrary, Senator Obama said I agree with Senator Mccain and Senator Mccain is right when Senator Mccain said the obvious things. Of course administration should take responsiblity. Senator Obama knows how to show generousity and respect his debate counterpart. Senator Obama looked like he was getting advices from one of the most experienced person in a particular field to help his work as a President. I think Presidents should be open minds and have ears to hear other's opinion too. It was disappointing to see Senator Mccain like that ... I thought he was a much better person than that. But Senator Mccain did surely seem more experienced in securities issues but with a mind set back in the old days.

i didnt watch the debabte, but from the clips,it is obvious that Obama and McCain did trash out some issues. But in my opinion, Obama is the man to lead the United States of America to greatness.

It really wouldnt matter as American Foreign policy has never ever changed, based on injustice support to israel. None of them commented on illegal occupation of Israel.

Obama won on all counts! McCain appeared to be a frightening mix of George Bush and Dick Cheney. What a disaster it would be to have McCain win and run the country and then die midway through, which statistically is likely to happen, and then that dimwit Palin take over. Of course the Republican party has already considered this. "Let's put someone in who can act as a puppet." You can be certain, Dick Cheney was in on that decision. Let's make as clean a break as possible from the Bush and Republican party. They have humiliated us in front of the world and stolen our money as well.

As always, McCain regurgitates Obama's lines: He doesn't undertand. That is exactly what Obama said on the campaign trail, "It's not that McCain doesn't care; he just doesn't know."
Why does McCain do that? Because Obama is so smart? McCain needs to use Obama's brain?
All of his points in the debate are the ones he learned from Obama months ago and only recently started using. Thank God we Americans are better educated and connected nowadays and we will elect the best president fit for a global world, who has the persuasive skills, intelligence and vison and instinct, and who takes the time to think before sending my son to war. One who has the intelligenceMcCain has repeatedly shown himself to be cheap and also desperate to win and will do anything that I think even the, "non college educated white women, that the conservatives were counting on to vote Palin will see through their campaign and vote Obama/Biden
Best take:
Obama: No soldier dies in vain. Not when they are doıing their duty to their country....

I thought McCain succeeded in showing Obama's inexperience and naivity.

I pulled an all-nighter here in Jordan so I could watch this kick-off debate from 4am till 7am. The workd has never needed to keep such a close eye on the US & it's policies as it does now.

The Global Impact of these elections will be as far-reaching as the election of Bush has been devastating both to America as Nation & to the perception of Americans in general.

We are faced with a potentially Global domino-effect Economic Crisis, unextinguishable wars in the Middle East, Famine in the Developing Worlds and accelerating unjustifiable acts of Terrorism.

Never before have we needed the US to step up, bite the bullet, change policy, act diplomatically towards other nations, respect other cultures & religion and truly LEAD by example.

MCain came across as the condescending, bullying dictator he is. If America – God forbid – repeats the Bush mistake of electing an incompetent "leader" with tunnel-vision and illusions of white supremacy then I am almost certain the outcome will be increased War-Fare, Terrorism & suffering.

MCains lack of communication skills, avoidance of eye-contact & negative body language show that – despite his "fighting" rhetoric he is actually intimidated by Obama!

WAKE-UP AMERICA – this geriatric will spell nothing but more doom & gloom for you externally as he shirks his role in effective Foreign Policy making (which he proposes to conduct telepathically!) and internally as he molly-coddles the rich & rewards the excesses of corporate America!

Have no fear: I assure you that NEITHER candidate will act in the interests of the Arabs in the Middle East as both will continue to worship at the pedastal of Israel however Obama seems to be the lesser of two evils since at least he is open to talking to his 'enemies' !

Can you face another 8 years of McBush and his side-kick Barbie? It will make you the laughing stock of the world!

The whole world is waiting with bated breath for this US elections. As we become more and more a global village, decisions taken in the US will in some form affect us all. Mc Cain and Palin conjure images of a bad horror movie for many of us. In his first debate, Mc Cain was condescending towards Obama by not looking at him, and his smirk was very childish. Obama, on the other hand was very statesman-like, the kind of person who will help the US regain its respect on the world stage. Mc Cain represents old politics; he is an old man with no vision who is trying to grab power through lies and war mongering tactics. Reminds me of some third world leaders who would do anything to hold on to power! Wake up America, vote not just for yourselves, but for future generations as well as the rest of the world!

While this wasn't a knockout night for either side and both candidates played it all very cautiously, Obama clearly emerged as the most competent, forward-thinking, informed, engaged, and prepared candidate. In short, he looked presidential, in the tradition we haven't seen for a long time.

McCain's obvious contempt for Obama, illustrated by his condescending tone, his patronizing remarks, and refusal to even look him in the face or engage directly with him in debate, made him look angry, desperate and furiously out of date. His repeated emphasis on "leaving with honor" may please a few vets, but that kind of bullish, outmoded thinking is counter productive at best, and at worst, very dangerous. A potential armageddon could arrive by way of an aggrieved Jihadi with a suitcase, and the old-school Vietnam way of fighting and winning wars is making us more vulnerable and in no way safer.

I would imagine the majority of those saying McCain won the debate are already McCain supporters. Ultimately it doesn't matter whether the Democrats are saying Obama won or Republicans are saying McCain won. The main issue, of course, in what those swing state independent voters on the fence thought, as they will be deciding the election. I would guess from what I've seen tonight, that those in favor of a more competent, intelligent, and forward-thinking candidate will go with Obama from watching this debate.

As an American living abroad I've seen the diminishing standing of the US first-hand over the last seven years. People need to realize this election is not just about the US, but has huge effects on the world stage. All of us simply cannot afford 4 more years of incompetence

McCain made me feel at times of being tucked into bed and being told a nursery story. Obama was more lucid.

The debate has been well from both presidential hopefuls but on the whole, Mr Obama Barrack has been more charismatic, more accommodating, more professional therefore I give it to Obama.

John McCain kept on emphasizing that Obama does not concede that the surge has succeeded but i haven't heard McCain concede that the decision to invade Iraq was wrong.

Didn’t you see any mistakes? Really? Wasn’t using the phrase Iranian “republican guard” instead of “revolutionary guard” a gaffe? As an Iranian, I had thought at least McCaine -a man of national and international security- should know about the difference between republican guard of Iraq which was demolished after Saddam Hussein and revolutionary guard of Iran that is now a matter of debate!!!

Even a dumb person would know that mccain trashed obama hands down in this debate.obama was very and annoyingly unknowledgable about this topic. What a pity! Asanansi – Nigeria

if McCain and Palin win the elections , we need to relocate to another planet

Barack clearly won the debate. Foreign Policy & National Security were the issues for this debate. The candidates clashed on whether or not to sit down and talk with aggressive foreign leaders.
For many non-Americans, it has been very frustrating during the Bush administration that America did very little to give foreign leaders the chance to even make their case. Disagree? I just remember the South Korean leader coming as the first foreign guest of George W. Bush in 2001, well before 9/11. Bush just said to him that his policies of trying to improve the relationship with North Korea should end: he called it nonsense!
This attitude is the core issue here and this is what Obama promises to change: listen and talk. It is a sign of strength, not of weakness. The American president doesn't need to put conditions on the table that the other side has to accept: he can make his position very clear during the meeting.
Affirmative corrective action can always follow. It is just much easier to create alliances against dictators when you give them a fair, visible chance to make their case. After the talk(s), if America is right, it can prove it and rally its allies for the right cause.
That approach will surely and swiftly improve the opinion of many foreigners about America and Americans. And more importantly: it will reduce the chances of extremists, not only Muslims but also others, to blame America indiscriminately for everything that goes wrong in their own countries, due to their own wrong policies.
That's why we need Obama and not the candidate who lives in the past. Obama clearly looks at the future and sees and understands what is needed.
Any experience he lacks he will build up fast. Bush was not prepared for 9/11. Kennedy was not prepared for the nuclear missile crisis. How could they be? There is no training for civilians in this field. But they acted. And he will not be alone but have a broad circle of good advisors around him, like any president can create. Nobody can do it alone. But the vision and principles he has are right. And the world is yearning for this vision!

I am totally turned off by McCain's abuse of the truth again and agian when he assigns a position to Senator Obama that has already been discounted dozens of times. It very much reminds me of the justification tactics that President Bush used for the invasion of Iraq. Little white lies got us into quite a mess a few years ago and for sure I do not want to elect someone that thinks Little lies are OK as long as it is me telling them.
I have been a lifelong Republican voter but this year I am not even considering hiring another truth stretching person to represent me. I am tired of the truth stretching and outright distortions.

Obama won the debate hands down now it is on to the born again truth stretching lady to follow in the lead of her boss.

I think Obama came across as the more credible candidate. Being in the UK – I only wish these same debates and leadership choices were being offered locally. I disagree with comments stating that Obama should be less polite – he clearly distinguished himself as more of the type of leader that absolutely should be the face of future America. If Americans don't know that, more the pity.

As a lifelong Republican I was very disappointed in John McCains performance. I found Obama far more credible on every subject and far more believeable.

I also thought that Obama displayed genuine respect for his opponent whereas McCain seemed to disdain Obama and even seemed peeved at times to even have to be there.

McCains interjecting himself into the deliberations in Washington with all that theatre was a big negative for me. He obviously didn't play any meaningful role or I'm sure he would have touted it big tome last night.

After seeing Sara Palin's interview with Katie Couric if I were McCain I'd get on the phone pronto and beg for Romneys forgiveness and get him on the ticket in her place. After seeing that embarrassing performance I just hope that Joe Biden feels some pity for her???

I came into the debate wanting to be convinced to vote for McCain, but came out of it convinced to vote for Obama.

IMHO- Ross Berg

If McCain loves his country, he will pull out of this election.
Obama won this debate.

Mccain already knows he is a loser and out of the presidential race.So, he wouldnt mind calling Obama "stupid",naive and all sort of names.for heavens sake,is the presidency a do or die affair?.Is this country first or Self first?

Obama definitely had the upper hand and won the debate. McCain should do everyone a favour and pull out of the election – not to mention his choice of a 'vice president' – (scary)
cant wait to see how that will be "justified"

As a possible future president of the USA, John McCains derisive,
condescending , almost an audible smirkish attitude left me
questioning how world leaders could possibly be warmly received by
Senator/ future president McCain when so much will be required to
bring togerther the peoples and their leaders of our world community.
From defence, national debt, education, health care , etc, through to;
but, no less , is the regaining of respect and the esteem of many nations ; to the cooperation and cooperative efforts of ALL people of the Us.to elevate themselves while being guided infomed and supported by BARACK OBAMA . McCAIN is living in the past even past the last 8 Bush years. You cannot go forward when the Mc Gears are in reverse!!!!! Obama is the FUTURE going forward into the 21st century,

This was a sad McCain performance to have to sit and watch. What a bitter and confused person he has become. If I was scared before of him becoming the leader of this country I'm terrified now. I've always said that age or experience never equals wisdom or intelligence. This has never been more true with this hateful, lying and manipulative man. He spurted out so many lies about Obama last night, it was just too much to stomach for me. On the other hand, each criticism that Obama had of McCain was not denied, only met with a little smirk.

Hi I am an Australian and we down under are watching the race for President with great interest.
It seems to me that Obama will make a fine balanced President I hjope for the sake of everybody that America looks to the future and not the past .
You all have the opportunity to elect a decent man either way .
Pilot

Both candidates did a good job of answering the questions and made very good points. However, McCain showed the obvious dislike of Obama, the one CNN commentator mentioned before the debate. He was vary arrogant and what was this constant "you don't understand" or the long emotional stories? He made his point that he has experience, but he also showed a lack of ability to look at new situations and make a judgment. His rhetoric sounded very "Cold War" at times.

I did not agree with Obama at times, and McCain made some very good points, and on the issues both showed competence. However Obama showed more ability to consider all options before making a decision.

I have liked McCain in the past and respected him, but my respect is waning fast.

As a side note: Did anyone pay attention to the graph at the bottom of the page? I had the feeling that there were no Republicans taking part, because the line hardly moved. It stayed always a tick above positive.

Well, we all had expected McCain to really pull off the foreign policy thing everyone believed he is strong at. But, that did not happen and it made me wonder is it the media which puts this foreign policy crown on his head when he doesn't really have it all together. With that said, i think Obama carried himself very well, he had alot of respect for Mccain and i think alot of voters gave Obama points on the fact that he was detailed on the points he wanted to put across. He was the winner for the night everyone could see that, like i said i guess being the focuse was on foreign policy alot of people thought it would be a knockout for McCain but he was no near even a draw when it came to that.

The only way McCain engaged with Obama was by saying 'What Senator Obama does not understand...' he said this catch-phrase so many times I stopped counting. I found it condescending and down-right rude. This contrasted strongly with Obama, who often referred to McCain by his first name also, and with respect and aplomb.

In terms of substance, McCain said very little other than anecdotes of the past, and appealing to emotional language such as 'love' for the veterans and referring to the fact the American people 'know me well'. Obama was all about the substance and a clear plan – clearly the better man and the better candidate.

If Mc Cain promises a better leadership for United States, why not elected as a candidate against BUSH in previous elections?

It means, American people (including republican voters) believe (and believed) that Mc Cain is WORSE than Bush.

I also did't like Mc Cain's attitude towards Obama, avoiding eye contact and continuously talking about Obama's doings and not doings. He should have explain HIS plans, not Obama's.

Mehmet from Istanbul, Turkey

I thought that the debate was fair and well ballanced. Both Sen. McCain and Sen. Obama had ample opportunity to work their respective strong points, which I think they both did very well. Sen. McCain took every opportunity to jab at Sen. Obama by working the boundries of truth to their absolute limits. I think he came off looking totally sarcastic, dishonest, and petty. Sen. Obama, although inexperienced, once again has shown his abulity to handle himself with grace and dignity in the face of ignorance.

obama won on all issues. To be a military superpower you must be econmic superpower as well. If America concerntrate only in iraq then china and russia will overtake them economically and eventually militarily. I agree with obama that fix the economy, involve others and engage the enemy diplomatically. this will reduce the chance of war and where it is unavoidable then the cost will be low because other allies will get fully involved.
throughout the debate mcain was only attacking obama trying to scorn him according to the body language. that is the attitude that makes other people hate america. Even if you dont agree with somebody be respectful as obama showed.

I found Obama to be in control and thoughtful in his responses. Clear, calm, collected. He dealt with McCain's snide remarks, rudeness and undermining very well, and this is the person we want on the world stage. Someone who treats their adversaries with respect and dignity without losing hold of their command of the task they've undertaken to thrash out a problem. As far as someone's comment earlier on McCain keeping his body turned away from Obama signalling predominance – I disagree. That was rude and unstatesmanlike, and is an indication of McCain's likely behaviour in tricky diplomatic situations. Obama engages and McCain isolates and disrespects.

As far as the answers to the questions went, for me Obama was head and shoulders over McCain. Factcheck have proven that McCain was devious, untruthful and misrepresentative. That's not to say that Obama didn't make the odd gaffe – he did – but balanced against each other Obama was solid in his facts, figures, responses and knowledge. What I heard from McCain was the old talking points – and his frightening temper simmering beneath the surface. I thought it quite telling during the discussion on Iran, quite how close to an anger outbreak McCain was – practically spitting out the name Ahmadinejad when he couldn't pronounce it properly the first time.

I don't know whether you can 'win' this debate – but for me Obama satisfied the requirements to present facts, deal with an adversary, and cope with a stressful situation. McCain simply antagonised me.

I stayed up to watch the debate in London.

I was astounded by McCain's hostility towards Obama. I am surprised that he has the reputation for reaching across party lines. I don't see this man reaching out to anyone when he can not communicate effectively with his opponent during a debate. I don't like his attitude at all. He came across as a bully whose only goal was to intimidate Obama.

And that smirk made him appear as if he felt insulted to debate an 'inferior' being. This is ironic since intellectually, McCain came across as out-of-touch with the new and important developments of the modern world. He would only lead America into more wars.

I'd vote for Obama if I could. He looked sincere and showed great respect to McCain in a situation where he could also have flung insults and played dirty. I applaud Barrack Obama; he is my hero. I hope my children grow up to have his healthy dose of respect for fellow human beings!

I was a staunch McCain Supporter, but after watching The debate, my opinion has been changed COMPLETELY! I would wish a Calm, Composed and clear headed President of the United States of America. McCain was far from this. If McCain gets to the White House, prepare for another War. He has no respect for divergent opinions or stand to be corrected. this is the same attitude the bush administration has always fronted.

Not looking at Obama, even once during the debate, was in bad taste and it goes to show how little respect McCain accords his "perceived adversaries" -Obama. McCain's tone was overbearing, lecturing and lacking in factual substance, this is not the spirit of change that majority of American desire.

I think McCain will further isolate America from the rest of the world.

OBAMA WINS !!!!

Obama won and will win !!!

I am an international viewer, as you know the world is watching the US election, I follow this every day. I must say after some deliberation I am convinced that Obama is the man. I supported Hillary during the primary simply because I think she is extremely competent. As soon as that was done I started looking at Obama. He was strong, clear and precise during the debate last night. John McCain was also good but I found his quite condescending and it seems like tell the full truth is not as important to McCain, Palin and their campaign on a whole. I hope the US voters make the right decision since what happens in the US affects us all. Obama would be a President the the US can be proud of.

McCain's failure to ever look at Obama was rude and childish. That also made for a somewhat formal debate with the moderator rather than with each other–as it was supposed to be. Maybe that was rove's instruction to John.

FORECLOSURES – BAILOUT! Here's some real truths. Ive been involved in BUYING and SELLING foreclosures for 18 years. I sick up to my ears hearing its some presidents fault. The hundreds of people Ive talked with over these years – the ones losing their homes – they all admitted.....ALL OF THEM....they bought to much JUNK. Extra cars, a new boat, jet ski's, computers they didnt even use, starting some wild and crazy business venture – a gamble, paying off all their debt – then aquiring more by not tearing up their credit cards, divorce – one of the spouses – usually the woman taking all they could and leaving it up to the men to deal with it.
THIS BAILOUT – is a quick fix – but people are people and it want change a thing concerning greed. People will keep spending more than they make, make foolish decisions and keep losing their houses.

Hey Jay,

Were you watching the debate and if so what were you smoking when you did? McCain was stammering, stuttering, constantly talking off topic, and twice I actually think he forgot where he was. Obama answere concicely and in a non condescending manner. There was not compairison here at all a bitter, hate filled, old war monger vs. an intelligent, openminded, and yes somewhat inexperienced man.

Afer watching and analizing the content and the style of each candidate, it was Obama who appered more relaxed and faster to respond to the questions. Mccaine appeared to be nervous and looked down to his podeum too much for answeres. He also lack the respect to Obama by not turning to him and answering questions in response directly. In face, I saw Obama turn to him on several point asnwers and questions and talk directly to Mccain. I think Mccain lost points and credebility here. He acted like he was afraid of making more mistakes. I also found the debate somewhat boring. The host of the debate was to passive and he let the candidates wondering in their answers. He almost appeard if he was not even the host.
Over all, it was Obama who came out on top, even under this boring ninety minutes...........

DAMN "U" CNN. Why in the hell did you even publish the darn poll – knowing 41 percent of the ones polled are democrates and 30 percent are independents?
DO a FAIR poll – someday – if you got the guts!
Poll 50 known democrates, 50 known independents and 50 known republicans, all 50 states!!!!!!

Then you can call it the best damn poll ever done.

Dale Godwin – North Carolina

I'm a Canadian and I'm happy to see that the Americans finally woke up after a long spell of fear what the Bush administration put over their eyes. I hope OBAMA will win. He has the vision and the respect for others. McCain is one of the "old" boys, no matter how hard he tries to disacssociate himself from Bush. He is slightly different but still a bully like Bush, when it comes to international politics. My way or the highway. Wake Up America – You need a 21st century leader, not the veteran who still plays his old cards and tricks. You need to change and OBAMA is offering this change to you. Take this opportunty. Look where the "traditional" thinking took you.

"I looked into his eyes and saw the letters K G B"! And McCain says we should not get back to the cold war days! Putin came to the US and even stayed the weekend at Bush's family home to PLEAD that the US work with Russia on preventing Iran's threat. Bush screwed it up, threatening Russia''s position and ignoring the open hand for help. McCain is even worse than Bush, because he clearly still resents his years in a communist POW camp. HATE is the wrong emotion to lead foreign policy on – and it showed throughout his address. The economic and diplomatic position of the US will surely go down the tubes with a resentful old man like this in power. We will end up bankrupt and with no friends and allies ANYWHERE.

I'm living in Berlin right now and will be coming home after the November elections,...but you can bet that I already sent in my overseas voting paperwork and will be voting for Obama. If you could hear and see the things I do over here about what a joke America is as a result of 8 yrs. Republican incompetence and greed. Everyone is connected, what affects us, affects the rest of the world, so America, please vote for a president that is a uniter and not an isolationist, or have self supremacy complexes.

Finally, McCain's claim of foreign policy experience is just another example of GOP marketing and lying to us again...I mean please, he doesn't even know that the "Republican Guard" was created and operational in Iraq! He kept yapping about it as the "Republican Guard in Iran". HUH? Nobody caught it??? Get real folks. Is ANYONE HOME HERE???...

Well I guess it's justified in GOP eyes, since they also think that if you live in a state that borders Russia, and Canada, then you are a foreign policy expert. And you wonder why folks abroad laugh when you say you are from the States???

McCain moon-walked back from DC with his tail tucked firmly between his legs. The campaign was on, there was no deal and he was at the Debate. The old whiner gets an A+ for his attempted gimmicks and flip flops. "I invite Sen. Obama to 10 town hall meetings." Town Halls are so 19th Century. McCain lost the debate before he even uttered a word. Obama was commanding on the economy and Presidential on foreign policy. War veterans belong in retirement homes. McCain get out of here. McCain will loose America '08. Wanna take a bet? It's the stupid economy!

It is clear once more that Obama is moving up on the race and became once more on top of the list. McCain did not look at Obama at all showing that he is not the right candidate to become President of our troubled country. McCain history in the army and senate is something to honor and respect but too far to become the leader that we now need. Our country is in need of fresh and renewed ideas in leadership that can put our country back on track and Obama can do the job. We need a new US in which the people can find peace, jobs, education and health care, besides bring the troops home becuse the Irak deal is not a winning war but a loosing lives and money.
Republicans as a rule like to police the world and leave the US people as second class citizens. We need the recovery of our financial strenth and open new resources for fuel and other important industries in order not to depend of the rest of the world that it is very expensive.
Our kids need good education and all of our families deserve a health care system that it is not that expensive.
Republicans your time is up lets get our country in shape before we put another failure on the White House.

Obama= 98
Mc Walkwithacaine= 0

It is painfuly obvious to any moron(my self included).

Those of you who are sadly clinging on to your Republican Designed, Patriotic Blinders and running into a Mammoth-sized brick wall of denial,will continue to do so even after you have to steal the Election with the help of one your canidate's major finacial contributors :Diebold.
Wake up.
Let it go.
You lossed this debate, now fasten your blinders nice and tight and prepare to lose the V.P. debate as well.
You can start waving the flag you have tainted, after the DIElection.
Have A Nice Day,
J.J.J

Jphn McCain clearly showed all of us that he is really the elitests not Obama, he clearly showed that he lives in the past of the politics and holds onto his war record, and name dropping in an attempt to convinence me that he is ready to be Commander in Chief. Basically he is "hot air" framed by others who are trying to remake him.

Time for John McCain to retire his campaign...he is not prepared to be President in my view. I was not impressed nor would I vote for him. McCain is a tired old politican....as seniors often do he talked down to Obama rather than lifting up his position to be a Commander.

"OBAMA DOES NOT UNDERSTAND" – It is unacceptable that a well-versed orator like Obama has to hear again and again that "Senator Obama does not understand that..." without stopping McCain right there and defusing this oldest of cheap tricks with something like "I think it would be profitable for the objectivity of this debate if Senator McCain would not purport that any disagreement with his views amounts to a lack of understanding. It is not credible to make this kind of suggestion at every bending of the debate- even though it may sometimes be justified, as in the case of the Iraq war, where it can truly be said that Senator McCain did not understand that it would not reduce terrorism but create a haven for it, and this at the cost of a huge number of lives, both american and non-american, and of hundreds of billions of dollars, that have now become unavailable when we are most in need of them." Andreas Pavel (MILANO)

Barack Obama came across as fresh, insightful, commanding, courteous, and respectful. McCain came across as condescencious, repetitious, arrogant, and out of touch.

Well the FIRST DEBATE IS OVER and what a joke?

Are we really living in a society of responsiblity and serious issues facing our economy or what? Well we all know that politics is a dirty game and we also know that the objectives on the campaign trail is to outwit or at least out perform our competitors.

BUT THIS WAS TO BE A SERIOUS DEBATE ABOUT AMERICA AND ABOUT OUR FUTURE, OUR ECONOMY AND OUR VERY EXCISTENCE!

It yet again turned out to be a "tug of war" on personality traits and who is best for the big job!

INSTEAD – of being what is good for US AMERICANS! WHat about us, what about the serious matters facing our economy and our future as the world's "supposedly leading nation"?

Why are these people EYE SPECIALISTS? All we hear was I did this, and I did that. I have done this for so many years and I have done this on that occasion. I,I,I was the trend of the night!

What happened to we? WE AS AMERICANS WILL DO THIS AND WE WILL DO THAT!

After all it seems as if our major mistake is allowing the "top dog" to believe that HE runs the country solo! Wake up – you dont! Perhaps that is the biggest problem of all – they think that they rule and run the roost ALONE!

Well they don't! It is time that the candidates realise that they are the respective leaders of a team supporting them. They don't have magic powers and wands which is going to get us out of trouble! Not one of them has this magic potion or formula they are going to present or disclose once they have the top job!

What they do have is support! The current support of their parties and soon perhaps the support of the country! The only way we can save America is by ensuring that we have the best capable TEAM running our country. The only guy who is getting this Presidential race right, seems to be Wolf Blitzer of CNN. At least he always starts his show by giving recognition to "the best team in politics"!

Perhaps if our candidates start realising that although they are given the floor it doesn't mean they own it!

They are being positioned and elected as captain of the team! NOT THE TEAM THEMSELVES! If they start referring to the competent teams they head up, I believe they will go a long way further in gaining trust. We do not want a rogue commander in chief. We want a stable country again, and sorry to say this, but no individual has that capability to pull it off alone!

Start talking about the team you are bringing to the play offs! The team that will bring the cup home again and stop talking about you! You are only a pawn on the chess board Mr Candidate. And although you are the King on the chess board, start realising that it's the pawns who defends you, it's the rourkes in your team who pull of great stunts and you always need to protect your Queen! She is even more capable than you and moves a hell of a lot more too! Your moves as the Kings is as restricted as a pawn if you didn't notice!

Your team is either good or bad, however it is a team game Mr President elect!

What we heard last night was more like a contest of my dad is stronger than you're dad! Mc Cain could easily find a job as a tour guide, because he was so intent on letting us all know where he has or hasn't been before! It is not the Presidents job to be everywhere or have been everywhere! It is his job to have the right TEAM in the right places!

Sure you need to have a good understanding of what goes on in the world, HOWEVER, it is more important to have a good knowledge of people and ensure that you have the right TEAM on the field! If the President surrounds himself with goody two shoes, we are at risk! The President should be the head recruiter surrounding himself with specialists. Specialists that may not even be out of his own party, but get the best man/woman for the job! Then start giving credit to them – the specialists!

For GOD'S sake we are not entrusting any individual with our country, our economy and our future! We are entrusting YOU with the responsiblity to manage the BEST TEAM who can run this country! Start telling us about your team, your team's plan and your teams capability and we will be a lot more informed. Prove that you are capabe of running the team and ensuring that your team will be results driven! Tell us who you are going to rope in as your specialists to get us out of this mess and stop talking about you!

You have won the confidence of being the respective candidate for both our parties, now tell us who you are going to use on the TEAM to pull this off! You already have the highest job in your party, but getting the top job in the country is not about you – it's about us! All of us! Republicans, Democrats and Independants!

You see, when you were running for party elect, you had the priviledge of running down the opposition! You are now running for the country and that includes all of us Mr Candidate – not just you're party members! You need to now stop talking about yourself and your party and start talking about ALL OF US! Your people Mr President!

That's the biggest problem we are facing now and most certainly the laughing stock for any anti American! We used to be this brilliant patriotic nation, the so called land of milk and honey! The country where anybody had the chance to make it! What are we now? The fools of the International world. We are unpopular and nobody want's to come to America anymore! With good reason that is! We have become the bully on the block, the fighter in class, the maverick nation filled with tantrums! What happened to this big peace keeping nation, advocates of democracy and living the American dream?

We have allowed our values to be misguided and our trust in Government has let us down! We have always led the world by example and now we are being led by the consequences of our own mistakes.

First and foremost, we need to stand up as one nation (team) again, put a team leader in the top job, and ellect the best team on the field! We need to stop this tug of war at home and get our act together! We need to find other ways of getting our respect back in the world, instead of going to war. It's the war which has sunk us, sorry to say!

Why are we moaning after all? We are a country at war and during war times everything sinks to the bottom! The economy, the morale, the trust – everything! The problem is we don't actually view ourselves at war! Why not? Well it's not happening here on our shores you see! It's more the President who is playing war games than a war to us as Americans! Yes our children and our families are over there, but hell it's not a war to us like it is for the people in Irak? They are at war and their economy is a lot worse than ours!

Our war games have however now caught up with us and we are now starting to fight a war of our own! A war alltogether as this is about to get very bad for us with no shots even being fired on our own shores. With the amount of money we have spent on the war so far we could have rebuilt America! Instead we have made ourselves vulnerable! If ever we were weak – it's now! Why? Well just look at the economy now! What would happen if we were now attacked again, as vulnerable as we are now?

Lets rather not go there but focus on getting our act together again and fast too!

As for the President's men? Wake up boys and talk to your people, involve your people and use your people!

Perhaps Palin and Biden will realise that it's now about AMERICA and give us a better debate next week.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

Chase Morgan

Obama was clear winner - intelligent, coherent and focused.

The main question for American people should be: do you really want to see PALIN as president? Can Palin handle the US downfall, wars and financial crisis? The answer is definitely no.

When you vote you vote for a package. Obama's package is knowledgeable, alive and clearly has some new ideas to make USA what is was.

Why didn't Obama just say.....

You got it wrong when you voted to go into Irak and why would you get it right the next time you have a choice ???

Barck tocuhed the basic points like economic and security issues well while John only talks easy statments like I am old and know it all and Obama is young,there for I am better..
This debate was the debate that shows us Obama is a strong,confident man that can bring the better America once again.

victory of obama

Senator McCain, where was your flag pin????? Are we to question your patriotism now?

First I must thank Obama for calling McCain's bluff so that we were able to have a DEBATE.. Its clear that his campaign is all about gimmicks and its getting weary.

McCain was expected to do well on Foreign Policy, its about all he seems to thrive on, and he would be happy I believe if he jumped into every conflict and threatened countries with the use of force, yet I did not hear that same stridency with veteran affairs and his response was almost apologetic. Yes victory in the war etc but what happens when they come home, where is the stats on the failed marriages, the post traumatic stress and the impact on the families. God forbid that women start ensuring that they do everything to ensure that girls are born what then? and that's the problem I have with McCain he is way to rooted in the past, and very little specifics about the future.

Obama still has to translate his ideas to real people, he did above expectations and its funny how his being respectful by saying John is right is the only thing McCain's campaign could find to make an ad about. Gimmicks again, nothing about their candidates positions. Obama just needs to focus on the issues, which he tried to do before McCain rambled on earmarks etc a good first attempt against a veteran, and I feel more than ever that America's future and perception in the world is that much brighter with Obama. He's no WIMP

Asanansi I don't think u watched the debate cos only a dumb person would think McCain thrashed Obama hands down.what do you call thrashing? Being rude, arrogant,condescending and not being able to look Obama in the eye.given the years of experience McCain claims he has,I thought he would have done better. Obama is a more credible,more professional, more accomodating candidate. I give it to Obama

While trying to diminish Obama, McCain displayed subtle nastiness. There was a meanness right below the surface.
Obama showed respect for McCain, even while disagreeing with him, and though I would have liked more verbal adroitness from him, he showed a humanity that will serve him well.
I think McCain would not look at Obama because McCain feared losing control and losing his temper.

Many thanks to Senator Barack Obama!

I wish the American people make the right decision and vote for Snator Obama and not for Senator McCain. They should prefer progress and safe future to primitivism, backwardness and stupid warfare.

I watched the debate from Germany and found Senator Obama's arguments more convincing. It is obvious to me that he is more competent. The idea of a US president McCain makes me sick, it makes me lose my appetite.

I very much dislike Senator McCain, I do not like his face, his way of speaking, his mimic and his hypocritical expression. My sister uses to say that he looks as if he were cloned from Frankenstein's DNA. I don't want to enter into details concerning the very important issues of the debate.

I would like to point out, that Senator McCain seems not to have a sound command of his mother tongue, the English language. He said that Senator Obama does not know the difference between "strategy" and "tactic". Senator McCain should consult the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary of Current English" to realize that these two terms are synonym. I hope that he knows what the term "synonym" means.

I would have liked Senator Obama to mention the fact that the Bush administration has led the US into an almost global isolation by attacking and destroying the Irak. A lot of European people condemn the Bush administration for his realy useless war in Irak. America has lost a lot of sympathy and respect. Senator Obama would be able to regain the sympathy and confidence in the US.

The majority of the German people do not agree with the aggressive american politics of invasion and destruction of other contries.

Veronica Milles, Germany

McCain won the debate hands down. Obama Clause stuttered through the entire debate. I've never seen a politician stutter that much in my life. That showed weakness and indecisiveness. McCain was consistant and he was far more knowledgeable in every category, especially world events. All Obama has to say is "four more years of the same". His only offensive weapon is to tie McCain to Bush. I don't see how people could even consider this a close debate. McCain was the winner by far.

I watched the debate in South Africa. What struck me was the difference in facial expression. Sen John McCain had this pronounced frown as to say to the audience, because that was the only place he looked, be scared, I know things are more serious than you can imagine and even I do not feel in full control. (This was also pthe reason why he kept on saying to Sen Obama: You do not understand). Sen Barack Obama on the other hand had a relaxed facial expression, no frown, that said I am convident that things can work out. Both men however was so bent on not making any mistakes that their remarks where not fluent, but full of guarded and somewhat forced articulation. This is congruent with the facial expression of Sen McCain, but not with the facial expression of Sen Obama.

After carefully watching the debates last night, I did feel that Senitor McCain out mastered Obama, both in dealing with the economic responses and the international affairs. I have not in any way been a supportor of Senitor McCain and have no appreciation of the Bush administration. However, knowing that this country will again be sending more of our young men and women off to Afganistan, as both
Obama and McCain have indicated during this debate, it is imperative and our troops desire the most .

I didn't think there was any surprises at the debate.

Almost every question put to McCain, he had to put a military spin on it. When asked about the economy, he talked about DWE writing two letters b/4 the D Day. He also interupted not only his opposition, but the narrator. He needs learns the difference between a debate & a filibuster.

Obama showed his ability to work with Republicans when he conceded that not all of Sr. McCain's ideas were in error. He also called him John, as two friends or associates would address each other. I found this refreshing, it made the whole process seem less formal. Obama seemed open to critism & willing to listen to others ideas. McCain seemed rigid & only willing to listen his own ideas.

Sr. McCain reminded me too much of President Bush & I can't fathom what another 4 or 8 yrs of what that mind set of my way or the hwy would do this for this country. McCain/Palin scare the begeebers out me.

Go Obama

Obama definitely came out on top in this one. He was thoughtful, mature, and commanded respect by his demeanor ( which McCain knows nothing about ). I am glad to see so many people abroad interested in our political outcomes and I feel that they have a unique perspective from the outside looking in. They all see how ludicrous it is that McCain/ Palin are even in serious consideration! Wake Up America! Lets give the world something to be proud of!

I thought that Obama won "on points" (to use a boxing metaphor). He stood toe to toe with McCain on McCain's strongest ground–foreign policy. The best line of the night came from Obama when he said that for the last years everything has been seen through the prism of Iraq, which has weakened the US ability to respond elsewhere. Obama also scored points when he pointed out how McCain shared many of the wrong assumptions concerning Iraq–that it would be easy, that there were WMD, etc etc. McCain came across as disdainful and condescending. But McCain did score some points by pointing out that Obama opposed the surge, which might provide a pathway out of Iraq.

In this present modern world, all that is needed is diplomacy and foresight. Obama showed his ambition and thoughts. Ready for negotiation and relaunching American dream. He is careful and straight. He got his Points, all that should be done, broad ideas and very PRESIDENTIAL: I think he is really going to bring PEACE in America.
Hoping we all give him the chance and forget about POLITICS .
GOD BLESS AMERICA.

I am from Malaysia. First of all congratulations to CNN for the extensive coverage of the 1st Presidential debate which to me,Obama won by a mile.
Obama would appear to me to be better prepared, and articulated his presidential policies much more clearer than McCain, who appeared ill prepared, no thanks to his display of brinkmanship regarding his attendance.

Obama remember how people around the world wanted to live in an american way. Today USA try to find a way, maybe a main street instead of wall stret. Please keep it in mind when you vote.
Carlos – from Brazil

McCain definitely showed his superiority over Sen. Obama. His knowledge base, and accomplished ability to understand and assimilate information shows his unquestionable ability to be our next president. If he came across condescending toward his debate rival, then that's the kind of person we need to lead our nation in this world of international terroristic leaders. We Americans need a strong president who can stand up to and overcome our enemies – at the conference table, and the economic and physical battle field. His experience, honesty, and forthright patriotism showed through and won this debate! We need him in the tough times ahead.
By the way, the Democrats have been in congressional control for at least the last two years. The Clinton Democratic entitlement social mortgage lending easment policy, and the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae former heads are the backdrop of Sen. Obama's mindset and adviser panel. You can't deny that these 3 facts weigh in support of Sen. McCain as the best choice for president.

McCain lives in the past. Obama is always thinking about the future. America needs a new future. America needs Obama.

I found it distaseful when Obama tried to answer for the both of them.

Obama may good speaker, but he needs another 10 years or so in Washington before he will be qualified. If elected, he will create many vacuums around the world. While trying to reason with the bad guys, they will take advantage of his good nature (a la Jimmy Carter). If MCcain comes off as a little sacry to the rest of the world, that may be a good thing. MCcain may have been a little sarcastic, but what other way to deal with inexperienced comments that are designed to be replayed as sound bytes?

As MCcail is 72, the VP debate will probably be the most important in history.

I believe the debate was suposed to be primarily on 'future' foreign policy! Over all Mr Obama came out with a more desireable 'american' vision for the future from a presidential perspective. He would definitely be better for America and the world. However there were some lows – at places he sounded that he would still be ok with flexing american military muscle on its own, he was little short on first hand knowledge of the local/regional environments across flash points in the world, besides having overall a correct perspective he did not clearly mention the need for different approaches/handling to/of different issues in the world etc. Mr J Mccain seemed simply just too OUTDATED and OUT OF SYNC both with what is being done and what needs to be done in the future by USA.

Obama was definitely more Presidential. McCain seemed to smirk and behave condescending while simply repeating charges that had been refuted many times. McCain has no charisma and seems boring as an individual. He does not appear to be as intelligent as a President needs to be and his way of expressing himself is very simplistic compared to the way Senator Obama addresses the issues. One seems naturally bright and the other seems to be making an extreme effort to remember what he has been briefed to get across. Europe is for Obama and has received both candidates. The world's opinion of the USA needs to change and hopefully the best candidate to insure this should be elected. Globally, Senator Obama would insure a new outlook on Americans and the USA.

John McCain scores big time by rarely looking at Barack Obama in the debate. At first I thought this was a mistake, but Sen. Obama was clearly irritated by his inability to lure Sen McCain into an “in your face” shouting match which is how he has run his campaign. This type of platform and style of debate that Sen. Obama likes was effectively taken away by Sen. McCain who stayed completely in control of the whole debate.

This was an ingenious demonstration of why Sen. McCain is correct about not sitting down with leaders like Achmadinejad face to face without preconditions. We do not give them a global platform to rant their nonsense. Again, Sen. Obama has a lot to learn from Sen. McCain.

I can not believe the media OOOHing and AAAHing over John McCain’s passport stamps.

Here is a perfect example of an America with no global credibility thinking because , “I have visited a country I understand what is best for that country?” When McCain went to Iraq he was surrounded by a couple platoon of Marines, (really in touch with the people. I am sure he no what it feels like to spend time without water and electricity because of the visit. When did he go to the ex-Russian states and look at Putin’s poster, he certainly did not do much about it, where were the alarm bells John, Man of Judgment?

I have visited Cancun, I’m still not sure what to do with the increasing kidnapping problem in Mexico.

Fact is intelligence and military muckity mucks will advise the president on a situation and he will use his judgment to decide on a plan of action. McCain’s judgment has been wrong in the past even when visiting the country. GO OBAMA

Charles, chicago

McCain sounded very old, out of date and garrulous about old stories. Who cares? I want to hear about the issues and McCain was playing games and behaving way to condescending. I cant see him as able to restore america's image in the world. Can you?

Anya

Clearly Obama won.
MCCain is just another Bush's copy-cat. he reallyShould retired from Politics and go back to school to learn more human behaviour.
I'm also shamed to be a Australian as American's ass licker.

ShanYe, Australia

Many of the comments of this poll are obviously in subjective favor of BHO. There are few comments on how BHO is operating on the level of what JM is accused of...so I guess it is true as is said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder...yet I think that most are able to look at beauty for what it really is and that is that it is more than just skin deep...blacks stop defending your own race and falsely accusing those who committed no crime against you and whites stop taking on the complex of a false guilt for crimes commited by others before your time. That being said, there is an obvious difference in ideology between the two main candidates in this race...one advocates socialism in the max while the other advocates something more in line with the ideals of the founders of this country. If any one of you citizens choose BHO for the next occupant of the White House, you will deserve exactly what you get...less freedom even though you've been promised a break. And although I'm wary of what global agenda JM has, I'd rather he be there than his opponent or the fascist choice of the CP candidate.

Come on America, is John McCain really the type of President you want representing you in these times that we live in? This is the man who ran from the debate to the "comforts" of the administration in Washington and who voted with bush 90% of the time. He (McCain) had a few strong moments last night, but seemed to gloss over foreign policy issues with name-dropping of foreign leaders (many whom middle-class America haven't heard of anyway...he even got the current President of Pakistan incorrect). His attempts to bully his way over Barack will tell you that he is not going to listen to anything that anyone has to say...your ideas or mine. Barack's temperment and focus presented him as Presidential. Even the eye contact let's me know that he cares to listen to what EVERYONE has to say.

My hard-earned 401K and stock portfolio is what I am concerned with right now, and from what I heard last night, McCain has no idea what he's going to do to help preserve that.

Also, isn't it the job of the President to appoint a staff of experts to help manage this country and protect our rights...i.e. Joe Biden, foreign policy guru. That's what builds a good team. Look at McCain's choice for VP. God forbid something happens to McCain if he were elected, considering his bouts with cancer and illness, but if Palin becomes President, this county will go into a Great Depression (bailout plan or not). America, Palin's idea of foreign policy experience is being able to see Russia from Alaska..WHAT!! Just watch the Katie Couric interview on Monday, that will tell you everything you need to know about John McCain, here at home. Judgment is everything and McCain just does not have what it takes.

I am not an American – only married to one – but I believe I might be as concerned about the fate of these elections as much as any American. I am reakky trying to give credit to McCain when listening to his comments, strategies and watching him speak and I can honestly say that despite my fear from a very "young" president at difficult times that normally require matture experience, McCain is simply not delivering! I must also say that his VP pick turned me off and made me think that this is not someone who is looking for a good, potential, qualified interim president should the case be, but rather for a running mate who can pull his ratings up at a time when he needed it most. Another political move that is totally disconnected from the reality of the US' and the world's needs. Another Capitol Hill day-to-day activity that is anything but that of an agent of change.

Do these debates matter. It seems like a football game, each side cheering on their own no matter what, no one learning anything. Pointless

I thought that America couldn't never produce a President worst than Bush and a worst vice-president than Cheney!

Than McCain came. With Palin!

God, please!, please! save America!

Sarah,
He is showing his experience because he wants the country to reveal the inexperience of his opponent. Senator Obama was in the senate for 27 months prior to starting his campaign that has lasted nearly 24 months. I believe it is legitimate to expose this because one would like the highest official in the government to be qualified. President Bush was not qualified and look at what his administration accomplished. Don't rest your hopes on the youth and charisma of one man, trust in the knowledge and devotion to helping this country. I believe that they can both be stupendous presidents, but don't bash a hero that helped shape this country.

Your website is skewed with Obama supporters. This is because they are the 20 to 30 age group who are the majority of internet users and are seduced by Obama's youth and 'deep baritone voice' and value *image* over *ability*.
McCain is clearly the more capable of the two.

Obama did not take any risk. He did not exploit the crisis as he could because he was afraid to connecthis side tofuture problems (nobody likes to listen prblems will come)
McCain due the ciscunstances wasmuch better.
American people THINK Mcain is an expert in foreign policy (he is not he is naive so another point to McCain.He convinced he is an "expert"
(by the way McCain,Zapatero is SPANISH and spain was part of the "Iraq mess" on US side)

I really am afraid of McCain, for one, he has a wife in the corporate circles so naturally he will give huge tax breaks to the corporate world, thus allowing them to continue on this track of greed.
Secondly, he may have war experience, but he was in the Viet Nam war, a war we all know should never have happened, and so, he was held prisioner. I don't take that lightly, but, serving in Viet Nam is not comparable to todays problems in the middle east other than the fact we should have never gone to Iracq and we should have stayed in Afganistan.
Mccain is military crazed and big business bedded down. We want someone to look out for us, the blue collar workers, the people who keep paying higher premiums on health care while fired execs get 7 million in exit pay!!
McCain is scary indeed! He gets a virtual nobody to be his running mate to score points because he knows everyone was hoping for a female president, Palin will get eaten up by the beltway boys and spit out, she is clueless! Scary!

I am from Asia. What i could see from McCain are comments that shows why Asians have negative view of America. These superior attitude and paranoia that the rest of the world are againts America or Americans at large is dumb!!! China has just launch they own astronauts to space and perhaps land their own people to moon in not so distant future. The rest of the world can prosper without America. Obama realise that, hence his comments that America should improve their view to the rest of the world. Maybe McCain should visit other part of the world on shoe string budget to get better view of the rest of the world. We are nice people too you know?! Not some lunatics trying to find ways to bomb Americans.....

Tip for John McCain about etiquette: Not acknowledging the existence of your opponent is, simply put, unpresidential and not quite the role model example of a "leader".

Why has my comments been deleted?

I believe Obama will represent future America and McCain represents yesterday's . You have to confess the age is an issue. I can not think US people will select old grandpa as president, if McCain win your people will suffer another 4 years.

In my opinion Obama won 90% of the debate. There were one or two parts, specially the part with sitting on a table with Iran, where McCain won, but otherwise I think Obama did a better job by far. Specially that he called out all of McCains lies, whenever he tried to twist Obamas record, probably helped him a lot, explaining his stances to people and showing what a liar McCain is. His attacks on McCain regarding the economy were strong and convincing. And even on McCains strongest subject, foreign policy Obama grilled him with his wrong decisions.

I agree with Obama that USA need to discuss with everyone without pre-conditions. It doesnt mean to accept everything but to understand other point of view. That is democracy ! Why USA uses diferent aproach for internal and external issues? The planet has no bounders. We invented it .

McCain's demeanor of never looking at Obama is simply sad. Not to mention that he cannot say anything more substantial other than $18 B in earmarks (gee, big deal, $10 B goes per moth to Iraq), his POW sympathy calls, and that Senator Obama is naive or whatever.

Obama has shown quite the understanding (and the bigger picture) of every topic, despite being "inexperienced." He is apparently a quick learner, and if he could stand up to McCain on foreign policy, he will have him as a snack when it comes to the economy.

Sorry, right-wingers and bigots, when your only complaint about Obama is his name, you are truly pathetic. Plus, it is not like Sarah Palin's kids have a great WASP names.

Senator Obama overall did a much better job, but what irked me the most was the Kissinger issue. It has been verified several times that Henry Kissinger has said that we should meet with our perceived enemies including Iran without precondition. John McCain knows this but instead decided to play with words. Kissinger never said the Presidents should just walk in the room and sit down and neither has Senator Obama. Because they have been a friends for 35 years doesn't mean they have to agree, be a man John standup and admit what was said and disagree. The current "precondition" policy is a failed policy it hasn't even worked in fifty years with Cuba a country with a failed economy and no nuclear weapons. The consequence of not talking to Iran will be much more significant than the millions of refugees we have had to absorb form Cuba.

I expected more from Obama. Obama said we never should have gone into Iraq. I agree. McCain said we are winning the war. I would have liked Obama to ask what we are winning. What does victory look like? What will we have accomplished? Democracy? I don't think so, unless by democracy we mean a shattered, divided country. Obama spoke of the Americans killed. Why didn't he mention the number of Iraqis killed? Don't they count? Are they less than human?

And Obama spoke of how the resources we are spening in Iraq keep us from projecting our power elsewhere, like in South America. What is that, the Monroe Doctrine? Would he like to invade a few South American countries? It is time for American empire buuilding and world bullying to end. I hoped that Obama would be for that, but I guess not.

I am sure Obama is a nice person as well as very smart as I am sure McCain is the best for president, what it takes to be President is more than what Obama has to offer, both candidates are great but for different jobs, only one has the full package to be a President of US and that is McCain.

Go OBAMA go.....God be with you.

I have been followng this debate from London as close as anyone and understand the issues and have seen every dialogue. I have a mind for politics and have found the whole process of both the primaries and main presidential race very interesting.

America has an amazing opportunity to change direction with the quite remarkable Barack Obama.

Senator Obama is known and liked around the world because of his values, his approach and common sense policy.

If Americans do not vote Obama president it will be an opportunity lost and really an indictment on your collective judgement.

However I know and like many Americans and I think he will win. And thank goodness for that because he will set America and the world on a new path.

My comment to Rodney's input, Cape Town, South Africa.
Rodney, you are wrong by assuming that only 20, 30 age groups are the majority of internet users. I am 54 and feel young enough to use the internet. So, you are also wrong by assuming that McCain is "clearly the more capable ot the two".

Don't you think that McCain is too old to become president? Don't you realize that someone who is not even able to operate a computer, which is absolutly indispensable nowadays, whould be able so solve the huge problems the US is coping with and which have been caused by the Bush administration ?
When Bush disappears from the political scene he should announce: Après moi le déluge! I hope you understand a little bit of French. I hope he will disappear soon.
Veronica

MC cain wins a clear land slide if the vote was one day after the debate

Speaking as someone who is not in the 20-30 age group – I am closer in age to McCain – I am not seduced by Obama's youth. I am seduced by his intellect, his grasp of the issues, his calm demeanor – in other words his \i{Presidential} qualities.

It seems the McCain/Palin ticket's modus operandi is condescending, patronizing, demeaning, tactics that are not focused on the issues at hand, but on the same talking points over and over, ad nauseum. I wanted Obama to be a bit more forceful in reacting to McCain's mini filibusters on his naivete, lack of understanding and so-called inexperience – but on reflection was glad that Obama didn't stoop to McCain's level.

McCain's smirking, jaw-clenching, etc. was telling. The fact he wouldn't/couldn't look Obama in the eye during the debate was also telling, even after Lehrer urged them to talk to each other.. The fact that Conservative pundits thought Obama shouldn't have referred to McCain as "John", because it didn't show the proper respect, was telling. Was Obama supposed to call him "Master"? To me, it was a sign of respect – two human beings trying to be the leader of the world's strongest superpower – talking to each other.

I hope the American people do the right thing in November.
the result doesn't affect only you. It affects the whole world.

McCain definitely surprised me with his assertiveness and firmness and Obama did too with the lack thereof. However, half way into the debate I realized that this was a strategy, in my opinion, that McCain over-used. I agree with a lot of opinions on this blog, that it represented McCain's "old" political strategy of taking a few words, rephrasing, and mis-characterizing Obama's stance, rather than answering the question or addressing the issue itself.

Another example of McCain's old political strategy is his stance on foreign relations. It seemed like he was again using 'fear' as a selling point to his campaign. It seemed he kept emphasizing the need to be on the offensive. Sound familiar?

Get with it guys, its exactly this "either with us or without us" foreign policy that has led this world to become a more dangerous place. What ever happened to diplomacy in foreign policy? I felt that Obama effectively emphasized the diplomatic approach more.

This is what I heard from McCain last night: smirk, surge, surge, war, war, smirk, surge, arrogance, smirk, surge, surge, veterans, war, surge, smirk.

I wanted to spew!

Overall I think it is clear that McCain has far more political experience than Obama. The thing, though, is that McCain's experience goes back to a very unpopular war, followed by decades of cold war. But those times are over. Today's world is very different, it's problems and challanges are very different and it needs leaders who acknowledge that and are able to adjust to it. As long as the US keep stepping on other people's toes and not respect different views and opinions terror will remain a threat. You can't always have it your way because people, traditions and ways of life a different in other countries.

I agree with McCain that the US will have to stay longer in Iraq than Obama seems to think it being necessary. The current situation there is far from being stable and until the Iraqis are ready to take over the US military will have to stay. The point though is that the US has to stay to actually clear up the mess they've made by going there in the first place. Before the war there wasn't any kind of terrorism or Iranian influence in Iraq, on the contrary, the Iraqis have hated the Iranians since the Shah was forced to go to exile. Only with the political vaccuum that followed the invasion was it possible to spread fundamentalist influence into Iraq. McCain seems to forget that.

Another thing that I, as a European, find very interesting, is the ongoing debate about health care. Throughout Europe virtually everyone has got health insurance and it amazes me, that for a country like the US it doesn't seem to be possible to provide at least basic health care for it's citizens. Ok, McCain wants the families to decide for themselves wether ot not they want health care, fair enough. But I don't think I am wrong in my judgement that many Americans actually don't have that choice. For them to be able to choose between "yes, I want health care" and "no, I don't want health care" they first would have to be able to afford it. Fore those who can't the "choice" will always be "no" to health care, because they can't pay for it anyway.

I could go on, but these are the points that struck me the most.

Peter from Boston, you're just a bit subjective in your analysis, NOT TO MENTION THE FACT THAT YOU ARE AN INFANT with emphasis...maybe you never learned all those things in Kindergarten...

McCain is deceiving the American public. Obama is at least trying to be truthfull as much he can.
I cannot understand how anybody with the slightest knowledge of the Situation in Afghanistan and Irak can even think that "winning" there would be even possible. Especially given the fact that general Petraeus questioned that possibility just one week ago in an interview with the BBC.

To the moderator...are we detecting some bias here...both my post are awaiting moderation...what's up with your suggestive comment on moderation...why not include it with every post...explain yourself in a post identified as the CNN moderator...or should I say gutless...

First, where was the 'moderator'?? You know THE man who is supposed to keep order, track of time...Jim Lehrer did a terrible job, allowing McCain to overspeak Obama...and, the final blow, where he said he had '8 seconds' and McCain spoke for 16 1/2 seconds, only one example where the moderator didn't moderate. Lehrer should have tamped down McCain several times, when he was clearly lying, and Lehrer never stopped McCain to allow for Obama's legitimate rebuttal of the lies.

From our viewing here in Ireland, Obama won on many points: sincerity, accuracy, deference to his opponent, factual history, ethics in policy, where McCain just looked old, deaf, and just more of the same Bush 'stuff' that has ruined Ireland, the world's economy and the US standing everywhere the Republican Adminstation has laid their paws for the last 8 years.

Clearly, Obama won, in spite of Lehrer, who really ought to attend a debating team instruction course. Next time, get a REAL Moderator in charge who is not afraid and intimidated by McCain.

BTW, in our Navy, if you have already crashed 4 planes and then crash one in enemy territory, putting yourself in enemy hands, you are declared a 'Failure of the Mission' and receive demotion, not praise. It is NO honor being a prisoner or losing over 3 Million Dollars worth of aircraft!!We remarked how impudent he was to brag about being a Navy pilot...save us from such pilots, please! He clearly should never have left the training field!

McCain is too old and infirmed to be running and we were shocked when the Republican Party chose one so old and fighting cancer. And, that stunt to insinuate himself into the financial debacle, after HIS record as one of the Keating Five, who caused all the mess when the Savings and Loan banks fell just years ago was laughable! It suggested delusions of grandeur and selfish grandstanding of the first order.

Obama is the hope for the USA. We hope he wins!! And, we hope for the next debate, that the network hires a competent referee...it would make it easier to actually hear the responses instead of geriatric mumbling and rudeness! Obama was THE gentleman of the Debate, and unquestionably to those who study Debate, THE WINNER!! We pray he becomes President so America can be saved.

Ninetynine Dreams of America!
the O'Merrills
Watching from Ireland

My husband and I are close to McCain's age and we looked at each other and said "McCain is living in the past!" Barack won because he showed the vision and leadership this country needs.

Senator Obama won by giving clear and commanding answers that left little doubt that he understands the fundamentals of both foreign policy and domestic issues. Senator McCain appeared annoyed that he even had to appear at the debate to explain his views to the American people. he refused to look at his opponent, and in answer to questions simply repeated talking points he has given a hundred times on the stump. Senator McCain kept claiming that Senator Obama doesn't understand foreign policy, probably hoping that if he kept repeating that untruth it would stick. Fortunately for the American people, after tonight it won't.

Obama has far more intellectual substance and the ability to think through issues without acting like a bull in a china shop. Obama could have highlighted this directly, which (though could be interpreted as a personal attack) is what was most lacking in the Bush administration. You don't need to see beyond the debacle of Iraq and "proof" of Sadam's WMDs (and MaCain supported it 100%) to see the bull in a china shop approach, which has thoroughly discredited America in the eyes of the world (unfortunately!).

I am an Independent but it was an Obama win over the half truths and plain lies of McCain.

If you like King George, then you will love McCain.

More of the same that got us into the mess we are in.

As an Independent I want to hear something other than bashing the other candidate. Obama's acknowledgment of McCain being "right" indicated to me that he was the "bigger man" in this. These were areas of agreement. Obama came off confident. McCain, appeared always on guard, defensive and self-absorbed.

Get real people. McCain was condescending to Obama? What school of etiquette did you come from. A Senior Senator addressing a Freshman Senator showed more respect by addressing Obama as "Senator Obama."
Obama said, "John"! Get real this is not a bar room discussing Obama! But that's Obama. He can address the foreign leaders with proper title, but not John. But all this misses the point and most people find little time to invest their time in researching the truth about these two men. There is an old say, "Beauty is only skin deep." Yes, Obama shows great skill, but that is only (so to speak) "skin" deep. With Russia once again flexing its muscles, Iran ready to pounce, and others throughout the world actively engaged in Anti-American activity, who do you think they want to win? Is it the "wise and road tested warrior" or "the new kid on the block ready to talk?" In this time of great uncertainly, we need a veteran quarterback tried and tested not a rookie who came out of college early to try his hand in world affairs. Now more food for thought on the economy, "tax cuts are meaningless, if you are at the local job fair looking for work." Obama speaks of tax cuts for 95% of American, what does that mean, how much per person, etc. People, please focus on what is meaningful with substance and not on words that leave you full but still hungry.

Old ,out of touch, senile, repetative, confrontational, war fatigued, starchy, ignorant, all these describe McFailing attempt at last nights debate.

GOOOOOOOO.............OBAMA

Obama came across as knowledgeable, diplomatic, fand presidential. McCain came across as arrogant, backward looking, and stubborn on the policies that have been a failure. It was good to see Obama be concrete in his solutions and not vague as he sometimes tends to do, although neither candidate was very crisp in his answer to Lehrer's question about the bailout plan. Still, Obama seems to me a clear winner in this debate.