I thought that McCain did well too, at least in the latter half of the debate when they had moved into foreign policy issues. He looked great. His tie was excellent. The fact that it was wide and striped made him look just the right weight for the camera. Obama looks much too thin on camera; it's unfortunate that the conventions stick him with a black suit. I did not like his tie.

Obama has my vote.

My first assessment is that Obama got a huge advantage by not loosing on this debate. I am not sure who won, but the fact that it is not clear to me, means a victory to Obama due to the expectations. On the other hand, Obama looked clear, crisp and very eloquent on his answers. McCain seemed to try to laugh at Obama and try to patronize him, which will show to the public that he is in fact more of the same. Also, I see that McCain's campaign wants Obama to stop looking at the past when McCain makes consistent views at the past to show us what he thinks will be the future. I think this is a great start for Obama if he keeps the eye in the ball in the following debates and stop trying to find common ground with McCain.

I would also like ot know what is the deal with the score cards, are this official?

McCain knew what he was talking about. knowledgeable in ALL areas. He cares about the future of this country and its citizens. He does not spend his time taking debating lessons, he spends his time working for all the people. His ideas are what we need during this time. Obama is a puppet of Hollywood, and I guarantee you, his pockets will be lined.

I was more impressed with McCain than I thought I would be. Not that this is saying much – I was expecting the petulant, grandstanding, and, yes, lying presence we have been following in the media in recent weeks. He was all that, but was also a strong debater. He played his first-hand experience to his advantage, albeit in an anecdotal rather than an issue-based way. He also had poise and technique (pointed ruffling of papers into the microphone when Obama spoke, extending his answers pointlessly to override Obama's objections).

But Obama was as impressive as I expected him to be – better on the issues, more diplomatic, and tough when he needed to be. He looked more presidential, at times even guiding the debate when McCain was trying to take it off the rails.

So, no surprise to me, Obama won.

Obama stayed on point in answering the questions. He looks to the future and is willing to try new things to get the world view back on track for the US. Trying to wean the US from Foreign Oil by alternative energy. Plus he is willing to utilize diplomacy instead of just threatening the other countries of the world that they Must do as the US. The World opinion of the US has fallen to the lowest level ever. That affects the economy.
The US has to look to the future instead of looking backwards at what has not worked with McCain's (and Bush) ideas for military action in carrying the big stick. Go for it Obama !

From tonight debate, ask yourselve who can keep America safe and improve on American intergrity arround the world. McCain will only isolate countries who doesnt agree with his policies and create more enemies and spread hate and anti-american. Obama will be more engagingto trash out the issues and make countries become more US allies and cooperate more to tackle world menace such as terrorism. Obama was more Presidential and had more points while McCain was disrespectful and lack cooperation and diplomacy. My way or u get issolated and gunned down. If you elect McCain, America will fall.

Nicholas from Nigeria

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.

There's a misconception on the part of a lot of Americans that someone who is well spoken can't possibly be sincere/knowledgeable, and I just don't think that's true. Obama is a pretty good debater. That doesn't mean he's in Hollywood's pocket(where does that come from?? I think that was Reagan, a president who had actually WORKED in Hollywood). I think it means he's a good debater. In addition, however, he also has solid ideas about the economy(have people even thought through what Mccain's suggestion would mean, to freeze all spending other than the military?? For instance, how that would affect your kids' SCHOOLING??), and solid ideas about foreign policy. The fact that he can actually pronounce the names of foreign leaders might actually be a plus, not, as some might think, a minus. It doesn't mean he doesn't care about Americans.
Also, I know this is a dead horse, but McCain is, whether he likes it or not, kinda old. And if something happened to him, the presidency would go to-TA-da! Sarah Palin. Who is not knowledgeable in ANY area.

Sen. Obama just blew me away! So respectful (Sen McCain did not return this respect: couldn't even look him in the eye) and with a forceful and in depth command of the issues. I was so impressed. I left the debate having learned more about U.S. issues overseas from his spectacularly coherent words.

Body language is very important and telling. Words that describe Sen McCain's performance for me: truculent, beady eyed, bobbing, short man's syndrome. Incoherent and rambling about himself not what he can do for the American people.

While driving to work this morning the radio talk was on how Obama had been preparing and practicing while McCain was "doing a photo shoot" in DC – thus the debate would show McCain as unprepared – "shooting from the hip" one announcer stated. I was expecting Obama to outshine McCain. I was disappointed. Obama started out with a prepared statement looking straight in the camera to the people. But lost it along the way. Now I wonder if he is an educated actor. With McCain on the other hand I expected a reserved older minded politician – what I saw was a confident, experienced, heartfelt man. I believe the statement that changed my opinion & vote was McCain stating Obama wasn't just naive but dangerously so. That is how Obama appeared tonight with his stammering out an opinion and then retreating by agreeing with "John". The media may play up that McCain is living in the past experience too much and Obama is the new change...just remember the majority of voters are the baby boomers that are on McCain's timeline so we relate to that past.

Well, speaking of contempt McCain displayed 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. You just cant expect a person of John McCain status to treat a petty adventurist like Obama as his equal.

Yes, Obama behaved in a presidential manner tonight. McCain definitely did not.

Obama looked great! McCain needs a cowboy hat, spurs and boots and maybe he could look like the "maverick" he claims to be. Maybe Bush could give him one of his.

Americans seem to have forgotten or are totally unaware of the previous reputation the former Presidents of that nation had as an intellectuals. With the last eight years the current President has become an icon not of scrutiny but of ridicule. I have seen too many skits and movies spoofing Bush and his policies. McCain is perceived as another Bush and it will be a disservice to the American cause if the next President is also perceived as incompetent. No one will take him or the Americans seriously any longer.

Yes, Tamara, you are correct. McCain's smirking and condescending manner made him look very unpresidential indeed. He was acting more like a schoolyard bully than a candidate for president of the US.

I noticed that not once did McCain look at Obama when answering him or addressing a point that Obama had made.

I think this showed a lack of respect .... and I am a McCain fan

Linda

Sydney – Australia

Why are people so SHALLOW? Not Presidential? Just because McCain didnt look at him? I wouldnt look at him either. He was stuttering as he was and he AGREED with McCain 80% of the time. Wake up people! You have a presidential candidate who is INEXPERIENCED. Bottom line is Debate or No Debate, people have already made up their minds. What just really gets me is that people fail to see that Obama just likes being a celebrity. He is an OPPORTUNIST.

McCain, how distasteful he is to other people, is more suitable for the job. This is NO COMMUNITY WORK. In times like these, where both economy and national security are at stake, I wouldn't bet my money on someone who has not been tested yet.

People have more to say about McCain only because the man has stood by his decisions and been hold accountable to it. Obama for the most part, ABSTAINED.

Moreover, CNN is VERY BIASED. Do not let the Media mislead you especially FOX.

i read comment about why obama refered to mccain as john but i read nothing about what mccain meant by he was not elected in the senate as miss congeniality..was this some kind of insult to obama?

Obama Was intact and Mccain somewhat confused. Mccain should lose if not then God help us all, and I do mean all as in the whole world.

Mary, it's people like you, with simplistic and unsubstantiated claims that voted Bush into the office, and got this country into this amount of trouble. Where do you get your ideas from about McCain care more about American people than Obama? or that Obama's pocket is lined with Hollywood? True, McCain doesn't need his pockets lined, that's why he married the blond robot.

I think you would think McCain "understands" all the issues only if you don't understand them at all, then the content he spitted out would ring true to you. There's no nuance, there was only simple answers based on gut instinct. Why do we need McCain or anyone to be the President of the US if everything can be decided on simple principles?

America is likened to a mirror that does not see the reflection of itself.
People outside of it are able to see through them.I am wondering the amount of accolades showered on McCain being the right man to see them through this tough period.Is it not the same man who wants to perpetuate the stay of American forces in Iraq? The war that is costing huge amount of money and a lot of lives? The same man that supported Bush failed policies all of the time? God can only be called upon for a rescue mission for America if he wins this election.
America, Giant of the world must wake up before its too late.

the 72 year-old guy was resolute... but stubborn in his dogmatic insistence against all odds that the macabre iraq war is a good idea. he is badly out of touch with the rest of the world and a majority of right- thinking Americans. Does his America have only war and fire-power to export? Don't let me say old man old ideas
ojong, cameroon.

Obama went into that debate as an under dog in terms of experience but you have to give the man credit he handled himself and the debate extremly well. I belive Senetor Obama would make a great President he has got great diplomacy . I am sure he would cement most of the gaps created by the current administration.

I think McCain did well in telling his old patriotic tales and stories and he scored a lot by saying that Obama doesn't understand (many times) this and that. What i don't understand of McCain is his Expertise on foreign policy didn't make American people safe today. His pre-conditioned-attitude on negotiations give the impression to us ally countries that we have no more right to be heard thus we just swallow the solutions that he imposes. I think this is barbaric. We need a US President who understand our values, rights, diplomacy and cultures. Obama is right, no pre-conditioned negotiations is diplomatic, respect and peaceful solutions. Enough of killings, enough of filling hatred and vengeance, enough of war and greediness. Next US President should promote peace and harmony among nations around the world.

I wish to inform mary perkins that Obama transends this belittling image of a celebrity politician. Try and look beyond his charm to get his sharp political insight and statesmanship.Reagan, schwazzeneger(correct spelling?), thompson and others were catapulted to politics from hollywood but it's obama's political mettle that will definitely give him a celebrity status especially at the world stage. Don't limit him to hollywood when he has Europe , Africa', the Americas the middle east and Asia hoping to benefit from his competences
ojong, cameroon

Sen. Mccain clearly outshined Sen. Obama in this debate. He is more knowledgeable and diplomatic. I was disappointed with Sen. Obama, you can tell his inexperience and immaturity in most of his answers.

I believe senator McCain has a tougher stand as a leader than senator Obama. and senator Obama often times repeated that senator McCain is right most of the time. I think during these times of hardship, a more experienced and knowledgeable leader is needed rather than a visionary leader. and senator McCain knows more of what is happening especially in Iraq. i believe if the military troops could comment on the political aspects they would prefer senator McCain rather than senator Obama to be the next leader of the united states of america.

Obama was the over all winner. He was more strait forward and he did not repeat himself as McCain did.
Another thing: Why does 5 years in a VietNam- prison give extra qualification for the precidential job? In my eyes it should count on the negative side.

Rolf

It appears Sen. John McCain does not have a place for diplomacy. I believe this generation has seen so much violence and should think more of peace plans.

Generally speaking I was disappointed by the way the avoided keeping to the questions asked. But I must admit both candidates did impress on the way they handled themselves. Sen. John McCain was able 2 handle the pressure during the first half of the debate about economic issues. Sen. Barrack Obama was able 2 handle the onslaught by McCain on foreign policy by trying 2 belittle him by trying to expose his inexperience.
Overall, Obama scored higher for he proved he can be presidential & can handle what is thrown at him without a scripted & rehearsed preparation

Obama is the way to go. Americans cant afford an arrogant leader right now.

Effort should be geared towards reducing tension in the globe and what they, the candidates can do to avoid the impending economic chaos in the US and stop trading blames

Effort should be geared towards reducing tension in the globe and what they, the candidates can do to avoid the impending economic chaos in the US and stop trading blames

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!

On the most hot topic of economic meltdown, both candidates did not offer anything new. Specifically interesting were the answers regarding what change they will do to their agenda after this new situation. Not convincing. May be no one wanted to stick his neck out with an answer.
Not a quality I would look for in a commander in chief.
New Zealand

I feel Obama has a better stage presence; Jim Lehrer attempted to have the two candidates address each other directly, John McCain refused to do that. I do not recall seeing him look at Barack Obama at all during this debate, it seemed all of his answers were directed to Lehrer, while Obama directed his answers to McCain, looking directly at him and mentioning him by name in his responses. I feel Obama won this one. It is obvious McCain has superior foreign policy experience and knowledge of Eastern Europe's background, but I feel Obama held his own. One of the things McCain said a few times that did concern me was his belief we are "winning" the war in Iraq. How can that be? We did not go there to liberate Iraq, we went to stop them from producing weapons of mass destruction. They weren't there. Our mission now seems to be to liberate Iraq and secure their economic future. First, Iraq is ten of trillions of dollars in economic surplus, while we, America, are over five hundred trillion dollars in debt. I think they are financially secure. Next, how do we ensure their democracy without a continued occupation? Our being there is strengthening the relationship between Iraq and Iran, who before this war were enemies. It's time to get out and focus our attention on Afghanistan and Pakistan, those places where Osama Bin Laden is most likely in hiding. All in all, I agreed more with Obama on his views on the economy, the war in Iraq, as well as his style of handling foreign diplomatic affairs.

i thought that McCain did well, at least in the latter half of the debate when they had moved into foreign policy issues. it is very pronounced that he does not get it when it comes to the ecomomy But McCains assignment to the War College hammers these ideas in your head not more then physcomlogy brain washing. I have ha him as my senator from the first day he has been a senator. I have problems with the Veterans Administration and he has refused to aide in correcting military records and get my total disability for my service in Vietnam. He's the worst as a senator for the people and very good for the business people

As a former republican supporter, I've switched to Obama and last night's debate confirmed I am moving in the right direction. Obama can move the country in the right direction. Although "elder" normally equates to wisdom, McCain made it equate to patronizing and "if it worked this way in the past, it will work this way in the future". Obama knows history, and so history will not repeat itself, and he has the foresight that new options ARE available to deal with NEW crisis.

Obama acknowledged the rightness of some of McCain's statements and made more than several points of agreeing with McCain. McCain refused to look at Obama and was trying to show that debating Obama was a waste of his valuable time by smiling contemptuously and showing us his greenish-yellow teeth.

I simply will not vote for a man who has disgusting greenish-yellow teeth. If McCain can't take care of his teeth, how can we expect him to take care of the United States?

Good Lord. why vote for McCain.. It's so cyrstal clear now on who's the real Diplomat here..Go Obama..Sandy, from Canada

Despite McCain's 'smirks' and overbearing posture, Obama was cool and collected. I do not think Obama was overly defensive but he had to respond to some accusations twisted out of context my McCain. Obama's clarity of expression on every issue was striking in contrast to that of McCain, no matter whether his views were always the best. Outside world looks forward to see a statesman at the helm who can engage others on issues to find solutions that offer lasting peace and win-win situations. This requires vision and appropriate strategies to realise that vision. Obama gives a hope in this regard. McCain appeared to suggest that safety of US and its citizens can be ensured only through military means . US cannot afford another combative President in the White House.

On economic issues, Obama was far more at ease. He also appeared more concerned about average citizens while debating on domestic issues.

After yesterdays debate, whomever votes for McCain, needs his head checked!

After yesterday debate it seems openly that McCain will not change foregn policy but Obama will make world a safe Place.

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....

McCain dwelled on his experience...so much so that I had to ask myself...with so much experience in the game why is the country in such a mess today...
Its time for a new basic perspective of understanding for others that Obama seems to "understand" in spite of John's repeated pleas that Barack "doesn't understand"

I believe Sen. Obama won both on the financial crisis and on international issues. Sen. McCain's emphasis on experience is over-rated. Who needs 20th century experience when we are facing 21st century problems.
Besides, Sen. McCain's condescending attitude did not endure him to the audience. I hope Obama wins, because I think he will bring the world a little closer together through his approach to engage with America's adversaries, and in doing so help improve US image in the world.

I think McCain is a disgrace. However, I am not happy that Obama thinks he knows the Russians were wrong and the Georgians were right. I think Obama should take the position that violence should not have been used to solve this dispute by either side and that America should not be shipping weapons around the world because that encourages the use of violence instead of sound international negotiations to resolve disputes. America made Georgia the second biggest recipient of weapons in the past few years, and that is part of why the President of Georgia decided he had the power to attack these small nations that have NEVER been a part of Georgia and want nothing but to be left alone. Also, Obama should not be encouraging NATO expansion, he should be suggesting that perhaps it's time to do away with NATO and to start disarming this dangerous military world. I am sad that Obama sounds so hawkish because I believe if he were getting better advice he would understand military actions are doomed to fail. The Soviets lost in Afghanistan and so will we. We have nothing to win in Iraq that is why we cannot fail or succeed in Iraq, we can just prolong the day that will come when Iraqis will have to figure it out on their own. We must stop giving our surplus weapons away around the world, we must stop giving money away to arm other nations, we must work with all nations to decrease weapon productions. This is what Obama should stand for, otherwise I do sadly feel we have no choice for great leadership. I will be going to the polls to vote AGAINST McCain. I think Obama needs to reconsider his willingness to continue to use military actions to fix Afghanistan or any other instability in the world. The more we bomb the more we destroy any hope of stability. How can they think we can kill all these tribes in the mountains across Afghanistan and Pakistan? I question the judgment of those who believe we can. I saw the Soviet soldiers who lost their arms and legs trying to fight these same factions. Most sickening is to think that Mr. Brzezinski said these words: "We didn't push the Russians to intervene, but we knowingly increased the probability that they would . . . That secret operation was an excellent idea. It had the effect of drawing the Soviets into the Afghan trap. . . The day that the Soviets officially crossed the border, I wrote to President Carter. We now have the opportunity of giving the Soviet Union its Vietnam War." How disgusting Mr. Brzezinski is to have been happy that the men forced to serve in the Soviet Army were going to die because we provoked them into the fight. I think it is disgraceful that our so called foreign experts are working to start up wars rather than working to prevent needless suffering. How many thousands die every day because rather than using diplomacy we are using secret missions to create hate and terror. I despise all these so-called statesmen and wish that Obama would act more like a thinking man than a man trying to sound intelligent yet still offering the same rotten policy of war war war. Yes, I did hear him say that we should be careful how we use our military, however, I heard a lot more that indicated he thinks we have a right to bomb away most of the time as long as we think we need to protect our interests. Yet, Russia is not allowed to take this policy at her border? We cannot stop the Russians from using violence if we go on using it ourselves. I will be voting AGAINST McCain.

McCaine was definitly more factual, he may not have speech qualities of obama however he gets to the point and doesnt need as many words as obama to display his thoughts on issues such as the economy. The debate didnt tell us much as far as new positions Mccaine feels obama lacks experience and Obama feels Mccaine is another term of Bush. I feel that the debate was pretty even and though I am an Obama supporter Mccaine did better then expected, this race keeps getting more interesting with time,

LOOK, here's the facts. Six years ago President Bush and Sen. McCain supported an all-out war in Iraq in their massive hunt for terrorists (which were still in Afghanistan-Pakistan) and WMD (of which only 500 depleted munitions, NOT TONS, were found buried along the Iraq-Iran border). Not exactly really good reasons to be invading a country. $600 billion later, we're still in Iraq, Wall Street wants a $700 billion in funds that we're mostly borrowing from other countries and McCain is still neck and neck with Sen. Obama. Only in America is this possible. Germany and Japan have already leapfrogged the U.S. in greener technologies and yet McCain still supports nuclear, oil, and coal, all of which have negative repercussions on the economy and society. Who wants 45 more nuclear plants so they can dump radioactive waste in your backyard in Nevada? Again only in America is this possible. People are too afraid to open their minds to true possibilities because they are afraid of "change" and I will leave that to each one of you to interpret because it has different meaning to each individual, but just imagine in this race if the Democratic nominee was white and the Republican nominee was a race other than white, how lopsided do you think this race would be??

I beleive that Sen Obama did a good job.

My expectation about the debate is not what I though could be. Many issues were pushed away from the foreigner security and our internal security. McCain did not make any mentions of these issues such as; food, toys or any other products coming from China, Mexico. Canada and other countries to our soil and not be under control How easy could this outbreak viruses and other type of threats. On the other side, Obama concentrates more in Iraq as a current status nations, but forgetting the reason that made us to attack that country, Is until today U.S.A Army and Marines have not found any weapon of mass destruction. Bush administration got us into this mess and causing the destruction in our own country. Those weapons were placed in here with his absurd politics and mediocre. Since 2000 elections and 2004 U.S.A people did not chose wisely. All voted for individual interest, and did not think for the future of our nation. I hope these 8 years help us to learn from those mistakes and become again as one nation for that reason the name of United State of America.
I’m an independent voter and my 100% goes to Obama / Biden 08.

The thing that stood out most to me was the disgusting way that John McCain would not look at Barack Obama. This was totally unacceptable for a Presidential nominee. Is this the kind of tactic he will use when dealing with other people he finds challenging, such as heads of state or whatever? I cannot support such condescending, arrogant behavior. Yuk!

well, Obama did great. McCain is living in the past. Mc cain was a pilot and was POW. He was flying and shelling the ground of vietnam. he doesnt understand the tactics need in the ground. we have seen it in Iraq. we remember what he said before the war and right after the war. this guy is disillusioned. this is 21 century. we need not the animal-Bush kind but the J.F.K HUMANE and GENTLEMAN. As one critic said before as we chose Bush for the second term: " i though Americans have one damn person but i realized that all those Americans are dump enough to end the human species. GOD BLESS AMERICA.

Senator Obama won the debate in my opinion. One reason among many that influenced my opinion is that senator McCain repeatedly stated that the surge in Iraq worked. Does he not realize that the Shiite factions are just biding for time, wheher for sixteen months or for one hundred years, before establishing an Iran-like theocracy in Iraq? Does he not understand that Al Quaeda is entrenched in Afghanistan and in Pakistan, and that the real threat in Iraq is not from Al Quaeda? Senator Obama was right in stating that Iran's greatest threat was Saddam Hussein, and that we eliminated that threat by our invasion of that country. Sooner or later, the Shiites will prevail thanks to the manipulations of this administration and world stability will be even more precarious. Senator McCain "just doesn't get it!"

I thought McCain came across as hostile and patronizing – he rambled quite a bit too. I was struck by how he didn't try to give the country's security going forward as a reason for staying in Iraq – instead, we should stay because some soldiers want to finish the job, because we don't want the deaths to be in vain, because we've invested so much money, etc...

it's time to look to the future. I think Obama had a much better grip on the direction we need to move FORWARD in this country... we can't AFFORD this crazy war...it's an indulgence.

The world in where we are living now is moving faster than it takes to solve a problem within our borders or outside of them. Diplomacy works when you are in a position of strenght. The USA lost its strenght during the Viet Nam War, Lebanon and the handling of Iran during the hostage situation. Then came Al Quieda and here we are moving faster than ever. The next president, needs to be an action president with a commitment and a goal. Mc Cain showed to have both, while Obama wanted to talk rethoric. Go to Iran and speak to them about peace and they will laught on your face. Please America, this is not the end of WWII, but the beggining of the end. Look to your God for wisdom. Vote McCain!

Americans are smart and McCain Can not fool us.

I was not satisfied that either candidate clearly communicated how thier initial budget proposal would achieve thier goals & objectives.
Hopefully this will be addressed in the next deabte when the economy is the primary focus.
Neither candidate clarified thier positions on the content of the "bail out" proposal. WHY? Because these fragile political negotiations require secrecy and each candidate is deeply entangled in this financial market mess regardless of thier stated positions.
On foreign policy specifically IRAQ I was not surprised with McCain's reiteration of the incumbent's position. I'm convinced that McCain does not grasp or accept the fundamental issues of the region where the West is perceived as aggresive colonialist's & military occupiers. My impression of Obama was that he had a good sense of the problems with the current US foreign policy approach and appears to have a sound approach to improve our relationships around the world. I was not convinced that he effectively got his message across to the majority of the US population who like McCain only see foreign policy as what wars are we fighting now & are we winning?
After this debate it has become more important for me to know WHO will be in the candidates cabinet and who will be his most trusted advisors.

When a man can not look you in the eye, he has no business being President. What do you think would happen if McCain did that to another foreign leader? He would have NO respect, even before you opened your mouth.

GO OBAMA/BIDEN 08

I think that the debate went pretty well despite some uncomfortable moments between the two candidates. McCain, as expected, showed his superior knowledge and experience in foreign policy, and no doubt many Americans connected with his easy, folksy demeanor. Obama did better than expected – holding his own even on foreign policy and national security, and coming across as reasonably knowledgeable, self-assured and presidential. Hearing both their plans and ideas, one might conclude that either would make a good president.

But will the three presidential debates alone help voters decide on who they should elect as next president of the United States of America? Perhaps Americans should seriously give weight to the vice-presidential debate on October 2 to find their answer.

The negative comments I have read about Sen. McCain on the recent debate is a reflection of what the media has been feeding the public's mind for quite sometime now.
it seems all too obvious that Sen. Obama is being helped by the media in terms of highlighting his comments that play well with the American people while leaving out Sen. McCain's soundbites that are far more well-meaning, significant, and reflective of his experience, expertise and sense of leadership. The media has much too often downplayed McCain's tried and tested record of service yet drumbeats Obama's phenomenal talent to move and inspire through sheer rhetoric. McCain, in this debate, has been criticized by the press for all the pettiest reasons e.g. his lack of eye contact, his alleged smirk, his mispronunciation etc., while ignoring Obama's disrespect and harsh comments for a senior and well-respected colleague/opponent, Sen. McCain. Obama was barely criticized for his sexist and nasty remarks toward Sen. Hillary and Gov. Palin in many occassions, and lest we forget his downright wrong assessment of Bill Clinton's presidency and legacy during the primaries. But why is the Press more tolerant and less critical of Obama? The answer is – BECAUSE OBAMA MAKES A GOOD STORY! That's what the media has been after, all these time. A good story to tell. Sadly, many are falling for this trick; many are buying what the media is selling them.
The world is going through extremely difficult times and the thought that the US might possibly elect Obama to the presidency based on his youth and charisma is far too disturbing and has caused me sleepless nights. If the last 8 years under Bush were devastating for many, the next 4 under Obama will be disastrous to all! It is Obama who will be more of the same, bec Obama (like Bush) is NOT ready to lead the most powerful nation under these most pressing times. Why risk it?

foreign affairs was supposed to be mccain's domain. however the way obama pointed directly at mccain when talking about the war in iraq, mccain was certainly caught on wrong foot. obviously obama has a lot to learn on foreign affairs but the way he presented himself as one who is focused on consensus compared to mccains approach of aggression will be really well received across the world. we dont need more of the same. if an opinion poll is conducted globally to decide who should be the next president, obama would win hands down.

The debate portrayed McCain as too old and ill health to be President. His back up plan is Sarah Palin? That's an insult to all of us. He was short of subtance to the questions asked but too long telling old time stories a typical has-been senator. I am a registerd Republican but I am voting for Obama.

I was so proud of what a gentleman Sen. Obama was. Manners make such a difference! Even if that is learned in kindergarten.
After Mc Cain brought up the bracelet and Sen. Obama said he had one too, Mc Cain seemed angry. The discussion we had at the party I was at centered around Rx and health ins. 3 of the people were cancer patients and had unbelieveable stories of what they go through even with ins. Many ins. co.limit how much they will pay and pay 60% of what they think the procedure should cost not what it does cost. Everyone felt that Sen. Obama had more empathy for what people are going through. For a debate where Obama wa s not suppose to do well he did very well.

It makes perfect since that Obama said Russia and Gerorgia should be held accountable for their actions. Russia did invade but Georgia retaliated like the little brother trying to fight his older brother's friend. Even though they are defending themselves there is no way they can pop a zit on Russia's behind. That puts America in a position that we have to defend our NATO ally but that means a confrontation with Russia that would further strain the US military and totally deflate the American economy to where we will be then bought out by other countries period.

McCain seems like he is just worried about whose gun is bigger than whose and that Russia maybe returning to KGB ways.(Probably so). McCain will sacrifice our country because of his " I'm a bad a** McGuyver James Bond who was captured beaten and I didn't speak a word and now I'm angry and it's time I get some true payback and respect because I'm old, wrinkly with a 20 something years younger wife and a smile that resembles the mummy of king Tut." People please tell me if I'm wrong.

I mean no disrespect Senator McCain.

Respective comments are telling me that we have not been honest with ourselves. I am Obama's fan, but I respectfully give the 1st debate to Mccain. He has vast experience in both foriegn and deomestic policy. Matter of fast, it appears in some instance that Obama needed extra study. Let us admit that our minds are made up and we needed no debate.

About the debate in a generally view wasnt interesting at all, none of each candidate said something important or big news to the americans.

About the way they address to each other McCain was center and always said "Senator Obama" didnt saw him directly but is not important issue. Obama call McCain "Tom""JIm""Jhon" etc he was so out of focus and nervous besides the 5 timer he said McCain is right, showing lack of experience and lack of preparation.

About the Questions made by the conductor, they should leed more questions on real solutions proposal or economical package solutions and further 1st actions of each ones on Foreign Politics, Inter Politics, Medical Assistance, Jobs Creations, Morgage Programs, Ilegal Inmigrant, Oil Problems.

CNN stop saying obama wins debate try to focus independant view of each candidate wich is what people need to decide their vote.

I know a lot of people in politics who have spoken with Obama. The guy can speak well in public but he is an IDIOT. Moreover, he stole Clinton's healthcare plan. People do not know him all TOO WELL in person. I'm scared of what will happen to the US when he gets elected.

Many thanks to Senator Barack Obama!
I wish the American people make the right decision and vote for Senator Obama and not for Senator McCain. They should prefer progress and safe future and reject primitive, 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 and qualified for the job. Someone who is not even able to operate a computer should not talk about other people's capability to understand important issues. He should stop offending Senator Obama.

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 “tactics”. Senator McCain should consult the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary of Current English” to realize that these two terms are synonyms. I hope 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 Iraq. A lot of European people condemn the Bush administration for its really useless war in Iraq. America has lost a lot of sympathy and respect. Senator Obama would be able to restore America's imagine in the world.
The majority of the German people do not agree with the aggressive American politics of invasion and destruction of other countries. I hope that Bush will soon disappear from the political scene. He should go back to Texas and count his oil barrels. McCain, Palin, Lady Lynn Forrester de Rothschild etc. should follow him. They all should read some good books (e.g. by Sinclair Lewis, Kant would be too difficult for them to understand).
Veronica

Hi Cristina, who told you that about Sen.Obama? or you just wanna tell lies like the dumb mccain and the dumber bush.
i really feel sad about your opinions!!!

Comment to Christina's input:
By calling Senator Obama an "idiot" you have clearly demonstrated who the biggest idiot is. That' s you.
Another example for someone being an idiot is when he/she does not even know how many houses he/she owns but has, nevertheless, the impertinence of promising to improve the living conditions of working people who have lost the only house they owned!

Why is Obama so ancy to invade Afganistan? Most of his Obamabots don't even believe Osama is a real person.

After seeing Obama and McCain side by side, there is no doubt that Mr. McCain is a very aggresive, narrow-minded, and arrogant person.
It is very obvious that HE IS PART OF THE PROBLEM and not the solution. On the other hand, Mr. Obama IS a conciliatory man, a person with whom I would feel confident when dealing with world leaders. He will not push us into unnecessary wars.

During the entire debate Mr. Obama looked at McCain many times and there was sincerity in his eyes. He was approachable, warm, polite, educated; he even agreed many times with his contender. McCain was stiff,arrogant, distant and you could feel his anger and hatred coming through.

One more thing, at the end of the debate the Obamas crossed the stage to greet the McCains, a polite, educated and decent gesture; one, that I am sure, the McCains, and their millions of dollars, would never have thought of. The McCains epitomize the elitest class of the United States that has pushed our country into total financial and moral bankruptcy.

Thanks to people like McCain and Bush they have totally sold-out our country´s future for the next several generations. UNITED STATES WILL NEVER BE AGAIN THE COUNTRY THAT HAS BEEN THANKS TO THEM.

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, my family and I shall cast our votes for Mr. Barack Obama.

While some think this is a Fashion Show it is not, it is about real problems facing the country in the decades to come.

While we are now facing a major financial meltdown, and our current president has just sign another Defense appropriations bill for 612 Billion; people on here seemed to be concerned about how the candidates looked, versus what was said.

Obama was a Clear winner, he stayed on the issues, unlike McCain who referenced Regan at least 4 times. Wrapping himself in the American flag Will Not solve the myriad of problems, including, Social Security, Immigration and the war in IRAQ and Afghanistan.

Good Lord! The only obvious thing at the end of the debate:
I do not want McCain to handle our international affairs. He was very condescending, petulant, arrogant and narrow-minded during the debate. He did not even look at Obama. He acted more like a school bully than a presidential candidate. Yuk! His true arrogant self came through. Not to mention his unexpressive rich trophy wife...

BOTH ARE FAKE PERSONALITIES, DO THEY TALK FOR WHAT NONSENSE THEY WENT INTO IRAQ AND WHAT TALIBAN GOING TO DO ANY HARM WITH SIMPLE GUNS, THEY DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO USA ANYWAYS. WHY THEY DO NOT TELL PEOPLE WHAT IS THE INTREST THEY HAVE IN MSULIM COUNTRIES, JUST TO CAPTURE WHAT THEIR REAL GOD BLESSED THEM.

Obama agreed in his debates that there was no Taliban when they went into Iraq, they all are drunk leaders of drunk nation.

The comments I have read about Sen. McCain on the recent debate is a reflection of what the media has been feeding the public’s mind for quite sometime now.
It seems all too obvious that Sen. Obama is being helped by the media in terms of highlighting his comments that play well with the American people while leaving out Sen. McCain’s soundbites that are far more well-meaning, significant, and reflective of his experience, expertise and sense of leadership. The media has much too often downplayed McCain’s tried and tested record of service yet drumbeats Obama’s phenomenal talent to move and inspire through sheer rhetoric. McCain, in this debate, has been criticized by the press for all the pettiest reasons e.g. his lack of eye contact, his alleged smirk, his mispronunciation etc., while ignoring Obama’s disrespect and harsh comments for a senior and well-respected colleague/opponent, Sen. McCain. Obama was barely criticized for his sexist and nasty remarks toward Sen. Hillary and Gov. Palin in many occassions, and lest we forget his downright wrong assessment of Bill Clinton’s presidency and legacy during the primaries. But why is the Press more tolerant and less critical of Obama? The answer is – BECAUSE OBAMA MAKES A GOOD STORY! That’s what the media has been after, all these time. A good story to tell. Sadly, many are falling for this trick; many are buying what the media is selling them.
The world is going through extremely difficult times and the thought that the US might possibly elect Obama to the presidency based on his youth and charisma is far too disturbing and has caused me sleepless nights. If the last 8 years under Bush were devastating for many, the next 4 under Obama will be disastrous to all! It is Obama who will be more of the same, bec Obama (like Bush) is NOT ready to lead the most powerful nation under these most pressing times. Why risk it?

What happened America?

It is hilarious and sometimes just fascinating to watch politicians screw up! You have McCain and Obama going at each other everyday on CNN, while BUSH is just to eager to finish-up and get out of there alltogether.

One often gets the impression that Washington is being managed by Hollywood’s directors, instead of people really interested and committed to helping Americans. Isn’t it time that people like Warren Buffet or George Soros are called in to advise on pressing matters such as how to fix the economy? If you want to get anywhere in business you need experience or at least a track record to show your expertise. If you want to get anywhere in politics you need a big mouth and be able to wave at people!

It’s about time we stand up and demand that leaders need to show there skill sets and expertise at least in one field, before we ellect them to parliament.

The likes of Buffet have donated in person more money than all politicians put together, nevermind how much he has made for 100’s of corporations and 1000’s of people. Yet these people are never called to help on matters such as the country’s finance! Why not? These people have more skills than half of capitol hill put together!

It’s about time that leaders in business are called in to help! In fact it only makes business sence. You wouldn’t trust any unqualified person to work with your own life savings, however we trust politicians to play with our lives, our pensions, our safety and they even send our children to war!

Wake up and start demanding some criteria of expertise and due dilligence! Stop listening to the gift of the gabs and start insisting on proven credentials and results.

I am not advocating politics at all, however I believe it is time that the average person out there starts thinking politics like we think business and our own own daily lives. Certainly the top job in the country should be given to the top qualified! Where are the cv's and credentials of our leaders or are we just complacent and ignorant when it comes to ellecting our leaders. Running countries is certainly a hell of a job and a bigger responsibility than running even the biggest corporation out there???

After all they aren't just running the country, they are running us, our lives, our businesses our future! Yet what do we do about this top job?

Well, we attend rallies and watch television and some of us comment on blogs or send emails. Is this enough as corporate citizens or is it time we start fixing our attitude towards our countries as we would fix our businesses if run by incompetent employees?

The chinese have a saying that the "fish rots from the head" – and isn't this true?

Lets start advocating responsibility and perhaps even change a few laws! If a top executive screws up or is faulted on running his company down, he/she normally pays dearly for this! If our top man however runs our country down, he is just patted on the back after his term in office and gets credited for being a bad president, but soon forgotten!

What about the damage? Why do we leave things till it is nearly to late? Well the answer is quite simply that we are just to lazy to get involved UNTILL its normally to late! Wake up and take action now. Get involved in your own town and start working on your own leaders. If we cant fix things from the top, lets fix things from the bottom – up!

We used to be proud of our leaders and they were icons in their day! What has changed then?

YOU AND ME!

Our parents were hard working and involved in everything! We are lazy and simply wont give our neighbours the time of day, never mind show up at the local councill meetings! We waste our time watching television and spending our lives on crap! Would your grandfarther have done this?

Never they were to busy with the family, friends, business, or their communities and churches. Thats why the leaders of the past were good and our countries flourished and grew from strength to strength! They worked their ways through the ranks, were chosen and cultivated for the top jobs, by ordinary people like us! They weren't part of the elite boys club or born as the chosen one! They were hard working people!

It is easy to point fingers and to cry fowl when it's to late! Now it needs mircales to get things back to normal and why?

Because we simply weren't involved from the beginning! We were to busy living our dream instead of working our dream!

Come on America lets get ourselves together again – lets rise early – involve ourselves in our communities – fix things from the bottom up and demand our demands NOW!

Go to my blog: http://chasemorgan.wordpress.com

God bless you!

From Chase Morgan

Obama was great but could have said more things to the point so the general population could understand more what he is all about. Less is more! I think he is sometimes too polite with that unscrupulous old man (McCain) that relies in belittling Obama and in his experience of being in the war to get votes. It is not because you fought in the war and “got caught” that makes you an expert in war issues. There is so much a President has to know and apply when facing adversities or dealing with other superpowers. I feel for this country if he gets elected. First he is too old and has the old mental set that is definitely not working, is there? Second his first decision for the country was to choose for VP someone that has no experience and can’t even think and speak with logic! She doesn’t seem to understand the meaning of what is required of a VP and potentially of a President! What was he thinking? It's clear he wasn't thinking about the country he is thinking about winning and getting the votes of those people that are uneducated. “Give to the masses (to the stupid people) what they want mentality.” It is clear as crystal! Obama is young, charismatic, educated, and confident and is prepared to deal with more than one issue at a time. He is the best choice for this country without a doubt!

From Walnut Creek, California

Obama needs to speak more clear and louder! We need the Change in Washington NOW! Less tax for the Middle class means more money in our pocket!

No way no McCain!

From Walnut Creek, California

Keep wondering how the Democrats were able to manage International relations, countries supposedly hot spot for terrorism without going to fight a war, yet the Republicans are always quick at starting one. Clinton would have managed Iraq/Iran/Afghanistan crisis better without necessarily engaging in a war. The 9/11 may not have happened. Republicans seems to be war mongers with faulted intelligence. There is need for change, yes, back to the Clinton years, the Jummy Carter's. Theirs were peaceful and booming period for America. The choice of a Democrat as a president is just what is required

Until I hear McCain say that Bush screwed up and Obama say that Pelosi is ineffective (Hey, lowest rating President and lowest rating Congress, right?) I really could care less about both of them. I don't hear reality. I hear politics. Nothing concrete.

Hmmm. I really pity the Americans under the leadership of John Mccain. This would be better imagined. I'm begining to think that Mccain would be worse than Bush. I can see war with many perceived enemies of America where a little diplomacy would have solve the issue. The republicans are known for this. All that is needed is a change from this present hulaballoo. An Obama govt. seem to have this in stock. May God help the Americans to decide a good leader.

I think they both stink! They both want amnesty for illegals, they both support free trade, they very reason for the lack of good paying jobs, and they both are out of touch with real american issues. Obama and his wife attended a racist church for years and they are both lawyers . Mccain and his wife are filthy rich and have NO idea how we are struggling.

HMMM, very interesting. Senator McCain was debating to an invisible person located to the right of his lectern. Senator Obama was standing to his left. Could it be that he is dumb, deaf, and blind?

McCain won..he took center stage. It didn't take a rocket scientist
to determine who stood out!

McCain did a good job as he worked through the Washington situation and also lived up to the obligation to be at the debate with Obama. McCain held his own and had Obama on his heels many times throughout the night. Obaha gets so much positive PR it is hard for anyone to outshine him. It is unfortunate that the media feels they have to run this election.

Unfortunatly, I was not able to catch the middle of the debate but only the first and last parts of it. I am not impressed with either candidate's answers, however. The GOP is not at all responsive to the people's concerns, especially about health care and the environment, so I simply can not take a chance on them. I believe that Obama should take more of an firm stance with McCain and look stronger but I do believe in him none the less. I look forward to the next debate.

All I saw tonight was Mcbush and Mcshame from John!! The man is truely senile and very disrepectful! What we need in this country is a change! We are going to have the biggest party ever when gw leaves the white house. What we as democrates have to do is really watch out that the reps don't cheat and steal the election like they did in 2000! My question is how in the hell can you call yourself a christian reps when you lie and cheat the way you do, and I will never ever understand why you have killed over 4000 men and women in Irak! Is that christian? I think not!! End this sinceless war!!!!!!

Obama 08

McCain, seemed a more knowledgeable then Obama, I think Obama was more nervous this time. Also I believe because Obama was not prompted he was not as good at speaking.
I need to go with a person with more experience.

cnn has become a one side tabloid?

I think Obama won the debate hands down. He was eloquent and concise. John Mc Cain kept repeating his experience but did not present a good rebutal to any of the issues in the forum, did not once look at Obama. It will be interesting to see how his runnig mate fares,
probably the same if she has Mc Cain coaching her.

I think Obama did wonderful, and he didn't lie, or do dirty politics like McCain did. People need to vote for the man not the party. Biden was an excellent choice for Obama, as he has been in Congress for years . McCain did alot of lying and untruths and said things taken out of context of what Obama said , McCain twisted things around alot on what Obama had said. Seems to me that Obama came prepared. And McCain came to smear.

I was disappointed in the debate because of McCain. Mr. McCain seemed to arrigant and disrespectful of Obama all during the debate.
Mr. MeCain does not seem confident enough to let Obama talk and critical of every word out of Obama's mouth. Obama showed professional attention to respecting Mr. McCain, but was not treated in the same respectful manner by Mr. McCain. I wonder if Mr. McCain would treat foreign leaders like he has treated Obama during the debate. This could lead to disaster under McCain's leadership. We need a Strong leader with control and care of leadership skills. I feel Obama has all these qualities. I do not think Palin is a good choice for VP...if she should take the role as President I would fear for what would become of America...She seems very foney and uneducated about world affairs. She looks like she needs to be home baking cookies for her children! We do not need her in the White House!
I am grateful for Mr. McCain's Military role in his lifetime and for what he done for our country, but this is not what we should elect a President for. He is to old to do a good job as President.
Our country needs Professional caring leadership and Obama has my vote. He cares for America and the working class. I doubt the McCain's would understand anything about how poor people have to live and what they have to live without to exist....and no hope for a better future under the present leadership we have had. George Bush has made a mess of everything, and obviously is ready to get back to Texas. I really can't think of one thing he done for the betterment of the country. Can you? Our healthcare system is a mess, oil prices, food prices completely out of control. We cannot take 4 more years of the same old leadership we did't have to begin with. People in America are suffering!!! Wake up America and elect a President for the right reasons. Someone who cares for Americans first....its time to stop giving so much to other countries who hate us so much....God has blessed our country for so long but he won't put up with what is going on much longer....wait and see.

If Senator McCain does not show comon curtesy and respect (treat other as you want to be treated) to his opponent. Why do we think he would treat other world leaders any better. He show disrespect and destain for Senator Obama. This is not the way to look or act presidential.

R700 Billion Dollar Bail Out Fails!

Well there we have it, the first round to getting the "bail out" plan to be passed has officially failed! Although the markets, the top news agencies, chief economists and the likes of Warren Buffet have predicted that America has no choice but to accept the proposal – it has failed!

Even I am surprised to say the least, as I am sure most of you are too! After reading comments such as – PASS THE PLAN OR FACE ECONOMIC MELTDOWN – it has done just that! The plan has been failed in congress.

The question certainly on everybody's mind now is, are they mad, are they trying to ruin the country, or are they once again simply playing politics instead of thinking about America first?

The question is who is to blame again? Someone is going to blame someone else and Republicans are going to blame Democrats and vice versa. As the news breaks on CNN the latest statistics show that the total votes for the plan were 205 and against were 228! Democrats for the plan = 140, against = 95. Republicans for the plan = 65, against = 133.

Does this matter who was for and who was against – NO IT DOESN'T! Who brought the plan to the table in the first place – YES GUESS WHO?

The fact is it did not pass and we can now either FIX THE BLAME, or for once Congress can sit down and START FIXING THE PROBLEM – NOW!

The fact that people are already blaming each other for delivering a bad speach – I am referring to the Republican comments on Nancy Pelosi's speach, is abolutely BULLSHIT!

COME ON AMERICA – we are grown ups, not bloody kids! Who are these people? A plan of this nature is certainly based on "documented facts", "written drafts" and NOT ON SOMEBODY'S BLOODY SPEACH!

AMERICA IS IN TROUBLE – GRAVE TROUBLE, yet we still accommodate leaders who are voicing their political emotions and how they feel about the other!

WHAT ABOUT US YOU FOOLS?

What about the people in the middle class who are fighting to survive day by day, and simply don't have the luxury of waiting for you boys to finish your party games and your power fits??

Please read my post on BARBARIANS AT THE GATE and you will relaise excatly what I mean! We have more enemies of ignorance in our midst than all the terrorists in this world put together!

WORK THIS OUT – AND DO IT NOW!

Visit my blogg at: http://chasemorgan.wordpress.com

Regards

Chase Morgan

Why should we, the American people who pay taxes bail out the bankers when they have losses, if the bankers NEVER SHARE THEIR PROFITS with the general public?

debating is just part of leadership. contributions are another part?

Where is Obamas contributions coming from........Saudi Aribia. foreign nations some from our enemies.....
check this fact out on the fact reports..... when you find this out then decide if you want Obama as your next president....

the facts are hard to over look... this guy can not be trusted.. he may sound good in the debates but when you look at the whole picture he is the worst choice for the presidents job....

check this outy folks now lets see is c.n.n. will post this

I felt that Obama just seemed to talk about the here and now... and the everyday Joe. McCain seems to tell voters that "he learned his lesson" about Republican policies. I don't buy the "sheriff" title and learning his lesson mentioned in the same speech. Seems dishonest and misleading to me. Obama talked about the guy on main street being able to afford gas and buy laptops for the kids. These are real concerns of people worse of than ever in 2008. This Republican is voting for Obama. Call him a left winger but it isn't left to make things a fairer playing field by setting limits. The abuses of corporations and all this financial mess will cause those limits. We all know the "level" playing field we have had the last 8 years (sarcasm).

Obama won this one. McCain came across like an old man still living in the shadows of the Cold War. His foreign policy seemed to be nothing more than 'let's go to war with anyone who disagrees with us.' If this man gets in office, we will be in Iran within a year and there will be draft. McCain also seemed really negative. I know Obama took a few jabs at him, but McCain seemed to respond negatively with every response. Every time Obama presented what seemed to be an articulate well-thought out response McCain would respond back with an attack that did very little to answer the question or advance the discussion.

Sadly electing McCain or Obama will not turn around our crumbling economy and as we speak , we are still spending money we do not have ...and why ?because America chose to elect some one who made the reserve of hard earned tax dollars their own personal piggy bank. we will be in debt for years to come. i am 17 years old and even i know that this mess will not be sloved in my life time. i just hope who ever is elected will do this country a favor and stop spending money we don't have .

I felt McCain came off rather cynical at times and especially in the first portion of the debate, used his time unwisely to dance around the question at hand without giving a straight answer. Maybe buying himself some time to think?

In my opium I don’t think McCain can even read what is being written for him. If a debate was to happen again try taking out the ear peace where no one can feed information and he will crash. As to the US economy it sank deeper then the Titanic. Obama Has his hand full in this field and good luck to him.

If McCain does not know how many house he owns, how can Americans expect him to know the issues that average Americans are going through right now. It’s very clear that that current distraction is 100% responsible for the crisis we are living in America SUPORTED BY MCCAIN.

Moreover, this is a person, who comes across with his own manipulation tactics marked in his forehead towards other people. Every time I remember the way he disrespected Obama, I get sick of my stomach, not only that, MCCAIN IS JUST ANOTHER BUSH +.

Based on expectations, Biden needed to put in a pretty good performance and Palin one that was merely acceptable. Both managed to do this.

Ok everyone, please let us be honest and not stubborn. Palin did not clarify her positions, is obviously not aware of what she is doing and cannot even be compared to Biden. In fact, Biden for president! He did an excellent job and proved exactly why there needs to be a fundamental change in the White House.

Biden was far superior and came across as more honest imo. Palin had little to offer and i can remember very little of what she said – which i think is a poor reflection on the substance {or lack of} of her political knowledge. It was quite obvious to me Palin was out of her league. In fact, Biden struck me as even more presidential than Obama was during his debate with McCain.

I watched Obama McCain debate and i must say i was disappointed in McCain. I was particularly interested in the body language of the two candidates in addition to whatever esle they were saying. I saw in McCain's body language a high level of arrogance and disrespect for his opponent. He was very dismissive of Obama and sometimes you could even see hatred in his eyes. To me it is like he sees Obama as a threat to his personal ambition. His choice of VP which is clearly to win womens vote also explains this personal ambition on his part. He is terribly unpolished. It also appears that his desire to continue to fight in Iraq is not about America, it is about his own personal humiliation in Vietman. There is relative peace in Iraq not just because of the surge but because Iraqi factions decided to turn against 'al qaeda'

Obama on the other hand appeared very warm and genuine. He presented himself as somebody who is bright and integiligent yet willing to learn more. His choice of VP also explains this desire to make up for his perceived deficiency in foreign policy.

Obama is the new face of America that the world would like to see. Not arrogance and war mongering as it is being promoted by McCain.

Dayo

Palin appears terribly unp

I watched Obama- McCain debate and i must say i was disappointed in McCain. I was particularly interested in the body language of the two candidates in addition to whatever else they were saying. I saw in McCain's body language a high level of arrogance and disrespect for his opponent. He was very dismissive of Obama and sometimes you could even see hatred in his eyes. To me it is like he sees Obama as a threat to his personal ambition. His choice of VP which is clearly to win women's votes also explains this personal ambition on his part. He is terribly unpolished. It also appears that his desire to continue to fight in Iraq is not about America, it is about his own personal humiliation in Vietman. There is relative peace in Iraq not just because of the surge but because Iraqi factions decided to turn against 'al qaeda'

Obama on the other hand appeared very warm and genuine. He presented himself as somebody who is bright and integiligent yet willing to learn more. His choice of VP also explains this desire to make up for his perceived deficiency in foreign policy.

Obama is the new face of America that the world would like to see. Not arrogance and war mongering as it is being promoted by McCain.

Dayo

McCain's choice of Palin as VP candidate is to me an insult to the American people. That woman is so brash. If America is to be taken seriously McCain and Palin should be very far from the sit of power otherwise America may kiss world leadership goodbye. She is so shallow. If she feels that the best way to get votes is by calling herself and other people some funny names then she has a lot to learn. I find her quite rude and untutored.

Well as an international student studying in Canada not in America somehow is cause of bush regime.

The reason behind this is the great American image of great country of the world has been hampered by the bush foreign policies. I feel lucky to get opportunity to watch the historical debate between vice presidential candidates.

I am so impressed with Joe Biden extra ordinary personality and experience that he has put into give a debate a picture of real debate. Whereas Sarah Palin's winking eyes statements about herself an Mccain campaign giving me false impression that is she really standing in a middle of a debate or my I dreaming about her with meeting her in a bar.

It is so ironic that people of United states of America would even give a thought to compare both the candidates as they have a best choice as Joe Biden as there vice president who has potential and experience to handle foreign policies. He and Obama has vision to restore Great country image of America around the globe. Whereas Mccain plan to start III world war by not ending the war is just same the whole world is suffering in bush regime .

As a non voter big faith in America and its people seems to me that they need a change with giving away there country's power in the hands of Democrates lead by Barack and Joe Biden.