My Three Cents

Wow, this post-debate coverage is heady stuff. I've forgotten what I seen and only remember that Kerry won! Kerry won! He's got the momentum! Yep, it's not really about my own personal analysis, it's about how the general public saw it and how it plays out in the media.

Day One looks great, with most people saying Kerry won the debate. Bush's tired repeating of one or two talking points wore people out. His body language and facial expressions were a catalog of indifference, pettiness and a man deeply uncomfortable in his own skin. It's probably the worst debating night of his life.

Now how do we keep the Bushies from setting up debate two as his chance for a comeback? Keep repeating what John said: all Kerry has to do is look presidential.

Keep saying, "Oh George Bush had a terrible night so of course he's going to do better the second time." Beat them to the comeback story so that even if Bush shines it's only what the Dems insisted all along was the least we can expect from Bush. "Remember, he's won every debate of his career before these so of COURSE he'll learn from his mistakes and end all that wretched body language (weren't those grimaces of his a hoot, Matt and Katie?) and do much, much better. Frankly, we're just hoping Kerry can hold his own, Ted. You know Bush is going to improve dramatically in the next debate."

Raise the expectations to grandiose heights and then watch him fall short and admit, gee, maybe he really is in trouble.