The VP Debate: Both Did Well; Biden Won

by David Epstein

I'd say that Palin did well, but she was hampered by two factors, one in her control and one not. Out of her control was the fact that she had to defend a set of policy positions that are real losers as far as the public is concerned. So she had no comeback to the remark that McCain isn't a real maverick, nor could she rise above generalities of "fighting for American" and descend to the land of actual policy.

In her control is the fact that her knowledge of the facts was broader than before, but still a bit thin. So the debate was about 1/2 hour too long for her; she sounded repetitive in the ending part, while Biden showed emotion and ended on a strong note. Plus, she had a few deer in the headlights moments when she was asked a question she wasn't prepared for. On the use of nuclear weapons and the VP's powers, her mouth was engaged before her brain was in gear and she ended up spouting a bit of her trademark drivel.

But Palin held her own for the most part, which was, needless to say, leaps and bounds above expectations.

The real revelation of the night was Biden, the forgotten man in the quartet of candidates. He was for the most part precise, effective, and tough without ever appearing condescending. As I said, he was the more emotional of the candidates, while Palin seemed more robotic in comparison. And he consistently flaunted the Democrats' advantage on the issues while tying Palin and McCain to the policies of the Bush administration.

So Palin did well and did much to erase the stigma that she might drag the ticket down all on her own, but in the end a small to moderate sized win for Biden.

Now let's see what the focus groups have to say.

Comments

[C. Mallios]

Mr. Epstein,

Most of the time I do not respond to your bias comments, although I do enjoy them. However, At this time I am not sure if you were watching the same debate I was. Ms. Pallin defenitely won the debate, and I think you should at list admit that factor, whether you like her or not. She may not play in liberal NY, but for the rest of the country she is a refreshing departure from the politicians of Washington. She is not as dumb as the liberal press have made her out to be.
Thanks