Debate Roundup

Despite my lack of commentary here, I did watch the first debate and I was very excited to see Obama perform so well. He looked commanding and honest, and came across as much more fair-minded and bipartisan than Cotton Hill John McCain.

As to the specific issues they discussed, nothing in particular stood out to me as I've already become quite familiar with their stances and rhetoric: John McCain ranted about Russia and Iran a bit, Obama pledged soft power recovery and wiser use of armed forces (might want to give Surge 2.0 in Afghanistan a second thought, Barry).

I do approve of Jim Lehrer's insistence that the candidates address each other, since I feel like it's way too easy to simply talk past one another in American politics (watch England's House of Commons if you want to see legitimate political debate). I thought Obama used it to his advantage, showing that he could directly confront McCain mano-a-mano on things like Iraq ("You were wrong" - solid!). McCain simply seemed exasperated and weirdly refused to address Obama directly.

What I'm really looking forward to is Round 2 with policy heavyweight Joe Biden vs. bitch heavyweight Sarah Palin. It's. Going. To. Be. AWESOME.

As advertised, your roundup:

Item 1: Debate reactions. Pundits generally agree Obama won. American people generally agree Obama won. Obama's poll numbers are finally approaching what they should have been throughout, and things are only looking more and more favorable for him. Sweet.

Item 2: Bailout? More like Failout! What happened, John? Weren't the House Republicans supposed to straighten up and toe the line when you got to town? I've noticed your conservative support has ebbed, to say the least, since your Palin plebeian-pleaser. Guess there are still some smart people on the right. At least you know what to do in a such a crisis - blame the black dude!

Item 3: Got any investments? I hope you're enjoying your roller coaster ride. Somehow, it doesn't seem quite as fun as Six Flags, does it? Failing banks are eating other failing banks. Washington is trying in vain to provide a solution for New York and causing even more short-term instability. Bush, obviously, is ignoring them them and having his way no matter what anyone says. It just makes me want to take a vacation and let it all blow over. If only I had some investments I could cash in...