Since virtually every politcal blog out there will be weighing in on the debates, I thought I'd start off the week with my opinion on the one this thursday.
For at least a year, President Bush has been called every loathsome name available. He's been called a liar, a traitor, a murderer, arrogant, etc. The democrats, as they vied for the democratic nomination, numerous 527 groups, surrogates for the Kerry campaign and even left-wing wackos like Michael Moore have gotten in their verbal punches. The result? The public has grown used to hearing harsh words about the President. The mud slinging has energized the democrats' to vote for "anybody but Bush", has enraged Republicans and generally been ignored by everyone else. As a result, there is really nothing the Democrats can say about the President that hasn't already been said.
On the other hand, John Kerry is considered a very skillful debater. (Some might declare him to be the Master-Debater) But he isn't known as someone who comes off as being very likable and winning a debate based on the actual content isn't as important as appearing presidential. Then there's John Kerry's 20 year record in the Senate and his multiple positions on important issues.
IMHO, If Bush performs respectably in this first debate it won't be the end of the world for him. Time is running out for John Kerry though and he needs to come off as a regular guy, someone with whom people can relate. If Bush does really well, this could be the beginning of the end for Kerry. I think the debates are Kerry's last chance for any substantial movement in polling numbers. When the smoke clears from the three debates, a tie for John Kerry is basically a loss.
Very good points all. In particular your views on what each man must accomplish. The sad thing is that you are correct that the content does not really matter, just appear presidential or like a "regular guy, someone with whom people can relate" and you improve your chances of winning.
I would much rather a leader that looked like a toad, but was really made of something than a leader that looked presidential, but had not a moral compass. In our nation presidents are selected, perhaps, by the will of "the people" (whatever "the people" means) and unfortunately "the people" are not too smart.
Posted by: Armando at September 27, 2004 01:59 PMArmando,
The saying goes, "people get the leader they deserve", and unfortunately it's often true. Fortunately for all of us, democracy has proven to be pretty tough to break.
-jdm