Friday, October 08, 2004
Debate Tonight
The CW seems to be that Bush will do better in the town hall format. He is seen as more of a charmer and this will play to his strength. However, I see some real danger for him here. With the public asking questions, I think it will be much harder to predict what the questions will be. This means that the candidates can't just practice a bunch of rote responses. Instead, they must be quick on their feet, which is exactly what Bush failed to do in the first debate. I am NOT convinced this format will be to his advantage.
On the other hand, he probably prepared more assiduously this time. I would hope he won't make all the same mistakes as last time.
The CW seems to be that Bush will do better in the town hall format. He is seen as more of a charmer and this will play to his strength. However, I see some real danger for him here. With the public asking questions, I think it will be much harder to predict what the questions will be. This means that the candidates can't just practice a bunch of rote responses. Instead, they must be quick on their feet, which is exactly what Bush failed to do in the first debate. I am NOT convinced this format will be to his advantage.
On the other hand, he probably prepared more assiduously this time. I would hope he won't make all the same mistakes as last time.
