The VP Debate

Wow. I guess the first thing I would say about the VP debate last night is that I came away much more impressed with both candidates than I did last week when the would-be presidents faced off. Biden was sharp, on point and much more poised behind the podium than I have previously seen him. Palin was well-prepared, charming and didn't say anything to give media-types something to jump on.

Perhaps my expectations were too low for both of the running mates. In the recent weeks, Biden has asked a guy in a wheelchair to stand up and lied about being shot at in Iraq. Palin has said she reads every newspaper in the country and been caught like a deer in the headlights when asked if she approves of the Bush Doctrine. Neither candidate had a moment like that last night.

On the issues, Biden was strong economics and foreign policy, unlike Obama last week. He was not as good on energy. Palin was great on energy, good on economics, and good enough on foreign policy (given that she's with McCain, who's very good on foreign policy). The only downside I saw in both speakers was that they didn't always answer the question asked. I imagine that they were probably both told to find ways to steer their answers into areas of comfort. And, they both did that very well.

All in all, I have to see this one as a draw. Like the presidential debate, I don't think last night changed anyone's mind. I think Palin likely pulled favor with some undecided female voters, and Biden probably won among undecided male voters. It's a tie. But, it was a lot of fun to watch.