My initial reaction was that McCain got the best of it, but on reflection, I think that was primarily because I expected McCain to be be bumbling throughout and for Obama to be strong. I also felt that Obama missed a few openings to blast some of McCain's bullshit.
Imagine, then, my surprise, to learn this morning that the two polls of independents that were taken, one by CBS the other by CNN, both came out with Obama the big winner. Not only that, but Republican Pollster was on Faux News with a focus group of undecided voters, split evenly between Kerry and Bush voters. These folks came down strongly for Obama.
Another item: at least as important in swaying voters is body language and demeanor. It's been pointed out all over the place that McCain appeared angry throughout, treating Obama with contempt. He also refused to look at Obama even once.
And only final item: a large part of who wins a debate, in the final tally, is who pulls the public perception. Her, clearly, Obama is the big winner. The only ones saying that McCain won are on Faux News or working for him. Even David Gergen, former Reagan speechwriter, says the night was good for Obama.
With Obama's lead in the polls, now about 5-6 points, growing, time is growing short for Grumpy. It will be interesting if Palin is still on the ticket come debate time this coming Thursday.
Here's Nate Silver's take on Obama's big win last night.
http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/2008/09/why-voters-thought-obama-won.html