First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Chuck, NY — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:43:32 GMT

If Forrest Gump was the GOP VP candidate, would he be viewed to be more qualified than Barbie Palin? Thank you Chris Matthews for outlining the debate credentials she had to be judged upon yesterday. Why is everyone so afraid to say she is unqualified? She came off no better than a high school student. Is it too much to ask that our national political officeholders have a command of the English language? All she did was reaffirm the horrible interviews she has given ABC and CBS. Many times I laughed at her.

Thank you Joe for debunking the McCain maverick claims last night in the debate. I think that was the best point of the evening. Now if we would just counter attack their constant badgering that Obama would raise spending by 1 trillion dollars. I almost wished Joes had said “The GOP and McCain only have a noun, a verb and higher taxes and spending.” No wonder the GOP is worse than dog food right now.

I get the sense America is going to issue a great big happy “Ahhhhhhhhhh, finally” on November 5th when Obama wins. If nothing else, we can at least relax, find new bearings and finally move forward in a positive way. If McCain were to win, America would be uttering “Aw s**t, not again.”

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Dan, New York, NY — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:44:19 GMT

Biden focused on long-term strategy not winning the debate on points. He was clearly trained at Obama School:

http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/10/03/my-take-on-vp-debate-biden-was-trained-at-obama-school/

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Marc in AnyTown USA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:46:51 GMT

Just ONE voter's thoughts:

TRUE: Palin did not implode or do her own future any harm. In fact, she may have salvaged her own gubenatorial career-- probably her biggegst priority. Let's face it-- she may not be ready for Prime Time, but she's no idiot, and she knows she has to go home on Nov. 5. Life would be better if she was able to save face... and she did. Not much in terms of detail & substance, but she held her own.

Joe Biden had a challenge few American men in politics could champion in this age of intense word-by-word scrutiny from the media and the blogosphere: Be forceful, but not too forceful against a woman who's campaign is chompin' at the bit to cry Foul! I believe he was uncharacteristically successful, may be to his own surprise. And when it came to details, this veteran senator went as deep as anyone could go-- speaking of troop levels, int'l political mine fields, power struggles, Darfur, Chad, generals (with correct names)-- the list went on & on. He had substance, for sure. Sure made all the folksy talk by Sarah PTA seem a little light, by comparison.

McCain is a man who uses 20th Century strategies to deal with more complex and nuanced 21st Century challenges we face. All experts say our nation does not have the military "bandwidth" to warrant a Bully Mentality. We need diplomacy, and Obama seems to have and exhibit this temperment in high abundance. Joe Biden's input would be most valuable in navigating such delicate, complex global issues.

That's my 2 Cents. I respect my Republican breathren, and understand their fears for EXPERIENCE. I believe we have a good Team in BO/Joe to make our nation strong-- something BOTH sides of the aisle desire, after all is said and done. I hope, when the dust settles, that we can do our best to stand together... sounds really corny, I know... but there can only be one President. While the Right- and Left-wing media choose their sides and sling their arrows, try to ask yourself, "Is this doing our nation any real good?" (Sure it's entertaining, and satiates a visceral desire inside us)... but is it any good for where we as a nation are trying to progress?

"Progress"--- boy there's a word that Americans like to throw around, but have a hard time living.

Red or Blue-- we'll be stronger if we stand together on November 5th.

"What a country!" (i/m/o T. Russert)

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

the Pajama Pundit — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:47:07 GMT

But longtime Biden watchers could tell he was struggling with how to deal with her. He spent the first half of the debate on the defensive. It wasn't until the last half hour that Biden found his inner-Goldilocks and found the "just right" tone in dealing with Palin. In fact, Biden ratcheting up his seriousness and emotion may have made Palin's folksiness seem tonally off for a little bit toward the end.
*****************************************************

Indeed. I think Biden performed masterfully. He held her accountable for the non-truths that she spoke, and yet he didn't act condescending or snarky to her (I can't say the same for Palin).

http://thepajamapundit.com

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Greg SF, Ca — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:47:07 GMT

What is wrong with these guys that cover the debates. They must not think of us American people as smart. Other than Chis matthews & crazy Keith, all male reporters are afraid to tell the truth. She ducked every question, & looked like she did a line of coke , with the eye rolling & the snotrts or what ever you call it. Aw shucks da gone it, really is not what us so called joe six packs want to hear. Came across as fake & please grow some & tell the truth Chuck Todd.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Douggie W, Murdo SD — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:47:32 GMT

If MSNBC says that the shelf life of the VP debate is 24-48 hours, then Palin must have cleaned Biden's clock.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

ALL OF AMERICA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:48:14 GMT

YES ! YES ! YES ! ONLY 109 DAYS UNTIL OBAMA/BIDEN TAKE OFFICE. BUT WHO'S COUNTING ?

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

RD, ALEXANDRIA, VA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:48:22 GMT

BIDEN WON!!!!

OBMAM/BIDEN '08/12

A RABID REPUBLICAN NOW FOR OBAMA!!!!

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

John, MI — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:48:33 GMT

Did anyone listen to the fact that at this time last year Biden was in Primary debates with Obama saying he wasn't qualified or didn't agree with him on a majority of issues....yet now he agrees with Obama 100% and said if "god forbid something happens" he would continue an Obama presidency?

Why no out cry from the liberal media that in no way does he agree with Obama and should be called out for it. Its like he changed his opinion on everything if it gets him farther for political purposes....

Palin in 08,12,16,20 (I was impressed with her more last night than at the convention)

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Bryce Ashby, Memphis, TN — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:48:39 GMT

Wow...I expect a little better analysis from you guys then she was "folksy" and he had a Senator command of the details. Let's get past the silly stuff and look at their actual answers. I have a feeling that Palin's answers, upon review, probably won't match the questions.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Sharon Betts, Turner, ME — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:49:00 GMT

I do not understand how anyone could have been taken in by the memorization and spouting of cliches. If a question was not on her "list", Gov. Palin just didn't answer it. Perhaps the public understood what they were seeing more than the media? As a 40 year educator, she got a D on this one. A quick learner, but not a deep thinker.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Mia in Miami — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:49:09 GMT

It was a good debate, but it was Biden hands down.

Meanwhile, in VA: "Appalachia is supposed to be a one of Barack Obama’s biggest weak spots. But judging from a surprise work stoppage at the Blacksville No. 2 coal mine in West Virginia, Mr. Obama evidently has some pockets of support there.

Last Monday more than 440 members of the United Mine Workers of America took the day off, halting production at the Blacksville mine. The union declared it a Memorial Day, largely to protest what union officials said was an anti-Obama ad that the National Rifle Association was filming at the mine."

Spin this story from RCP! LOL

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

LA in Denver — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:49:23 GMT

She's a folksy gal, that's for sure. But her performance doesn't do much to erase what we've all seen over the past two weeks. Insta polls also show that less than half of those who watched think she is ready to be VP. Eighty seven percent think Joe Biden is ready. She did not pass the threshhold test and that's why people who watched thought Joe Biden won.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

C. Schneider, glassboro, nj — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:50:41 GMT

solid performance by Palin? Are you kidding? Her too-too-cutesy performance gave "folksy" a bad name. She was so sickeningly sweet, they should've passed out insulin afterwards. Is this gee-whiz, guffawing, putting togther sentences that mean nothing person what we deserve in the VP? Will this type of person, forinstance, bring Hammas to the table? She was great if were kindergarten teacher she were interviewing for, but not a world leader!! Shame on all the analysts who didn't see through the performance.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

iowan — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:51:14 GMT

Congress---god love 'em---thanks for removing the AMT. Sure, it sucked, but I'll admit the 'break' was not absolutely necessary, now. What the hell, thanks for cutting me in, too--ever'body to the trough! Drink deeply! (Shh. Don't tell our sons and daughters they'll be paying for it.)

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Jannie Janes — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:51:17 GMT

What Palins debate performance shows is that when you constantly see her through the filter of liberal lenses, like with Couric, that she will not look her best. Liberal reporters actually coach and help Obama and Biden through their major stumbles. No such luck though if you're a conservative. When talking directly to the people, Palit shows she is a fine VP selection and would do well if she had to be president.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Nashville_fan — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:51:34 GMT

"She proved extremely adept at avoiding questions or topics she didn't want to answer, which is the big difference between her fairly smooth performance last night and her near-disastrous performances in those one-on-one interviews"

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
How is not answering the question a good thing? When did the standards in this country drop so low that NOT ANSWERING QUESTIONS is a valid strategy for seeking the second highest office in the land?

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Whatever — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:52:13 GMT

I thought the debate was about issues and not a person. I must be reading into this election the wrong way. Palin did not address the issues like a VP candidate a heartbeat away from the POTUS. She regurgitated Gingrich's slop. Lying is killing's ugly cousin in the world of Politics.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

John Reese, Tampa,Florida — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:52:27 GMT

Is it just me or does Sara Palin remind you of that High School English teacher, you always skipped class on ? Can't stand that squeelish voice !

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Sara's Army — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:52:39 GMT

See, a woman can stand up to a big strong man. Or if one isn't around, then Biden in this case.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Libratine — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:53:09 GMT

I'm not buying the charm and b!tch synchrony.

I'll take the focus groups - not the Faux News one sponsored by Budweiser.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Hyper Bolic, NJ — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:53:43 GMT

Don't believe the hype? Then how can we believe Obama? That's all he has.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Nashville_fan — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:53:55 GMT

" And she came across as a better advocate for her candidate, John McCain, than Joe Biden was for his guy, Barack Obama. Biden, too often, defended his own record first before touting Obama's."
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
To be blunt First Read, that is a lie. Joe Biden was an EXCELLENT defender of Barack, and he defended his own record because he HAS ONE.

Sarah Palin did not defend John McCain's record on health care or deregulation, and she was ASKED directly and refused to answer.

I can't believe you folks are this gullible.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Suz In KS — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:54:27 GMT

Sarah Palin might as well have been a Disneyland automaton singing "its a small world after all." I was appalled by her lack of depth or breadth on any issue, her constant failure to answer at least 10 questions, her continual adherence to the talking points and her failure to show even the slightest command of any given topic-even energy which she is a self-proclaimed expert! Since the low bar set for Sarah Palin was that she didn't p*e on the floor, throw-up on Joe Biden or Gwen Ifill, fall of the stage, or say something amazingly stupid like she did in the Couric interviews, she passed that low bar test. But that's not a low bar I'm comfortable with when it comes to the leaders of the free world. This is not a low stakes exam folks-this is the highest stake test in the world. She failed that miserably. Her folksism were very annoying and distracting. I don't want some one LIKE ME to lead the country, I want some one BETTER THAN ME! And as a working woman in my 40s I find Palin to be an poor example of a working woman. When I think that McCain could have picked some woman like Kay Bailey Hutchinson, Olympia Snowe, Christina Todd Whitman, or Susan Collins, I start to question everything about his judgement and his ability to lead this country in such a time of crisis and conflict. Quite frankly I surprised so many pundits failed to bring any of this up! This debate made me even more comfortable with my choice in Obama/Biden.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:54:57 GMT

FR: "She proved extremely adept at avoiding questions or topics she didn't want to answer..."

You're kidding, right? Someone who is adept at avoiding questions doesn't make it so blatantly obvious he or she is avoiding questions.

I thought it was a laughable performance, and actually under what I expected from her.

I thought - and I believe I posted this here - that she would win the debate simply because she more so than Biden would stick to her talking points, and without an interviewer asking follow-ups that would, I figured, carry the day.

If she was sticking to her talking points, she needs to find a new talking points writer. It sounded to me like she was drawing bits and pieces from various talking points, and putting them together in odd and nearly incoherent combinations.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:55:22 GMT

Joe Biden did a great job of taming the Shrew from Alaska. He was not afraid to answer all questions while the powderpuff girl wimped out on too many of them. She's proven she is unfit to command, she certainly failed to command respect. She is the most ignorant and dishonest VP candidate of all time!

I was impressed with Joe's smooth delivery of clear and concise answers. He exceeded expectations and impressed the undecided. The early pools show he was the clear winner while that clueless old geezer Buchanon was easily impressed. As they say simple things amuse simple minds!

When will the media stop being impressed with this talking point Shrew while she always attacks the media? Time for the media to do unto her what she does unto them, attack, attack, attack! Expose her for the fraud she truly is.

Go Obama/biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

carol, burlington, ma — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:55:24 GMT

Ms Palin answered few, if any, questions from the moderator. She actually controlled most of the debate by answering her own questions off topic. The moderator had little choice but to sit and listen based on the negative talk regarding if she should have even hosted the debate.

Biden was full of facts, plans and hope for the american people going forward.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Ron Indiana — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:56:24 GMT

Some of the obvious thoughts:
The expectation bar was laying on the ground, so she cleared it.
The win the debate bar was too high so she is no match for Joe Biden
The Qualification to be POTUS bar was not cleared either. Just the survival bar was passed.

So it looks like we will see more of Sarah Palin. Not on Meet the Press or Hardball, but she will stick around. Conservatives will love her and she will learn a whole new vocabulary. She will stop winking into the camera because WOMEN DO NOT LIKE THAT!! My guess is in time she will wedge the Republican party deeper than it is now. The shallow thinking conservatives (like Pat Buchanan) will like her. The smarter,George Wills of the party will not. You can bet Romney, Huckabee, et.al. will be thinking about "How will I deal with Palin?'

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Nashville_fan — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:56:31 GMT

Is it really a debate if one of the parties decides to ignore the questions?

Gov. Palin did not debate, she ran out the clock by reading talking points and making wild claims that Senator Biden could not let go unchallenged.

If winking at the camera, acting like a caricature of “down home folk”, and creating your own alternate reality is what America is looking for, the Gov. Palin was the clear winner

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

freddie, cleveland — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:57:19 GMT

The reason she did not do well in the snap polls is because she didn't do well! What debate did you watch? You MSM completely overestimate her "folksy" charm...to most of us it's phony and vomit inducing. So sad that "not too bad" is good enough for McCain. Everyone needs to read the article in the new Rolling Stone...this is the real Maverick. Please encourage all your younger friends and voters to read this factual account of McCain's life. Not the fairy tale he has created for himself.
http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/23316912/makebelieve_maverick/print

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Fix the Broken — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:57:50 GMT

Let's keep it real here.

Joe Biden won this debate. That is irrefutable.

Joe Biden had command of the facts. He answered almost every question asked of him. He showed a very touching humanistic side. And had they been allowed to go free-flowing like McCain and Obama, Biden would have wiped the floor with Palin. Period.

Sarah Palin did better than most people expected her to. The bar was set down as a line on the street and she went above that bar. She answered 50-70% of the questions asked. She was clearly scripted in what she was going to say. She talked in primarily complete sentences. She had a bit of, but not a lot of, substance. She would have gotten creamed in a back and forth debate.

David Brooks and Pat Buchannan are idiots for saying Palin won. Pat even said Palin wiped the floor with Biden. He is a moron.

This was the best debate in Biden's life and had it not been for the attention put on Palin, that would have been the headline for sure.

Go back and watch the debate again with an objective eye. Check all of the fact checkers too. Biden won.

This is irrefutable. So we can dispense with all of the nonsense.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:57:54 GMT

I think most of the people who tuned in were Democrats hoping to see Palin make a fool of herself. I, personally, bought popcorn for the event.

Palin did not make a fool of herself, but neither did she reverse anyone's opinion of herself or McCain. She looks like a Fox News Anchors and sounds like a telemarketer. "Call now and you will get all this and more!" No thanks.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Joe Don, Topeka, KS — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:58:52 GMT

Which hype shouldn't we believe?

And if there's no hype, and if the media continue to treat substance like a vampire treats garlic, what's left?

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:59:44 GMT

And to me the real truth teller here is that none of the pundits, while proclaiming Palin did fine, is talking much about anything she said.

My guess is because they couldn't follow the logic of her points, either.

She threw out words like reform (who knows how many times) and yet can anyone honestly tell me one specific reform she advocates? She said she disagreed with Biden in a couple of his responses, but can anyone honestly tell me why she disagreed?

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Clara Kansas City, MO — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:59:57 GMT

As someone firmly entrenched in the Obama camp, I watched the debate last night and I will admit that Palin did fine.

What the 'base' doesn't seem to understand by the lack of support in the aftermath polling is that Americans have decided that she is simply not qualified to be a heartbeat away. This debate was not about memorizing your candidates talking points and recent voting record (or in absence of voting - the verbal approval or opposition of an issue). It is about the very real fact that Bush has left our country in disastrous shape and competency is far more important than likeability.

Every time she opened her mouth my mind imaged 'W'. The folksy speak, nucular, refusal to answer questions, challenging Biden and Ifill that she was going to 'do it her way' and 'straight talk'. It was a complete rehashing of Bush. I could not distiguish a single ISSUE that she grasped deeply enough to list points on HOW McCain would change direction, implement reform, etc.

It was, sadly, more of the same.

Americans have raised the bar AND the threshold. Mediocrity is just NOT good enough.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

J. Ellis, Virginia — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:00:20 GMT

"She lit up the screen at times with her smile and occasional winks."

Gov. Palin was too cutsey by half and failed to answer many of the questions put to her last night. She actually gave a shout out to her brother's class on national TV during a serious debate. I could not believe it. If Biden or heaven forbid, Obama had done such a thing, the Rethugs would be ready to call for their withdrawal from the presidency.

The issues that face us are enormous, the future uncertain and it is frightening that so many people, pundits included, that would give a pass to Gov. Palin simply because she beautifully regurgitates talking points, looks adorable, can wink and say "Golly Gee and Gosh Darn It" a lot.

Thank you Sen. Biden for reminding us that having a command of the facts is a benefit and not a liability. Thank you for answering the questions that were put to you during the debate and for treating the forum with respect and for reminding us that being "Ellie Mae" just ain't gonna cut it.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Jonathan — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:00:37 GMT

MSNBC is so desperate for a horserace. Honesty is the best policy. It is clear who is more prepared to be president -- Joe Biden. It is great that Palin can wink at the camera and, in a confident way, avoid answers but that is not what governing is about, that is what broadcasting is about. Biden did well among real voters because we care about real issues not whether someone met expectations, we want someone to get things done.

Biden slammed McCain and your belief that Palin defended McCain better is nuts. Biden went through a list of McCain's ties to Bush and Palin had no reply -- not one.

I am glad that MSNBC has resorted to high school level judging for the most serious election in decades. Thanks for upping the discourse. What a joke.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Becky, Knoxville, TN — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:01:18 GMT

The "doggone" media seems to assume that her fake folksy stuff automatically works with middle America. I live in Tennessee and can tell you that it was not endearing, real, or charming. Would you act like her in a job interview?

The thought of Palin being president is terrifying.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

BJ, CA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:01:21 GMT

Sell that natural gas....Is the T. Boone fact starting to become obvious...?
Big Oil needs to SIT this one out...
War bleeds the "country first"...
Oil bleeds the "country first"...
McCain prays to two gods...oil and war..

We need Obama/Biden even more now...

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Ken Bartholomew, Concord, NH — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:01:28 GMT

To paraphrase Ben Smith, Palin looked like she was trying to get people to take her seriously. He looked like he was running for vice president.

They both succeeded in their goals.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Suburban Mom paying attention, IL — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:02:27 GMT

"Neither candidate committed a major gaffe, and there were probably no moments that will get replayed over and over."
------------------------------------------------------
First Read, you aren't paying attention. The McCain campaign is scrambling to refute Sarah's "misstatement" of their position on the loophole in the federal bankruptcy law- you know, the one that would enable folks like the McCains to keep houses 2-7 in the event of a bankruptcy, while "regular Americans" lose everything?

Oddly enough, Sarah implied that the McCain-Palin team were in agreement with Obama-Biden, in that the loophole should be closed. She guessed that her team favored the common-sense position; she was wrong, and now the campaign has to cover.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Obama Is Best For America — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:02:59 GMT

The American people say, 'NO SALE, GOVERNOR'.

Your winkin' is as phony as a 3 dollar bill.

When are you going to do some press conferences?

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Jonathan Freedman Ann Arbor MI — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:03:19 GMT

Chuck's been hanging out with Pat Buchanan too long, it seems to me, buying the NBC Morning Joe it's still the 1990s spin. Maybe, just maybe, voters want something more this time around than talking points and stage business? That's what the polls are saying to me, which is reassuring. Time to get with it, guys. This time around, the voters are way ahead of you.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Rod, SC — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:04:12 GMT

There is no doubt that Palin needed a bounce here and she did get that. I would argue she did not win the debate but at least she held some grasp of the topics that were discussed. She did what she had to not to look like a joke. Thats good for her and for the Mccain campaign but ultimately the doubts are going to linger and the katie couric interviews will continue to be played on youtube day after day.
Biden wins when it comes to the overall result as does Barack Obama.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

CitizenJ — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:04:16 GMT

"If Palin seems to be doing well with press reviews, then why didn't she win the snap polls or the focus groups?"

Because the press (with a few exceptions) has no idea what they are talking about. You think Pat Buchanan and Joe Scarborough are objective analysts? Much less Keith Olbermann and Chris Matthews? Please.

Sarah Palin's "folksy" personality is like nails on a chalkboard. She is about 95% hyperbole and 4% bullsh*t. The other 1% is her actual practical, tangible intelligence. But, as we know, the press loves to feast off of that 99% of nothing. So guess what? She won!!!!!

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

William Bellevue,NE — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:04:24 GMT

If last nights debate winner was based off the game "memory" than Palin was the winner. I mean the lady was so scripted it was like she was a robot. However, I feel her past interviews have taken away from her debate performance.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Marc — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:04:36 GMT

"If Palin seems to be doing well with press reviews, then why didn't she win the snap polls or the focus groups?"

Perhaps it is because they were listening to what she was saying -- as a question of grammar. The media commentariat's attention span has seemingly become so short that they can't even stay focused for the course of a single... um, I would say "sentence", but you know what I mean... one portion of speaking. Her end forgets its beginning, as the saying goes.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Diane from Illinois — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:04:54 GMT

Although she didn't crash and burn last night, Sarah palin did little to provide the proff that she should be one heartbeat away from the Presidency. She sounded like a college student who had crammed for an exam without fully understanding the information and how well do you think her "folksiness" will play when negoitating with someone like North Korea, "Well, dog gone it, Kim, you need to stop making those darned nukes." {Wink, wink, smile} She is clearly out of her league in this arena and she needs to go back to Alaska where she belongs. Shame on John McCain for selecting her as his running mateas she's truly not qualified to be second in command. She scares me also because she wants to expand the role of the Vice President......after 8 years of slimy, unethical Dick Cheney, this is the LAST thing I wanted to hear, especially when she refused to play by the rules even last night and NOT answer the questions she was asked.This is a woman who will do whatever she wants to do and think she can wink and smikle her way out of it......seems to be working with Troopergate now, doesn't it? Sarah Palin is WRONG for our country and John McCain is WRONG for our country. No way, no how, NO McCain/Palin. Send them packing. I thought Joe Biden did very well and proved he could step in if necessary.....a far cry from Palin. Obama/Biden '08/'12

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Eric, Salinas, CA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:05:12 GMT

Emergency, Emergency! The Straight Talk Titanic hit an Iceberg from Alaska and is sinking in it's own hubris! Isn't it funny that the grumpy old man whines about bad luck when he was the fool creating it?

Next Friday another torpedo will hit the Straight Talk Titanic and there goes the First Mate because of her wicked scandal. It will be funny to watch the lobbyist handlers of the Dumb and Dumber ticket try to spin her pathetic debate performance into something special, no amount of lipstick will ever cover up that pig.

Go Obama/Biden 08/12!

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Pat, Boston, MA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:05:50 GMT

I didn't watch the debate, I watched the Dodgers/Cubs. But by reading your review of Sarah Palin, then I have to say that I would do well in a VP debate. I'm well read, I have traveled more than her, I smile easily, I dress professionally. I even wink on occasion. AND I can talk sports with anyone, anywhere, anytime.

Senator Obama should have picked me. Well no, not really. Despite all my positives, I don't think I'd be qualified for such a responsible position.

But at least I know it. (wink)

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Betsy — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:06:03 GMT

Palin did well, at least if all you wanted was a person to talk about nothnig with substance. I recommend you listen to her answers and notice the ones she did not answer. Sorry this lady is not going to vote for an air head. Our Nation is in aserious position to risk my vote aon just a public relation person. OBAMA 08

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Sandra, Tennessee — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:06:09 GMT

Chuck, Disappointed on your view of Joe Biden last nite. I thought he did an excellent job, plenty of SUBSTANCE and style. Palin just did her memorized talking points over and over. You should give the American people a little more credit for recognizing the difference between fluff and the real thing!.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Mel — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:06:16 GMT

You know what - don't excuse Palin simply because she didn't fall on her face.

The reason people didn't like her is that her "folksiness" came off as an audition for a Disney production. She made a caricature of herself. Her winking and her over-the-top perkiness and folksiness were to disguise the fact that she was basically regurgitating her stump speech.

She, apparently doesn't know what Article I of the Constitution says, and didn't appear to have a grasp on the nuclear proliferation problem or loose nukes beyond that they are bad and Iran shouldn't have them.

Give people a little credit for having a brain. You explain their reaction to Palin away as if it were not her performance and her ignorance that lost her the night in the eyes of the undecideds.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

marty holloman,columbia,s.c. — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:06:22 GMT

Survival, thats not exactley what we are looking for.
We needed to see a professional who could step into the shoes of the President of the United states of America. I didnt see that, I saw a well rehearsed and
scripted woman who was winking and gesturing and answering her own questions. Just to common to be in a
position of representing the USA. Joe Biden on the other hand was knowledgable and intelligent. Senator Joe Biden is a statesman.
marty

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Lynette, NYC — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:06:24 GMT

i felt as if PAlin were reading from a script, cue cards, or a teleprompter. i also did not like her dumbing down of america with her Dog gone its and shout outs etc. The " folksy colloquium" was almost embarrassing. Surprisingly to me Joe Biden came off as more the "everyman" type, I could much more see him sitting at the local bar on a saturday night then her. She sounds like the secretary parody Lily Tomlin used to spoof years ago. I dont think she won anything except to prove that she has good memorization skills.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Where is the bar? — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:06:50 GMT

Palin's performance is that of someone who talks a lot but did not really say anything. It's quite an art form. And can be pulled only by people who are good at BS.

She also apparently have no Achilles heel.

Suddenly McCain and company woke up and realize they should distance themselves away from Bush. The problem with that is the FACT that McCain voted 90% of the time FOR Bush's policies. When it mattered the most to the people, McCain's first and foremost priority is his political career.

Plus Bush still has 4 months in office. He is hardly a thing of the past just yet Sarah. The reason why Joe kept pointing to him was because he caused all the mess we're in right now. DUH! That wasn't even a good try, that was an insult to the intellect of people watching.

I say the bar was so low that it was an OK performance, she escaped major blunders. But the bar should not be this low for someone seeking the 2nd highest office in the land.

I say Obama and Biden are the sensible choice. God help us otherwise.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Tom, Edison, NJ — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:07:26 GMT

"She proved extremely adept at avoiding questions or topics she didn't want to answer, which is the big difference between her fairly smooth performance last night and her near-disastrous performances in those one-on-one interviews."

Adept? How is telling the audience "I don't like that question, so I'm going to answer another one" adept?

It was her telling the world that she would play by her own rules and avoid all that gosh-darn hard questions as much as she could.

Oh yeah...color me impressed. *rolls eyes*

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Jarda, Richmond, VA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:07:30 GMT

Are you kidding me guys? Yes Palin was okay. Saved us all from huge embarrassment in front of the world but if you say she protected McCain better than Joe Biden protected Barack Obama than I guess you watched very different debate or may be Tom Brokaw already told you to be in tank for McCain and Republicans. SHAME ON YOU

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

David Foote, Murfreesboro, TN — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:09:26 GMT

Chucky T...you need to stick to the maps. This morning you said on television that Palin's folksiness was "impressive". Are you kidding me? Abraham Lincoln's folksiness was impressive; Palin's folksiness was just goofy. So many pundits are saying she succeeded because she didn't make any huge mistakes. I'm so sick of low expectations. How did we get to the point where being able to say your own name is enough to make people want to put you in the White House? What's wrong with having high expectations for the people who want to run the country? We went with the low expectations and the guy you can have a beer with eight years ago...and look where that got us! The suggestion that people in this country could even consider putting Joe Sixpack or Hockey Mom in the White House, even as VP, is a remarkably sad commentary on where we are as a society. That's like choosing to have the grade school nurse do your brain surgery because she's friendly. Folksy? No thanks...I'll go for intelligence and thoughtfulness every time.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Jim Second District Maine — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:09:27 GMT

I'm not sure if I was in the McCaincamp that I would put much hope into getting any thing out of Maine. I live in the Second District and while Susan Collins will again do well here (probably very well) I don't think her coat tails are going to bring McCain/Palin along with her. Republican die hards are going to go along but there are probably more Independants here now then Dems or Rebubs. And I don't think we are going in that direction.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Informed and Experienced — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:09:58 GMT

Campaign talking point of the day: Speaking of the economy, the Labor Department is reporting this morning that employers cut 159,000 jobs in September -- the biggest monthly job loss in five years. The unemployment rate remains unchanged at 6.1%.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Of course jobs are being lost! Everybody and their brother was somehow employed by the real estate market for the past several years - it has been the good ole boy system for the common people. An appraiser, realtor, mortgage loan officer, etc...I know; I was a loan officer.

Now that we realize that giving houses to everyone who wants one is not wise, we have to find something else to be the 'get rich quick' scheme...No more infomercials about turning your $20 bucks to millions by flipping houses.

...By the way, did you know that the Clinton administration is the one who pushed through the lax regulations for Freddie and Fannie. Google it. 1999. There are plenty of news articles, etc... that reference Clinton's idea (a good one, no doubt!) that regulations needed to allow more people to achieve the American Dream. In the process, instead of creating responsible homeowners, we perpetuated the problems usually associated with irresponsible renters. ...Turns out not everyone needs to own a home. And when we let them, the market comes crashing to a hault.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Rie — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:10:24 GMT

I watched the debate last night and am so disappointed with the news media. Yes Palin was charming, but could she answer a question. NO!

I want a smart vice president who knows what the hell she is talking about. I want someone who does more than quote lines. I want to know if something happens to the President the Vice President can step in.

Palin is sweet, Palin is charming, Palin can repeat lines over and over again but she in not ready to be Vice President and the press should call her on not answering the questions.

Biden won on substance and in this day that is what matters.

Rie

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Pete - Albany, NY — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:11:26 GMT

"But longtime Biden watchers could tell he was struggling with how to deal with her. He spent the first half of the debate on the defensive. It wasn't until the last half hour that Biden found his inner-Goldilocks and found the "just right" tone in dealing with Palin."

Biden's problem is the double-standard that he faced in debating Palin.

A male candidate who tap-danced around the questions and issues and said as much as she did without really saying anything would have been annihilated by Biden.

But he can't do that to Palin because then the narrative becomes that he's a bully for beating up a girl.

Biden did just fine by letting Palin ramble on the way she did. Like my father once said, give people enough rope and they will hang themselves.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Nashville_fan — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:12:25 GMT

"If Palin seems to be doing well with press reviews, then why didn't she win the snap polls or the focus groups? "

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Because we are not as stupid as you think we are and we saw right through that dog and pony show?

We need a LEADER, not dorm mother.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Bullwinkle — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:13:18 GMT

She still scares me..

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

GW, Vancouver, Canada — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:13:28 GMT

You don't get it. Sarah was a Barbie Doll , she evaded questions, just said her memorized cliches, and showed no interest or knowledge of the most important issues of the moment. Interesting that the polls got it better than the pundits. Biden is class and Barbie is crass

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Jane Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:13:40 GMT

Wow, Chuck & Co: I have been amazed again and again that we have such a similar take on events. I never really expected such synergy with a voice in the media. Thanks for the sense of sanity.

Ever since the Mike Murphy, Peggy Noonan mic incident, I've been wondering how much your backroom conversations influence your take on events. For me, that event really exemplified the problem of pundit/opinion writers: There seems to be a great disconnect between the public personas they market and truthful analysis that might not support the positions they are expected to praise.

Best wishes for continued success to all of you.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Full Moon — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:13:44 GMT

Biden proved one thing, that he is a liar ... at least 10 times over. Palin won on the truth and I don't appreciate Biden telling lies about McCain's voting record and the other stupid gaffes he made.
Big Mac is more of a man that Biden. Another point that is fact.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Skrammd, OH — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:13:56 GMT

The bar was set so low for Palin that a midget could limbo underneath it.

She had no response to Biden's withering attacks on McCain's health care plan, his alignment with Bush on foreign policy and his phony maverick status.

And if you think SNL is not going to have a field day with "the wink", well doggone it, you've got another thing comin' !!!

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

classWarrior, D.C. — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:14:18 GMT

Bottom line; the right loved Palin, the left thought she lost. No loss or gain, except; that independents may swing away from folksy Yukon Barbie and go with the guy with the experience and knowledge, Biden---and, by him, to Obama.
Yeah, Michegan feels the collapse of laissez-faire Capitalism that's been steadlily building since the Reagan years more than anyone else, becuae factory-driven Capitalism had already failed them before this. No wonder Mclame pulled out. Out-of-Touchus Interruptus. Let's hope the laissez-faire Repiglican crowd doesn't screw the bailout deal today! I guess the pork cured Congress of laissezz-faire Capitalism this time.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Margaret — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:14:26 GMT

Gwen Ifill never let her inner pitbull off the leash. That was the only interesting part of the debate.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

toni tyler, Chesapeake,VA — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:16:28 GMT

This debate was so UNFAIR to Joe Biden, Palin attacked, smeared, lied on Obama, threw a lot of riff-raft at Joe but McCain surrogates have already discredited Gwen Ifil, the msm, thus Biden's tongue was tied to his shoe... if it had been fair..,
Biden would have been free to tell Palin, "Joe-Six-Pack" knows that if you move the Capital of Israel then you have said to Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the whole Middle-East, "Let's go to World War III."

Biden would have also been free to remind her that Joe-Six-Pack may NOT want another Dick Cheney in the office of the VP grabing 'More Power' and violating The Constitution, ignoring court orders etc.

He would have been free to say, "Moms may want their kids to answer questions with truth, not 'duck & dodge' as she is doing. Those with "Challenged children" may want to know why she Cut The Special Olympics.

It Was Not A Fair Debate For Joe!

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Oregon: More than liberals. — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:16:58 GMT

Oh ye of little faith...

The MEDIA is all it's wisdom thinks it "sets the bar".
Tells everybody where that bar is. "this high"
Tells everybody where how high someone will go "just this high"
And the media once again falls flat on thier face "splat"

We had a GREAT vice-presidential debate. I hear you boo-hooing out there. Name me a better played, more watched 'vice-presidential' debate. Forget the spin, that was just good watching.
Sarah Palin did awesome. Joe Biden did decent. He's had years more training than she, and he only had to "not screw up" as the pundits said. I'm noticing a double standard where pundits think Biden did well avoiding the subjects/mistakes he needed to, but they are growling at the subjects/mistakes that Palin successfully avoided. The dodges weren't that many.
And doesn't that mean she is learning.
And quickly.
And for those of you who think Biden did well... He came across false as a three dollar bill. Too much "from my neighborhood" "where I came from". He was trying too hard. And ending with the soulful "selfish God bless". Sorry but I don't buy it. He's got a great dentist but he's just another good ol' boy from Washington to me.

Congratulations Sarah.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Margaret — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:17:15 GMT

Palin is the new George Bush with her 'have a beer with me, but don't ask me any hard questions' appeal. Sadly, those types of voters are still out there in numbers.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

katiec Pekin, IL — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:17:21 GMT

hey MSNBC. You are getting as bad as CNN.
There was no way Sarah held her own. She
did not answer questions, address and discuss
policies, offered nothing she and Mccain
planned to do for little class America.
Get beyond the cutesy and pay attention to
substance.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

russlee — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:18:05 GMT

I don't believe the hype this article is selling! A VP candidate must do more than "survive" and if the media is only expecting that from her, that is their misconception and blindly following McCain camp BS! Quit trying to spin the pathetic truth. Palin was completely stomped in the polls. That is what the PEOPLE think, not a partisan reporter in an attempt to "spin it". I was undecided until McCain picked this ridiculous candidate. The winking is ridiculous as well as the "pretend hokey" which leads one to believe that Palin thinks we are a bunch of morons that she has to play dumb to!

Once again I find myself saying........you have got to be kidding me with this one John McCain....what a moronic choice for our country and it happens to be the first choice you would have made as President. This reflect your decision-making very badly....

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Elton Joel, Durham, NC — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:18:39 GMT

Chuck, are you really this vapid? Are you just trying to create a horserace? Clearly Palin was out of her league and all the prepared folksy-ness barely covered the fact that she had no grasp of the issues beyond a few pat phrases ("Alaska, Energy Producing State" anyone?).

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

Dave, Tn — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:18:50 GMT

It is the economy stupid and unless you want democrats to turn your state into Michigan run run run away from them.

First thoughts: Don’t believe the hype

AJ, IL — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 14:19:04 GMT

You political guys must have been drinking during the debate. Palin help herself period. It's never a good thing when your opponent knows more about your running mate's voting record that you do. Biden put on one of the best debate performances in 2008, primary or general. Biden was focused, crisp, knowledgeable and emotional (not easy for a man).

Biden on the other hand had high favorablity ratings when he discuss the economy, health care, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Iran/Pakistan.

You political pundits were overly concerned with Palin making major gaffes that you failed to grasp what Independent voters and undecided voters saw. As I watched CNN insta-polls/focus groups of undecided voters in Ohio, Palin's most favorable rating came when she talked about drilling and energy independence and greed on Wal-Street to blame for this financial market crisis. Her other talking points fell flat especially among undecided women.

You political pundits want to reward Palin for simply being competent while undecided voters rewarded Biden for being excellent.