I think the financial and economic developments have downgraded the soap opera element and that there is something of a seriousness in the way this is being approached.

Biden, considering the 'flu, did really well on a number of rounds, like the "not a maverick...", "the Mccain health plan..." "de-regulation..." and some of the foreign policy questions.

I think that although Palin did indeed exceed expectations, her better than expected performance will not help McCain because there was not much substance in evidence. The more she capably plays the candidate (the words, gestures, ways of avoiding things) the more idiosyncratic appears McCain's judgment in choosing her because out of touch with the seriousness of the situation. The continual smile underlined this aspect. It was as inappropriate to the occasion as his choice was to a serious campaign.

Pretty Good:

I got a friend in Fremont, He sells used cars, ya know.
Well, he calls me up twice a year
Just ask me how'd it go
Pretty good, not bad, I can't complain
Actually everything is just about the same

I was so distracted by the piece of hair that was stabbing her in the eye that I could hardly concentrate on what she was saying. Most of the debate centered around defending their running mate's records.

Did she exceed expectations? Probably. Is she fit to be one 72-year-old-heartbeat away from the presidency? Puh-leese.

"I may not answer the question the way you want to hear, but I'll talk straight to the American people and let them know my track record," Palin said. source

-----
ePMedia ... get the scoop with us!
If it's true that our species is alone in the universe, then I'd have to say that the universe aimed rather low and settled for very little. ~ George Carlin

They are excited she did well, desperate for a new attack angle (I put something on the sidebar on that), and generally still knowing they are deep in a hole. There is nothing like kicking them when they are grasping at straws... lol

Really there is not much to add to what has already been said here.

It is so inconceivable to me that McCain and Palin be elected that only something very large and unexpected will prevent an Obama presidency. Even another 9/11 would not affect Obama's chance because he has so remarkably, with Biden's excellent performance last night, become "the safe pair of hands". I honestly believe only a major scandal could now shift public opinion - and I never predict as far out as five weeks from an election date!

Although Palin's voice grated on me, the debate did fascinate me - or, rather, the dynamics of the debate fascinated me.

I find it so sadly amusing that she wants to appeal to Joe Six Pack--aka the poor sad sack who is so down and out he comes home every day and downs a six pack of crap beer so that he doesn't have to feel or think. Sounds about right to me. Palin and her impulse control-challenged partner have targeted the right group-alcoholics.

Also, would someone please tell that bang blinking dope that an Achilles Heel is a weakness and not a dress shoe to wear with a toga?