Listening to the Debates

I just wanted to give my opinion on how the debates seemed from someone who only listened to them and didn't see any images, body language, etc.

I thought the Presidential debate was a Kerry slam-dunk from the very first question given to Bush.  The question was something about whether or not the country would be at greater risk of attack were Kerry to win (obviously inspired by Cheney's well-publicized comment).  There are a couple of ways he could have answered this either affirmatively or negatively that would have worked fine.  Instead, he immediately said "I don't think he's going to win.  I'm going to win."  Wow.  From that childish outburst on, he went from bad to worse.  Even without seeing any of the scowls or smirks, it was clear he was on the defensive, didn't know how to answer any of the questions, and was just completely outclassed.  Anyone who thinks he "won on substance" was under the influence of a substance.  Apparently the images only reaffirmed this impression.

In the VP debate, I thought Cheney scored a narrow win because of his Zen-like ability to lie through his teeth, while sounding calm, rational, intelligent and logical.  He has an incredible efficiency for lies.  With just 16 words, he can say 20 lies.  If only he had used his powers for good instead of evil.  This kept Edwards on the defensive at several points because there is simply no way to answer 2 minutes of lies in 90 seconds (or 90 in 30) and still make your own points.  I think here that the body language may have made more of a difference, as many people have commented on the contrast between their respective on-camera demeanors.  Without seeing that, Cheney came across as measured and calm, while Edwards seemed to be a bit off-balance and defensive.  Nonetheless, he never put Edwards away decisively, and if his lies are actually being called out in the media, that will hopefully negate somewhat the power they had during the debate.

Just my observations.  Agree or disagree as you please.