I’m not going to write a recap of last night’s debate because it bored me enough the first time around. The short version: Obama did fine but not great, McCain seemed like his heart wasn’t in it and Tom Brokaw might have had a nervous breakdown if any more rules were violated. 

The post debate polling shows Obama as the winner: 

CNN

Who did the best job in the debate? Obama: 54, McCain: 30

Who seemed to be a stronger leader? Obama: 54, McCain: 43

Who was more likeable? Obama: 65, McCain: 28 

Who seemed more intelligent? Obama: 57, McCain: 25

Who was more clearly expressed? Obama: 60, McCain: 30

Who went more negative (attacked their opponent) more? Obama: 17, McCain: 63

CBS Snap Debate Poll

(h/t Donklephant)

How did the debate impact vote preferences?
15% say they are now committed to Obama
14% to McCain
70% are still uncommitted

Would make the right decisions about the economy?
McCain: 41% before the debate, 49% after
Obama: 54% before the debate, 68% after

Understands your needs?
McCain: 35% before the debate, 46% after
Obama: 60% before the debate, 80% after

Prepared for the job of president?
McCain: 80% before the debate, 84% after
Obama: 42% before the debate, 57% after

Did candidates answer the questions they were asked?
57% yes, 42% no — for both candidates

Media Curves

Who do you think won the debate? 

Republicans: Obama: 20, McCain: 68, Don’t Know: 12

Democrats: Obama: 84, McCain: 10, Don’t Know: 6

Independents: Obama: 52, McCain: 34, Don’t Know: 14

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