The Mitt 'n O show; Round 1 to Mitt

 

Last Wednesday's debate between O and M offered dramatic and spectacular viewing. O appeared as if he were over tired, on sedatives or out to lunch, take you pick. He bordered on somnambulance as he missed opportunity after opportunity to counter attack with if not reason, certainly vigor.

 

 

It was not typical O by an means and while it gave M a subsequent bounce in the polls, the fat lady has yet to sing.

 

I doubt O will repeat his dream world performance and will instead come after M with a vengeance at the remaining two debates.

 

M did not look or behave much differently than in the past. He was prepared, articulate, clear headed, and poignant. He made good points and clicked off list items of corrective measures he plans to take. He looked every bit the alpha male. That should be enough for most people seeking to choose a leader.

 

 

However, many Americans want someone a bit more soft and cuddly and the press is making reams of copy in pursuit of that desire. It will not happen because it is not the nature of the beast.

 

Pity that so many cannot just be content with what M is.

 

In spite of his other worldly performance and polls to the contrary, O remains on top. There are more Democrats in the USA than Republicans which gives O an edge. While such and edge did not help Jimmy Carter, O is a professional at working his audience, at least most of the time.

 

 

Obama's supporters love him while M's supporters are less emotional about their candidate and offer respect more than affection.

 

To be sure, Americans would rather party with O, but do business with M. So, why is O still in the lead? He has the black vote. Younger women like him. Young people including university students favor him as well. He, like so many of his Democratic predecessors, have captured and fostered the immigrant vote.

 

 

This is a tradition in the Democratic party dating back to the days when Democrats in New York met immigrants at the boat with bags of food and lots of good will.

 

No question, M has closed a bit of the small gap in his popularity but he will need a repeat of his performance in the next two debates to make a difference. I would not underestimate M in being able to achieve this.

 

 

He is a fast study and does his homework. He prepared very diligently for the last debate and is no doubt doing the same with his coaches in preparation for the next two.