Veep debate

And now my analysis on the vice presidential debate last night:

Before the debate ran, I predicted B+ performances from both Biden and Palin and thus, a draw. After watching the debate, I think both got an A-, and from a debate standpoint, I do think it was in fact a draw.

There was a lot of pressure on Palin to perform well, to look [vice] presidential and to not get the deer-in-the-headlights look like she did with Couric. Palin, I thought, actually did very well in taking on foreign policy questions and handled herself competently. Not only did she not 'blow it' as a colleague referred to it to me this morning, but I think she did well.

Biden was also just about at his best. He is an experienced politician, and an excellent debater at that. I knew that he would not have any of the gaffs for which he has recently gained notoriety. Both candidates were well polished. Biden did a great job of staying on message - constantly referring back to how a McCain adminstration will simply be an extension of the Bush administration. That is a powerful and resonating message, and a tough one for the GOP to shed.

After the debate it became clear to me that Obama and Biden are going to win this election. Palin was very good, but she really needed to be brilliant. She needed to be incredible, and Biden needed to slip up. He didn't, and she didn't, and although you can easily argue the one VP debate won't make or break the election, the underdog McCain only seriously pulled even with Obama in the polls when Palin was selected as VP right before the GOP convention. The the Palin effect has faded, and we're left with millions of independent voters who really believe Obama's message of change and hope and sunshine and rainbows and unicorns, etc.

The media loves a horse race finish, and McCain will probably pull closer once November rolls around. IMHO, however, I think the fat lady has sung on this one.