the great debates

Wow, the first presidential debate was awesome. What a reversal of roles! It's really exciting to see Kerry back in the game and looking impressive, and even more to see Bush floundering, his words no longer as pitch-perfect as his campaign. We all know the Republicans are much better at running these elections, and it's immensely satisfying to see Bush caught in the headlights without that cushion of protection.

Congratulations to Kerry to throwing some great punches -- like calling on Bush's "the enemy attacked us" explaination for Iraq War with an all-too-literal interpretation: "Sadam didn't attack us! Bin Laden did!" Bush's reply was equally precious -- "Of course I know bin Laden attacked us!"

Bush was funny in general. He called the terrorists "a group of folks". He was hilariously incredulous when Kerry listed nations in the coalition and responded with "He forgot Poland!". And then he made some obscure reference to a "tax gap" -- together with hand gestures! -- and then moved on as if it were self-explanatory.

Easily Kerry won the debate, and polls show that the race is in a dead heat again.

Which, of course, makes things a lot more interesting this week, especially for the Cheney-Edwards debate on thursday. Cheney clearly has the experience edge, and threatens to push Edwards back into his obscurity in this campaign. Can Edwards shine -- and make himself known to the voters? This will be an interesting match -- Cheney the experienced, vicious pessimist, versus Edwards the political newbie, always smiling and optimistic.

In any case, this has been great fun for all.