Exactly. People here think they reflect the people bush is trying to reach in the debates. They don't. (sorry, folks).
While people here were saying "why doesn't he attack", "I want blood", etc, the people at home DON'T want it. Attacks turn the target market (swing voters) off when done by candidates. They work when they are done by the campaign and by proxy, NOT by the candidate themselves. That's why Kerry was screwed either way - he had to attack because he's behind, but by attacking, he's turning people off.
I think the panic crowd needs a few valium before the next debate. Mood swings aren't healthy.
Your post is right on. Kerry looked desperate to me. Bush made such nice remarks about the Kerry girls.. and you know he meant it. I think Kerry was taken aback! He doesn't know how to be gracious without it looking fake. Bush is the real deal and I think it showed tonight.