And this is a good point I noticed on another site, but the first debate is the most important. Even if Obama were to “win” later, there will probably be fewer viewers.
More importantly, however, is the fact that Obama really wants podiums at debates. He prefers the traditional format, but the next debate will be a mixture of foreign/domestic policy and be in a town hall format.
It will be very hard for Obama to be tough on Romney without appearing like an ass in a town hall style venue.
And the final debate will be just foreign policy, likely meaning even fewer viewers.
If Obama did decide to hold back last night, it may have been a fatal error for him.
Reagan came back from his first debate troubles against Mondale, as did Bush against Kerry. But they were not demolished like Obama was last night.
>> the first debate is the most important <<
Yep, as somebody once said, “First impressions are lasting.”