Also remember how a response to the SOTU actually hurt Governor Bobby Jindal’s image when he came across as a scratchy voiced kid to many viewers. Of course if they actually listened to the words, he made a lot of sense.
American voters are notorious for forming opinions on 30 second TV snippets than in depth and substantive discussion of issues. It is the way it is. Which is why I prefer candidates who are good on the feet in responding to gotcha questions.
Very poor optics every time...get an audience in there for them to speak to and that can applaud the points made.