Question of the day
Who won Wednesday night’s debate?
McCain: 2,886
Obama: 13,416
Numbers are based on responses to a Tribune online quiz.
For Monday’s question, go to chicagotribune.com
The loser
The debate last night reminded me of the Rocky Marciano vs. Joe Louis fight in 1951, where Marciano, bloodied from counterpunches, kept on aggressively punching and punching, and Louis was the effective counterpuncher. In the debate, John McCain was Marciano, however this time he lost the fight. The public wanted to hear substance on how McCain will help them and he didn’t deliver.
— Rich Ligus, Rockford
The winner
John McCain proved he had a temper. Barack Obama proved he had a brain.
— Tom Ross, Florida
McCain uncovers
McCain finally uncovered the doublespeak that Obama has been using to soft sell the American public into believing that he has an understanding of how to lead our country out of this economic mess. All you have to do is watch the “Joe the Plumber” video and you see how Obama fails 1.) to answer the budding entrepreneurs question; 2.) provide a worthwhile solution for what is the backbone of America — small-business owners. Mandated health care, more taxes, increased cost of doing business, decreased revenue and profits. That is what we can expect from the Obama-Biden camp. Something to think about on Nov. 4.
— Lou Sandoval, Chicago
Playing defense
McCain talks about Obama, Sarah Palin talks about Obama, Obama talks about Obama. Despite the GOP’s efforts, there isn’t a challenger in this race. It’s Obama vs. Obama. McCain has no offense and he never has. Obama has dictated McCain’s movements — from his choosing a woman as a running mate to focusing on William
Ayers as a key issue. Nobody wins a game, a war, or an election playing defense.
— Ramsey Dean, Chicago
Body language
Wednesday’s debate showed who John McCain is and always has been — a big ego. Everything is all about him. As the candidates left the stage, Michelle and Barack looked as though they really like each other. John, all puffed up about John, left the stage with Cindy at least 5 feet behind him. He hardly, if at all, even acknowledged her presence.
— Donna Pangrle, Elk Grove Village
The best
McCain has the will and staying power do what is right for the nation and keep his word.
— John Dreyzehner, Glenview
Calming influence
Stylistically and substantively, Obama won the debate. His temperate manner and calm assurance makes it easy to see how he could win not only American converts to his cause but also the minds and hearts of people around the world. Any man with his finger on the button that can destroy the planet needs a calm and steady hand.
— David Fredericks, Las Vegas
