A note on Kerry's note taking during the debate [View All]

[Thurston Howell IV]

I forget who pointed this out, but Kerry made a subtle but very effective use of taking notes during the debate. Supposedly, he would take notes whenever Bush was making a strong assertion. Doing this would distract the viewer from what Bush was saying. The viewers would think, "I wonder what he's writing?" I know I did.

Apparently, the previous JFK used this effectively against Nixon. These are the kinds of things that an accomplished debater can do -- it's hard work trying to remember all the things one should do if they've not been integrated into one's understanding. Particularly if one is peeved.