Last Night Was Exactly Why I've Been a Kerry Man For 2 Years

[DrFunkenstein]

I knew that the man had a mind like a steel trap for foreign policy, a true chessmaster. I knew the man was a campaign brawler that enters a debate like a laser.

I must admit that I was a little let down by Kerry's performance this summer, but I guess I should have known better - this is hardly the first time he has laid low - even floundered - during the downtime of a campaign, only to come out with all guns blazing once people really start paying attention. He explicitly said this was his strategy against Bill Weld, and it was certainly true of Iowa.

It is amazing how muddled Kerry can seem before the hammer drops. But when that hammer drops, it DROPS. He may not have Clinton's good ole boy charm, but I've never seen a politician as sharp as Kerry once he turns the switch.

Tell me that you couldn't see it in his eyes last night - Kerry was ready. Bush had no idea what was about to hit him.

Kerry made me nervous when he started rambling his introductory thanks, but if you re-watch the debate, you can see him click as Bush is making his opening remarks. It is like Kerry looked inside himself and said, "This is the moment of truth and I will not surrender an inch for the next 90 minutes."

Thank you, John Kerry.

[MuseRider]

1. It was a mighty

Sledge Hammer! He was awesome and is ready to lead. I will say that as well, Thank You John Kerry!

[DinahMoeHum]

2. "Moment of truth". . .exactly. Kerry has prepared for this moment

all his life. He's been through it all. He's not gonna waver. So neither should we.


:kick:

[Awsi Dooger]

3. Kerry shines in debates but needs to take that level to daily speeches

We're not going to get 10 debates like vs. William Weld, or even a weekly debate just a few days before voting similar to the primaries. If those were the case, Bush would be incumbent toast. But there is a two week lag after the final debate and November 2. Kerry needs to understand the daily battle is short decisive sound bytes ideal for TV and radio plus newspaper headlines. Today Kerry is out with, "We're talking about winning and getting the job done right." Much better but still needs to be more brief.

Agreed, Kerry's first response worried me instantly. He was clearly nervous, with a much weaker tone and almost a staggering voice. Understandable given the two year buildup and what was at stake. He energized when Bush came across as inferior to any of Kerry's primary opponents, which he is.