Kerry on the campaign trail.

[Stagger lee]

One of the great achievements of the debate is that people can now imagine Kerry as their commander-n-chief. It was not so much the words he used, but the way he presented himself -- strong, tall, composed and serious. On the campaign trail I'd like to see him continue to use that "style". He is not a very good "applause-line" speaker. He is not good at walking around with the mic in one hand and his other arm swinging around to accentuate his arguments. He is much more effective when he is standing tall and relaxed behind the lecturn. From this strong and composed posture he creates an impression of composure, security, and confidence.

In my view, he should complement this posture by, everyday, swating down the latest pathetic attempt by the Republicans to distort his positions..similar to what he did in the debate, but tighter more catchy one liners. He should, in a very subtle way, pound home the message that his opponents are not very smart...that they rely on distortions and child-like gimics, rather than arguments. He should make clear that during this period in history the country needs a commander n chief that acts like an adult and who is serious, strong and responsible.

I think he has the real opportunity of exploiting the childish behavior of Bush at the debate. The image of Bush as strong and tough has been damaged by his attics during the debate (Scarborough made this point on his post-debate show). Kerry can continue to exploit this chink in Bush's armour by continuing to contrast himself, an adult, with what Bush is, a child, acting like a leader.

[JI7]

1. he is very good at applause line and walking around with a mic

watch his town hall meetings and political rallies. although he doesn't put on a shitty cowboy act like bush does.

[Doosh]

2. his mannerisms during the debate

were very presidential. Unlike Bush who was hunched over, irritated, angry, incoherent.

Kerry stood tall, he was confident, articulated his points well. He smiled at Bush and nodded, even when Dumya appeared to be on the attack, then he carved Bush up right on the spot.

[Stagger lee]

3. that is what I am saying

From what I have experienced, most people have forgotten what he said but they feel a certain level of security and comfort with him now. Bush was all hunched over, rolling his eyes, impatient. Bush looked weak, Kerry strong. I know it is simplistic, but impressions matter. Democrats are always hurt by the feeling that we are weak. Kerry has begun to change that. He needs to continue to remind voters of the guy they felt so comfortable with at the debate. He doesn't have to be rah rah...people want a genuine leader.