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It was a calculating move for McCain to put Ms. Palin on the R ticket. I mean to pull this woman all the way from Alaska no one knows – and I am thankful that Palin to prepare this last week, and through all the folksy, winking, foolery – you could still see where her comfort zones were and she stuck to her canned responses were canned and well rehearsed.

I did not hear one thing from Palin about their policies and the big fix they were going to pull off to keep us out of this mess that has incorporated itself by way of the Republican policy up until this point. Can fix the future if you don't look and learn from past mistakes. If I heard her say Maverick and you betcha one more time....

They need to step up, listen. Sarah is now a robot and know longer Sarah. She in the debate was totally on those cards. Joe was was also, but she was word for word looking down, reading the whole time. Those where not her words, she was just reading. She therefore did horrible. Joe looked like he was using most of his own words, he looked real. How in the world Roland, can Sarah say she doesn't have to answer aa question or ask to bring up a point then go right to her cards to read off them, some came right from Fox news. Deregulation, Part 1, how can she be allowed to skip questions and still ask for her own questions. She knew no one was going to say no to her, this is why Biden didin't care about the white flag deal. He wanted to come out clean and get her on the campaign trail.

They need to step up, listen. Sarah is now a robot and know longer Sarah. She in the debate was totally on those cards. Joe was was also, but she was word for word looking down, reading the whole time. Those where not her words, she was just reading. She therefore did horrible. Joe looked like he was using most of his own words, he looked real. How in the world Roland, can Sarah say she doesn't have to answer aa question or ask to bring up a point then go right to her cards to read off them, some came right from Fox news.

Here's a point I have not seen raised:

I would be willing to bet that many people had not yet been exposed to Joe Biden before the debate. Given the expressive increase in his favorable ratings following the debate – much higher than Gov. Palin's – this may actually translate into an advantage for the Democratic ticket.

Please note: Little Miss Special Needs CUT FUNDS FOR THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS in Alaska. "Near & Dear to your Heart"??? Exactly where is this heart, Sarah? Alaskans – I have seen your Palin and I feel you Pain. Please take her back to she can keep us safe from a Russian invasion.

excuse my spelling i was writing as i was talking and this is the first time for me i heard pailin say 'u should bring washington to wasilia well did she read her newspaper up there. there is a politician i think a repubilcan on trial for fraud he had a company give him money and work on his house. their is also another who went to jail one yr ago for the same thing and he was connected to Palin somehow. dosn't that mean washington is already there just in a much smaller scale? go Biden be u do u you dont seem to be hiding anything (troopergate)

Very good debate! Sarah held her own....which wasn't much.

Biden held his own and then some....like the questions she didn't answer! T

This confirms what we knew 8 years ago....America is ready and need to change in a forward direction. What we didn't know then, and now know....we are the hope to take us forward! GO OBAMA/BIDEN 08'

excuse my spelling i was writing as i was talking and this is the first time for me

Obama/Biden have a good idea of how to fix the problems we face. They have a plan. McCain and Palin do not have a plan, or at least could not explain one. How do you change for the better if you have no plan or just want to continue the same thing? Palin changes the subject when there are tough questions, and she keeps regurgitating the same keywords. I think I won that Palin bingo about 5 minutes into the debate.

People, if CNN is so biased towards democratic party and you feel angry about that, using that anger as a justification to vote republican is absurd and dangerous. That's how communism won so many uneducated people over decades ago. You are being played exactly into Palin's hands: Win over votes by connecting with emotions only, but no substance. Think, people.

It was plain to see what we couldnt see,that she had the most high tech ear piece ever made in her ear.I would love to know who was doing the talking for her.I just wish someone had the guts to investigate it.Theres a lot we dont know going on here.

English is my second , no third language and I know how to pronounce "nuclear"

Gov Palin was very over ruling in the Debate.

I agree that Gov. Palin did what she had to do to negate some of the negatives she revealed in recent interviews. However, her answers were talking points – well coached and obvious. They were not thoughtful or even thought out. There will be no coaches for our leaders in the White House when a crisis looms over our country. Obama/Biden = thoughtful and knowledgeable.

I think a lot of people that watched the Couric interviews were ready to watch a train wreck tonight, but Palin beat expectations. If this debate came right after her nomination speech, it would have been regarded as mediocre, but after last week's debacle, the fact that she was able to speak in coherent sentances (albeit with answers that were often to different questions then were asked) was heralded as a big moment for her.

While Biden won the debate, she beat the spread.

I would like to see SP up against Hillary, now to me that's where the rubber meets pantyhose. Woman to woman and then we'll see that SP can't hold a candle to HC. I think she should be held to the same standard as Biden, and they shouldnt have kept her away from reporters or media. Let her make snaffoos like everyone else! Hillary had to. I'm an Obama supporter but I think Hillary stood toe to toe with the men in the primaries and she ran a good race much better than miss out of touch hockey mom.

Unfortunately, Palin was not selected in order to appeal to anyone who is smart enough to be in this blog. The republicans are working hard for the votes of the uneducated, religious and close minded citizens who's vote holds equal weight. The just want to stay in so they can continue the same game and prevent investigations into what they really did to this country. Palin's fans "don't look backward" in order to learn from the past

i think tonight debate was good except that gov. palin was not answering all the question

Any part of America that thinks "folksy" is an admirable and needed quality in one of our leaders is a part of America we can do without. I am so tired of the "intellectually handicapped" in this country thinking that they should have a say in the political arena. How about learning about the issues and bettering yourself so that you, in turn, can better our nation?

A vote for any ticket upon which Palin is a part is a vote for laziness, mediocrity, and the pig-headed willingness to wallow in those dark and pathetic qualities. The only people who could have been impressed with Palin's performance tonight are those incapable of rational thought.

Why is the rest of the world more perceptive in our politics, then we are? If we opened this year’s presidential election to the world, Senator Obama would win hands down! Can Americans be that blind? McCain is very old and Palin is not ready to take his place should he expire. Our economy is in trouble and McCain says it’s not and then he agreed that it was, and then he says it’s not because his advisors pulled a rabbit out of his cap and decided that the economy was the hard working Americans and not the social system of production, exchange, distribution, and consumption of goods and services that all the dictionaries says it is. Wow, if I knew all it took was a pretty smile and some low socioeconomic catchy phrases I would have run for president a long time ago.

Raise the bar? After watching Palin tonight I have to ask – what bar?? Does she not remind anyone of the female lead in the move FARGO? Is this really the professional, world leader the USA wants representing? Well golly gee and dog gone it – can't figure out why so many folks in the rest of the world thinks we are just a bunch of dummies??? Some actually think she is fine....are you kidding me?

Gov. Palin did not answer a single question in a straightforward manner. This is what we should be paying attention to, not her style or anything else. Joe Biden won this debate. But doesn't sexism count both ways? Why is Joe Biden always being referred to as slick, smooth talker, instead of poised and respectful which is what we would be calling it if it were a woman.

I think Joe Biden, came in the debate very strong, and ended up very strong, it nailed it on the issues that the American people are concerned about everyday in their lives. He hit all the topics that I as an American are concerned about.
She kind of evaded the answers and went right back to the energy topics, which that seemed to be only her comfort zone. She kind of rambled on about things, that at times ,to me didn't make much sense.
I liked when Joe Biden said he knows about family because he had to raise his sons after his wife and daughter died, and held back, that was a pretty emotional time of the whole night, I say Biden won, he sounded positive on issues that are affecting our nation right now.
.

she looks like shes in a beauty contest : not giving real answers,just making a comment and then smiling or winking

I stand behind the facts and I feel Sarah Palin came short on the facts. She stated issues about the Obama/Biden ticket which were not true. Search the records please and pick the right President/Vice President for the United States of American. I am a proud American and I pray that the country looks beyond race, and selects the best person for the government. Obama is that person and deserves to be President and given the chance to bring real change to our country.

Biden won hands down! Palin gave it a shot...

The change the Palin talks about must be what is left over from a dollar spent on taxes, which if true to the Republican record will not be more than a penny or two.

jesus,is me or could you take listening to her for more than a hour and a half her voice is neurotic and irritable....

Still the same Sarah Palin .. wanted to talk about her family.. Most of us have family, and are not interested in hearing more on her family.

She was well rehearsed. But didn't answer many of the questions. Was she using the "Slang" words to try and connect to us middle American?? Does she think this is the way we talk??. Why the wink??? Sarah Palin is no middle American, and cannot connect with us. Knowns nothing about the lower 48, or the out side world.

You could tell Biden knew what he was talking about.

The Straight Line Express, has run off the edge ot that Bridge to Nowhere.

Go Obama/Biden GO

Palin – Thanks. But No Thanks!

Executive Women against Palin because she does not act like any CEO. People in Alaska are starting to wake up about Palin, so let's all see the light that she is NOT ready to be Governor, Vice President or President.

Biden missed a big fact....article 1 of the constitution describes the legislative branch of government, not the executive branch. He single handedly justified Cheney's power grab.

This debate showed Biden's knowledgeable experience and ability to be VP of our country.

Palin is never clear in her statements. She doesn't define what she's talking about and she never answers questions directly. She's not qualified to be VP. There are too many issues in which she has little knowledge in, especially in foreign policy. The funny thing is, while McCain has used the "Obama does not have enough experience" point as a primary attack against the Democrats, he goes and chooses a VP who has even LESS experience than Obama. For someone who is running for VP, Palin does not even know what the Bush Doctrine is, does not know how to respond to our economy's bankruptcy and subprime mortgage crisis. All she can do is divert back to her pointless efforts on changing energy policies. She couldn't lay out a clear plan for an extremely important issue, Iraq.

All she can talk about is what her “track record” is in Alaska. Sorry, but this isn’t Alaska and this is the entire United States of America that you will be screwed over in trying to run.

Yes, she related to the average American, and that may make people feel safer because “she understands your problems.” But does she understand how to fix them? Does she understand how to restore the nation's reputation as the best country in the world with foreign countries?

In regards to an exit strategy for Iraq, she doesn't know how to explain it. Biden clearly said him and Obama are going to end the war and all she could say was "that is a white flag of surrender". Does that matter? We're putting our nation, AND our troops (which she appears to care so much about) in even more danger to STAY there and KEEP the war up just so we won't "surrender".

I'm a woman and I'm voting for Obama/Biden.

Maybe you are right...Palin isn't the correct running mate. They should have called Ann Coulter.

Tonight made my choice on who I will vote for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. If I hear Maverick, Energy and John Mccain in the same sentence again from Palin, I will explode. I am a woman and very proud of a woman standing up for what she believes. I am somewhat disappointed with Biden because I wanted to see Biden's true colors come out. He began to show his colors when he corrected Palin about Mccain being a maverick. He hit it out the ballpark for me when he talked about being a single father and he knew what it felt like. I had an idea of who I wanted to vote for but tonight set it for me.

we have been registered democrats for over 30 years but we will be voting for mccain. cnn is so one sided in their reporting it's a shame.it is your job (as a news station) to be neutral but people like roland martin think that anyone who says anything negative about obama is a racist people like that should not be allowed to be on national tv.

No one is admitting the painful and shameful reality, this debate was not and cannot be equal. We are talking about a freshly elected governor, Palin, vs, Joe Biden, a senator who has a track record of 35 years of serving the American people. The fact is that, Palin cannot and will not be able to measure up to Biden. Palin might have done well....but the fact stayedthe same.....She is not qualified to be the VP of this country.

Fire GWEN,

How dare she! She has asked Senator Biden to lead with answers much more often than to Governor Palin. This has given Palin an advantage on how to answer the questions. She was able to take notes and be schooled on what is what, check her notes, and how to pose her answer because Biden was much more versed on the issues and understood the questions. She basically responded to Biden's answers and rarely answered the few question Gwen posed to her. Palin would change the focus to something that was either saying something contrary to Biden or of rehashing of restating a stump speech.

Shame on Gwen.

Gwen gave Palin the easy questions or ones that she already had answers to because she was asked before by the media.

Palin did not express war strategy like Biden did and it would have been evident if Gwen would have asked her first.

This was a waste of a debate.

Did Gwen cower to the book rumors or what?

Please PBS, do not allow her to moderate such important debates again.

Thank you CNN.

I am ready to vote democrat! US wake up, get smart, look at the economy, the mess we are in... we need talent like Biden and Obama! I am all for them. Palin did a terrible job reading her notes, she was nervous and never answered a question w a smart proposal for policy or change. And PLEASE who needs a 100 year old Maverick!? What the hell does that mean?We need change, we need smarts, we need energy!

Your Political commentators at CNN are shameless. Everyone on the panel is so biased, it is funny!. Why don't everyone on the panel just say they are voting for Barack Obama and end the show. I am an American African (born in America not Africa – hence, not African American – born African) who will vote for the McCain and Palin ticket. Gov. Palin won the debate hands down, however, I know "YOUR" polls will say different.

If this were a congeniality contest, maybe Sarah Palin would have won because she appealed to many "regular folks" and had alot of cute comebacks. But it's not about who I may want as a friend, it's about who I trust to help lead this country and Joe Biden delivered. He was comfortable and it was clear that he knew what he was talking about and believes that he can help make the change that we desperately need. Just because she didn't flop, doesn't make it a victory. We need to hold her accountable and stop letting her dodge the issues.

I loved the debate!! Biden is a great man with the right kind of experience to do the job. He was the winner! Very intelligent and knowledgable! Go Obama/Biden!! You have my vote!

roland, get a good night's sleep and don't go out for coffee with this group....they are all about political correctness....call it for what it is...

Well done to both of them. Joe Biden used his experience and Palin used all information which was dictated during past 2 weeks of campaign in McCain’s ranch and many other educated people who worked hard to make her ready. STILL she was off about mortgage crises and finance. But, fortunately there was an energy subject which she could talk about

Palin didn't answer any of the question she was asked...she completely avoided all this and spoke in undefined parables. She spoke of war, oil, and mavericks. This woman was completely coached and rehearse the questions and answers.

I am donating right now to the Obama Campaign. Sarah Palin should not be allowed to answer that 3am called.

Biden and Obama got my vote! They are smart, understand that we are in a state of despair and are between experience and education, they will do what it takes to make things right! Finally!!! They should hire the Clintons as financial, economic and world advisors. We love them!!

Good night, Roland. We teachers have to get up early and be ready to teach the voters of tomorrow! I learned what I wanted to know from the debate and the commentary here. Really good..... I will sleep well tonight.

Palin was excellent and true. Biden portrays himself as forever stuck in the Washington group of pointing fingers and blaiming someone else. I can sleep comfortably at nite knowing John MCain is guarding the country

I am a middle aged female white democrat. I supported John Edwards. I cried when I learned the truth about him. In the meantime, I moved on to support Hillary. I was very disappointed when she didn't win. However, I have always found Obama inspirational and I can sign on to his visionary message.

I do not agree with the views of Sarah Palin, but I was not rooting for her to stumble. I am very happy that she performed well in tonight's debate. Thoughtful people will be able to discern which position represents tthem best.

I resent being put into the media's "category" of "white women" because I think "our" view of this election is more complex than the media's interpretation. I have never been contacted by a pollster, so when I hear the "white women" statistic touted on the news, I wonder who they asked.....

God bless you all and this process.

If the republicans make it into office this time, I'm moving back to Europe.

I saw Joe Biden in Ohio a couple weeks ago. He is no different in person than on national TV. I now have more respect for the man than I did before tonight. You can talk all you want about her "zingers" and Biden's lack of a comeback, but if you use your brain and not your funny bone,,Biden won this debate hands down. His knowledge and bearing are so superior to her "Joe Six Packs", hockey mom rhetoric, I really don't see how you can imagine her as VP of the USA.

I agree with that last statement, Roland. I will only say that Palin has her own Pastor issues and I don't think they want to "go there". Besides, Palin has dragged so many bags on to the "straight talk express" that it is surely derailed for good.

Biden won the debate tonight. I do not understand why Palin did not answer a few questions and kept going back to old ones. Also, why did she always have to be reading off of a sheet of paper she had on the podium? It seems all of her answers were rehearsed.

Watching the debate was painful when having to listen to Gov. Palin evade the core of each question. She chose to ignore the question being asked and instead answer each question with the same tired tag lines over and over. I felt that there was so little substance behind each answer that regardles of whether I agree with her positions she did not represent them intelligently. The presidency requires someone polished and knowledgable who can interact with world leaders and generate respect by being able to convey their convictions in a way that sounds presidential, not like a small town mayor at a pep rally. Gov. Palin is only one person away from the presidency if John McCain wins and that scares me.
Joe Biden answered each question posed to him with candid factual statements. I feel he has the needed grasp of the world stage and the polish to step in as president if the worst were to occur.

Biden cleaned the floor with her but at least she didn't sound too nutty this time around.

Palin talked more of what "SHE would do" excluding what the ticket actually is McCain and her. In every comment Palin made was "I"! She did not have a answer for the future.... what the outcome of the bailout is going to do

Folks, don't ignore the dials of men and women.

More women than men will vote in this election. If the Obama camps continue to hammer home the issues affecting the pocketbook, they will continue to win women and win this election.

Mark my words: the McCain camp will spend the next five weeks trying to make this a character issue. They want – no, need – to bring Rev. Wright, William Ayers and any other boogeyman out in order to knock Obama down.

If it's the economy, he gets nailed, and Obama is sworn in on Jan. 20, 2007.

I knew I heard this and I've copied it straight from the transcript. Gov. Palin said in response to a question concerning whether Iraq is the front line in the war against terror, "I would believe Petraeus and the leader of al Qaeda."
She would BELIEVE the leader of al Qaeda!" God help us if she becomes VP. Look it up if you didn't hear her say it.

Biden definitely won this debate. He was articulate, knowledgeable,and respectful. Sen. Biden spoke with confidence, answered most of the questions asked, and tried to clarify incorrect or misleading statements made by Gov. Palin.
Gov. Palin did not make any great gaffs; she sounded well rehearsed & appeared to be confident. However, she seemed rather "cutesy" to me. Her use of folksy language sounded like she was saying, "Gosh, we're just plain folks like you"; or " Gee whiz, guys, John McCain & I are the mavericks & we'll get the job done for ya if ya send us to Washington". I found this to be unprofessional & an attempt to divert us all from her lack of knowledge & expertise. It would be interesting to see a debate between Gov. Palin & Hillary Clinton! What a difference there would be!!!

Palin and McCain are a shame to America. The only chance for the American people to regain the respect of other countries is to choose a President and a Vice-President who show a good command of the issues that matter in this moment. Vote for Biden and Obama! Do not vote for Bush's "nukelar" students.

Biden spoke to the american audience like he was a politition.

Palin spoke directly to the American People. Was easy to understand.

Who won? Who got their point accross best.? Who answered the questions best?

Palin did.

Great job Gov. Palin

McCain/Palin 08

Hillary Clinton issued the following statement responding to tonight’s vice presidential debate:

“Tonight's debate underscored the stark choice American families face in this election.

“I've known Senator Biden a long time – as Americans saw tonight, he is a strong, passionate and experienced leader. Like Barack Obama, Joe Biden understands both the economic stresses here at home and the strategic challenges in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world.

“We saw yet again that Senator McCain and Sarah Palin will offer only more of the same failed policies of the Bush Administration. America's hardworking Middle Class families deserve better.”

One of the biggest problems with our country is that people do not put aside their differences and look at things with an open mind. It's obvious from most of the posts on this page. GOV. Palin, (yes, she is a full-fledged governor, with more experience than Obama) did a superb job. Everyone says she didn't answer the questions. She absolutely did. She may not have said what you wanted to hear but she did answer them. She actually outdid Biden. He came across as crabby and looked very nervous when she continued to put forth great responses, even confronting him several times. One time you could even hear him when he let out a big sigh of exasperation! I have no doubt that Gov. Palin is completely ready to be VP and if had to, even President. She is professional, real, and someone to be admired. She has done so much for women. I'm amazed that so many women think she is dingy. How many dingy women do you know are governors? Yes, Alaska might not be a metropolius like New York but on a day-to-day basis she does the same as the governor of New York, or California. I know someone said some rude thing about her not supporting gays or knowing anything about them. Well, in fact, one of her best friends is gay. As a woman, I may not agree with everything she does, but I agree that she is ready to lead and will work hard for all Americans. Our country deserves to have a fabulous woman like Palin helping to lead it. I was going to say something bad about Obama but I am going to take the high road here, unlike most of you. GO MCCAIN/PALIN!!!

I'm sitting here watching AC360 debate analysis and am extremely surprised that no one has brought the fact that Sarah Palin probably did so well tonight because she has been coached for the last week or two on what to say. As opposed to when she had to ad-lib like she had to do during the TV interview last week she CHOKED !!!!!

HEY ALL OF YOU MCCAIN SUPPORTERS. WAKE UP. SHE DOESN'T HAVE IT. SHE'S TRYING BUT SHE JUST DOESN'T GET IT. SHE NEEDS TO GO BACK HOME AND BE THE ALASKA GOVERNOR AND A SOCCER MOM.

The Obama camp is quick to send out the CBS poll:

CBS NEWS/KNOWLEDGE NETWORKS POLL
(Uncommitted Voters who watched the debate)

46% of uncommitted voters who watched the debate tonight thought Joe Biden was the winner. 21% thought Sarah Palin won, 33% thought it was a draw… 98% after the debate saw [Biden] as knowledgeable (79% before the debate).

THIS IS A SIDESHOW!

Biden Raised the Bar! Palin couldnt even answer the questions, just like in the Katie Couric interviews..The poor woman is clueless! She looked great and she sounded good, BUT! What did she really say?
NOTHING! Maverick this,and energy that, and Alaska this, and Obama voted against the troop funding, etc..Biden really addressed the issues, and I think, appealed to the average American much better than Ms.Palin did.We shall see what effect this debate had on the public's opinion of her later this week!

Well Gosh Golly Darn Geez, I am an expert on wall street economics because I live 90 mins from New York City!!!

Does this sound crazy? Not to Palin. At least George Bush gives DUMB answers to the questions asked, she just avoids questions. She turns everything to hockey moms and energy. There is no hockey in my neighborhood, so how many people is she alienating by saying that? This is sexist but I dont care because I am a woman!
Are her tubes tied because there in no maternity leave in the White House. And her infant shows that she still makes gosh darn golly whoopy!
And sorry but I could give 2 craps about how you do it in Alaska, most of us still dont even accept it as a state. So please talk about something more than in Alaska. Is she the cheerleading coach now? U-S-A?

Biden did not win-No Way-Palin connected more. She won

Did Sarah have a binder in front of her? I saw her flipping tabs as though she was looking up answers. Please check on this. Also, did Joe have notes too?

Govenor Palin did a remarkable job, even as an Obama supporter, I really wish she was on the ticket of Obama instead of Biden.

I thought Biden sounded old fashion, and having been in D.C. so long you would think he had more to say about his own record. So it made me wonder if he had any accomplishments.

joe biden won, hands down. Full stop. You can't say enough about how good Joe Biden did in this debate.

CNN's snap poll of voters say that Biden was the overwhelming winner.

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Did the Best Job

In the Debate?

Biden 51%

Palin 36%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Regardless of which candidate you happen to support, who do you think did the best job in the debate – Joe Biden or Sarah Palin?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Did Biden Do Better or

Worse Than You Expected?

Better 64%

Worse 14%

Same 20%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Did Joe Biden do a better or worse job than you expected?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Did Palin Do Better or

Worse Than You Expected?

Better 84%

Worse 7%

Same 8%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Did Sarah Palin do a better or worse job than you expected?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Opinion of Joe Biden

Before After

Debate Debate

Favorable 58% 69%

Unfavorable 35% 28%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Do you have a favorable or unfavorable opinion of Joe Biden?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Opinion of Sarah Palin

Before After

Debate Debate

Favorable 48% 56%

Unfavorable 47% 42%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Do you have a favorable or unfavorable opinion of Sarah Palin?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Is Biden Qualified

To Serve as President?

Yes 87%

No 12%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Is Biden Qualified

To Serve as President?

Before After

Debate Debate

Yes 78% 87%

No 19% 12%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Based on what you know about Joe Biden, do you think he is qualified to serve as president if it becomes necessary, or not?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Is Palin Qualified

To Serve as President?

Yes 46%

No 53%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Is Palin Qualified

To Serve as President?

Before After

Debate Debate

Yes 42% 46%

No 54% 53%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Based on what you know about Sarah Palin, do you think she is qualified to serve as president if it becomes necessary, or not?

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Was More Intelligent

In the Debate?

Biden 57%

Palin 26%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Expressed Their Views

More Clearly in the Debate?

Biden 52%

Palin 36%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Spent More Time

Attacking the Opponent?

Biden 43%

Palin 36%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Was More Likeable

In the Debate?

Palin 54%

Biden 36%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Was More In Touch With the

Problems of People Like You

In the Debate?

Biden 50%

Palin 44%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Seemed More Likely

To Bring Change?

Biden 53%

Palin 42%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Who Seemed More Like a

Typical Politician?

Biden 70%

Palin 21%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Thinking about the following characteristics and qualities, please say whether you think each one better described Joe Biden or Sarah Palin during tonight's debate. Was more intelligent Expressed their views more clearly Spent more time attacking their opponent Was more likeable Was more in touch with the needs and problems of people like you Seemed more likely to bring the kind of change the country needs Seemed more like a typical politician

CNN/OPINION RESEARCH CORPORATION POLL

October 2

DEBATE WATCHERS

Did Gwen Ifill Treat the

Candidates Fairly?

Yes 95%

No 4%

Sampling error: +/-4% pts

QUESTION Do you believe that the moderator of the debate, Gwen Ifill treated the candidates fairly or unfairly?

PARTY I.D. FOR U.S. POPULATION - DEMOCRAT 36%, INDEP 36%, REPUBLICAN 27%

PARTY I.D. FOR TONIGHT'S SAMPLE - DEMOCRAT 37%, INDEP 31%, REPUBLICAN 31%

It seems to me that neither candidate made any serious gaffes, and Sarah Palin held her own while Joe Biden held back his tongue. Nonetheles, Palin's folksy homespun manner and expressions seemed over the top and phoney to me. She ducked out of anwering any questions she didn't want to.

But folks, this won't matter one bit come election day. This election is between Obama and McCain and will be won or lost on the issues. McCain keeps screwing up and acting like an idiot, changing his stance putting up lying ads that are turning people off.

The only mavericks I support are the Dallas Mavericks!!!

I am absolutely enthralled with CNN's trailing ratings of Ohio undecided voters. The difference between men and women is fascinating. What's better, the Ohio voters really aren't buying Palin's favorite notes: "success" in Iraq in particular turns the ratings WAY down. I think the Ohio undecideds have let the Republicans know that Americans are no where near as stupid as the Republcians seem to think.

And why does she keep calling Sen. Obama "Barack."?

The fact that Palin was first to try and own the parent of special circumstances was sickening. Senator Biden was right to straighten her out by stating his personal familiar circumstances. He showed how much he can care about people when he got chocked up about HIS kids. Shame on Palin... trying to use her "mom" role to get the vote. She showed her lack of a soul.

From Obama campaign manager David Plouffe:

“Joe Biden won a clear victory tonight because he made a passionate case for change from the disastrous economic and foreign policies of the last eight years, and Sarah Palin defended them. While Governor Palin blindly supports John McCain’s plan for more of the same policies that have devastated Main Street and let Wall Street run wild, Joe Biden spoke clearly and strongly about Barack Obama’s plan for a tax cut for the middle class, health care that is affordable, and an end to the war in Iraq. Tonight, the American people saw why Barack Obama chose Joe Biden, a statesman from Scranton who clearly has the experience and knowledge to be a great Vice President."

First of all, this really was a good debate. I don't know if I've ever seen one this good.

Strictly in terms of debate performance, Biden won. He was masterful. Truly professional and remarkably knowledgeable.

But Palin and McCain will gain much more from this debate than will Biden and Obama. That's partly because so many had low expectations for Palin, and she boosted her image by coming across as clear-headed, poised, confident, articulate and on message. She was not as good at the facts, but she was good at presence and confidence, and she played her folksy style effectively for her base.

Her performance will allow some people who were drifting away from McCain and doubting his judgment to drift back into McCain's camp.

Gov Palin did better than what I expected but she kept losing me at times and seemed to be answering questions not answered.
Joe could have tore her up but remained a gentleman.

The spin room for both camp is busy, busy, busy!

Here is what the McCain is sending out:

"Joe Biden graduated from his trademark verbal gaffe to outright lie in tonight’s debate. Each time Senator Biden was on his heels, he looked directly into the camera and lied - more than a dozen times by our count. He lied about John McCain's record, his own record, and Barak Obama's dangerous policies. Governor Palin showed the American people tonight why a McCain-Palin Administration will bring real reform, leadership, and straight talk to Washington.” –Tucker Bounds, spokesman McCain-Palin 2008

JOE BIDEN’S 14 LIES TONIGHT

1. TAX VOTE: Biden said McCain voted “the exact same way” as Obama to increase taxes on Americans earning just $42,000, but McCain DID NOT VOTE THAT WAY.

2. AHMEDINIJAD MEETING: Joe Biden lied when he said that Barack Obama never said that he would sit down unconditionally with Mahmoud Ahmedinijad of Iran. Barack Obama did say specifically, and Joe Biden attacked him for it.

3. OFFSHORE OIL DRILLING: Biden said, “Drill we must.” But Biden has opposed offshore drilling and even compared offshore drilling to “raping” the Outer Continental Shelf.”

4. TROOP FUNDING: Joe Biden lied when he indicated that John McCain and Barack Obama voted the same way against funding the troops in the field. John McCain opposed a bill that included a timeline, that the President of the United States had already said he would veto regardless of it’s passage.

5. OPPOSING CLEAN COAL: Biden says he’s always been for clean coal, but he just told a voter that he is against clean coal and any new coal plants in America and has a record of voting against clean coal and coal in the U.S. Senate.

6. ALERNATIVE ENERGY VOTES: According to FactCheck.org, Biden is exaggerating and overstating John McCain’s record voting for alternative energy when he says he voted against it 23 times.

7. HEALTH INSURANCE: Biden falsely said McCain will raise taxes on people's health insurance coverage - they get a tax credit to offset any tax hike. Independent fact checkers have confirmed this attack is false

8. OIL TAXES: Biden falsely said Palin supported a windfall profits tax in Alaska - she reformed the state tax and revenue system, it's not a windfall profits tax.

9. AFGHANISTAN / GEN. MCKIERNAN COMMENTS: Biden said that top military commander in Iraq said the principles of the surge could not be applied to Afghanistan, but the commander of NATO's International Security Assistance Force Gen. David D. McKiernan said that there were principles of the surge strategy, including working with tribes, that could be applied in Afghanistan.

10. REGULATION: Biden falsely said McCain weakened regulation - he actually called for more regulation on Fannie and Freddie.

11. IRAQ: When Joe Biden lied when he said that John McCain was “dead wrong on Iraq”, because Joe Biden shared the same vote to authorize the war and differed on the surge strategy where they John McCain has been proven right.

12. TAX INCREASES: Biden said Americans earning less than $250,000 wouldn’t see higher taxes, but the Obama-Biden tax plan would raise taxes on individuals making $200,000 or more.

13. BAILOUT: Biden said the economic rescue legislation matches the four principles that Obama laid out, but in reality it doesn’t meet two of the four principles that Obama outlined on Sept. 19, which were that it include an emergency economic stimulus package, and that it be part of “part of a globally coordinated effort with our partners in the G-20.”

14. REAGAN TAX RATES: Biden is wrong in saying that under Obama, Americans won't pay any more in taxes then they did under Reagan.

sarah palin, will be 100 times worse than cheney, they think alike how to be vp but have more power than the president. she stayed with her stump speech and never answered a direct question, and why are her children never in school? since alaska has the lowest rate of drop outs, child iq levels?

Neither... It was a weak and boring. All three (iincluding Gwen) stumbled over their words and had a hard time just simply speaking at times. Biden was strong & confident but but didn't know how to handle Palin at first. With all of his experience he should have won hands down. Palin was down home American and sorta cute (tried too hard) but made a number of mistakes (including not knowing the correct name of the general in Afghanistan). Biden let her go instead of going for the kill and Palin sounded very coached. All in all, in my average Joe six-pack opinion, I'm really tired of politics and media in this country. Listening to the commentary on the debates one has to wonder what debate were they watching. I'm sitting here at a watch party with women and men flipping between NBC and ABC and gotta tell you, there are a lot of smart people say a lot of stupid stuff tonight trying to expalin why one was stronger than the other. Sad thing is we have to vote for someone...all things considered, and based on the two debates, I'm a Republican that would rather see Obama/Biden in teh White House then McCain/Palin. Maybe the next two debates will bring me back home. Just can't see it. Plus when you check the facts... Give me the John McCain of 1999!!!

Truth and sincerity was what we saw from Gov Palin. Biden was a robot. She got a lot of votes

I would invest in a bridge to nowhere if Senator Biden were selling it. He proved smart, competent, and knew very well the subject matter asked of him. Obama made a fantastic choice for his running mate. He did a great job, a clear A.

Governor Palin looked like she memorized a few dozen talking points very well, she did not master them and didn't know when or how to use them. She's not ready for this. I would give her a B-, considering where she stood Thursday morning, for avoiding really incoherent moments, though I don't think she's made a case to independents to stem the general sway toward Sen. Obama.

Yes! Biden won! I knew he would do better than Palin. I only wish they didn't let her get away with avoiding the questions she couldn't answer. Palin did better than expected, but I am not impressed. Let's not mistake "better" for "good".

Joe Biden won! She was a disaster, She managed to go thru the debate without straight answers and only repeating the talking points she has been rehearsing.

She is not ready to be 2nd in command.

I am curious Sarah Palin kept saying Joe Biden kept referring to the past . How many times did he refer to the past and how many times did she ?

Roland,

I did not understand Palin's answer to anything. She did answers any of the questions. She went on and on about her qualifications a s mayor and as Governor all night without any answer.

she won this one hands down........she called him on things that barrack obama stated during the debates.....she is more qualified to be the president than barrack obama for sure!!!!!!!

I'm tired of hearing that Palin held her own, because she somehow endeared herself to Americans once again-is this a beauty pageant?? In a presidential debate she just doesn't add up. She looked like she was running for Student Council.

What this country does not need is another "folksy" talkin' leader. It should be a requirement of anyone pursuing the highest offices in the country to correctly pronounce the word "nuclear."

Can somebody define why McCain likes to be called a maverick? Isn't that what we've had for the last 8 years? Palin called herself a maverick. That is the last thing this country needs right now.

How important is this election?

I had middle schoolers at a football game wishing the game would hurry up and end so they could get home in time to watch the debate.

Let's see who the future generation of voters would vote for.

Great debate, and I thought Sarah Palin did a fantastic job! I had
expected Joe Biden to win, having been in government for all these years, but it was Gov. Palin who "took the day."

Palin did not have the facts, she only knows alaska not the USA

But hey she is cute and did a good job today .

The notion that the VP could run this country at moment's notice makes this debate very important.

The idea that Palin could be president is downright SCARY

Biden absolutely won the debate

Biden has destroyed her on every issue. How can anyone try to spin this her way?

She doesn't sound as dumb as I thought she was, but she still has no grasp on the issues. She has mastered the Art of Dodging questions.

Biden rocked Palin's world. Palin was constantly ducking & dodging the moderator's questions. That shows how competent she is and how well she will handle the role of VP. BIDEN ALL THE WAY!

Sarah Palin was not her ridiculous self tonight and did much better than she has with her interviews with Charlie Gibson and Katie Couric but Joe Biden, stuck straight to the facts and knew what he was talking about. That is what impressed me the most. I will definitely be voting for Obama/Biden. Sarah Palin, has a lot more to experience and learn before she can take on the White House. Alaska? Maybe. White House? No.

I agree that "Maverick" term as been thrown around too loosely during this campaign....

McCain/Palin need to really define how being "mavericks" are going to benefit us all domestically and internationally..

Roland hit the nail on the head today. Republicans had low expectations for Palin and she lived up to them!!!

I agree that Palin's remark about Biden's wife was just a little insensitive. On all the main issues, in the first part of the debate, her answer went back to energy. War in Iraq? Energy. House bailout? Energy. What's today's date? Energy. Honestly, I get that that's her strong point but she seemed to have no clue on how to answer questions that involved her going outside of the script that she was given by McCain's advisors. I don't see how McCain could have picked her for VP. It makes no sense. I wouldn't trust her to run this country at all. She's barely running Alaska.

Biden won, and we all knew he would. come on

I'm tired of hearing that Palin held her own, because she somehow endeared herself to Americans once again-is this a beauty pageant?? In a presidential debate she just doesn't add up. She looked like she was running for Student Council.

If you are happy with a hockey mom (or a Governor of a state with the population less than the City of Indanapolis) as VP then Pallin held her own. If experience and content count then Biden did well and continued to widen the lead that is growing for Obama

Biden clearly won the debate in my view, did anyone notice during the debate when she said Al Quaeda was shia muslim? Once again showing the understanding of republicans and her own campaigns misunderstanding of the muslim world and their diferences?

Govenor Palin was outstanding in the debate far more sincere and realistic than Senator Biden. She is a real maverik and she does exemplifiy change in Washington and in America. Mccain Palin have it for reform and change - all the way

Really interesting how Sarah Palin could sound so totally UNINFORMED when questioned by Katie Couric and then turn in a respectable performance during the debate??? She must have had one heck of a "CRAM" session at McCain's Sedona estate!!! Memorizing McCain's position for her debate "performance" doesn't mean she is qualified to be a heartbeat away from being the President of the US. She was well coached and must have had a great deal of material to commit to memory before the debate. She is still unqualified to be vice president of the United States!!!

No game-changer for this undecided voter tonight...BUT...Joe Biden provided the only "human" moment when he choked up when talking about his family. I respect him a little more as a person after that, for letting the slick, politcal guard down for a moment.

Please, America...PLEASE. Keep this crazy, uninformed lady out of the white house! Please, I was undecided until tonight, oh my GOD! Please America!

God the only thing Biden Killed was Biden/Obama being elected. He can always go back to practicing law maybe.

Biden won. Palin did not answer the questions asked and kept in her comfort zone. Biden was right on!

Joe Biden won hands down. I don't think Palin listens when asked a question. Her answers were not ok, not for a vice president of the United States of America. And to be blunt, from here in Australia, it's a rather scary thing listening to her disjointed sentences that half the time made no sense. I cannot be 'kind' to her. The vice presidency is TOO important for that.

I am saying an extra prayer tonight for sure after watching this debate that Obama wins this election because I can't stand the thought of Palin making major decisions on my great country of America to keep me safe from terriotists or making this economy better.

Oh and did anybody else notice that she mis-pronounced nuclear, I bet she could've used that speechwriter from the convention, remember Roland, when her tele-promptor phonetically spelled 'new-clear' for her.

Right back to nucular huh?

I view Palin's performance as putting a tourniquet on. True the bleeding has stop- but what's more importance- is the patient is still in very bad shape.

Joe Biden won the debate! He spoke about the issues that
the people wanted to hear. Jobs, people losing there homes,
health care. Those are issues that most concern me and others!

Gov. Palin turned in a performance. Sen. Biden provided us a view of what competence and intellect look like in action. How did her coaches miss the fact that she can't properly pronounce the words, "Iraq" and "nuclear?"

Biden for sure! I heard specifics from him on almost every answer. Where were her's? And i think she was a little disrespectful to the moderator on the question about the vp position.

In almost every question posed to the candidates Biden responded with specifics while Palin responded with either clearly canned responses (some almost identical to parts of her Couric interview) or outright gibberish. If this was a boxing match it may not have been a knockout for Biden, but it was a clear victory with him winning every round.

Thank you Sarah Palin for basically reciting a speech and using a few stored facts. Thank you as well to the McCain campaign for trying to sell Americans a "characterization or persona" in one Sarah Palin.
Biden won the debate easily, although the whole debate was like a mine field.

Sarah would make a great VP for an advertising agency. All slogans and no substance. She kept changing the subject, while Biden was right on target. Biden won....hands down.

You have got to be kidding me.

Palin has no command of facts or figues, votes or vetos. How can she preside over the senate or possible guide a troubled country if she can't answer a straight forward question. Gwen was lobbing them out there and Biden was being extremely kind... and Palin was still unable to answer a question.

I can tell you that the folksy phrases didn't play with me. I want my VP boring, intelligent and not evil (a la Cheney).

Palin said she is not ready for presidential politics because she has only been there for 5 weeks.

I think anyone watching this evening knows that there is no repeat moment in presidential politics. There is no time to take back mistakes.

All her acting was like she was in a beauty context. except that the moose played a game on her

We just can trust our future in her hands. photo .

My husband and I normally vote Republican, however this yearwe are definitely voting for Obama/Biden. We need change and leaders who will listen to our needs on key issues. If they want to spend a trillion dollars raising taxes to help everyday people I would rather do that then have another trillion dollar bail out the banks plan that would be inevitable with a McCain mentality that is for corporate America.

Biden definitely won.

America iscertainly not ready for a VP who says that "I've only been at this for five weeks" She is not ready!

The health insurance did it for me. I have several medical problem's I don't believ I could get health insurance for any amount,with out a group coverage. And $5.000 wouldn't begin to cover a preieum for me.

I think Biden won on substance – which is the most important thing in debates....and Palin only won points to hold up her public image showing she can go toe to toe in this debate. That being said she still did not convince me on how or why I should be confident or secure in having her take such a high seat in government or being a hearbeat away from being the President.

There were no major "gaffes" on either side as all were anticipating. Earlier Palin seemed to be speaking from memorized cramming sessions, then seemed to get in a comfort zone later on. While Biden was able to handle his own easily.

Joe Biden put that cheerleader out of words. America look at her debate answers she is clueless and not ready to lead this great nation. I do not know that if she did not answer the question asked but, she did not answer them directly. Joe Biden is the projected winner of that debate

Tonight shows that not only Joe Biden is Vice Presidential ready, he is also Presidential ready!

Why do you suppose Gov. Palin avoided to answer certain questions?

Is Palin the most qualified Republican McCain could find? What an insult to women and America.

Biden won
The republican's have engineered the greatest financial rape of this country for the last 8 years , Every recession every war and the biggest government defcit spending and biggest growth of government
has happened during republican administartions while they espouse the opposite and use jingoism and patriotism to fool people that they stand for the opposite. If you tell a lie often enough people believe it even in the face of the truth.
It is time for a change.

A few of the times she did not even answer the questions. She started talking the same way she spoke to Katie Couric, just without all of the Uhs, hems, haws. It should not be considered a win for her since she did not lose. Even I can debate if I am coached for a week. There was no substance in her discussions. And by the way, who the hell is "Joe 6 pack?" We prefer Absolut with a twist. I cannot relate to a lipsticked pit bull, hockey mom who's name is joe that drinks beer. Give us a break.

Go Biden, Go!!!!!
He killed it tonight. He was so good and strong.
I loved the fact that Biden talked about him being a single parent.
He started to chock up there and even I started to tear up myself

I found Biden blabblering all over the place. He did not connect like Gov Palin did. She did Great. He look like a robot.

It was obvious on the foreign policy issues that Palin really didn`t know what she was talking about she often could not respond to Biden about the foreign policy issues she would keep going back to energy in Alaska.

Biden by a landslide. No detail from Sarah, just the same words over & over again. She would not even answer the questions. Of course, if you're a maverick, you can do whatever you want; you don't have to answer to the American people.

Biden won? Against who??? He rarely answered a question clearly, instead relying on the old democratic standby of pointing fingers at the past instead of stating what he would do in the future. Palin was a clear winner. Prior to this debate I would have thought Biden would win but he showed me he is more a reactionary person rather proactive with his thoughts and ideas. For the Anti- Palin crowd, it wouldn't make a difference had she hit a home run, you would still discredit her and not give her her due. Save America, DONT vote for Obama/Biden!!

Old tired out Joe Blew it!

ie Roland Martins 10:05 comment. "biden couldn't of smacked her, or words to that effect. Well if he had he probably would have been gutted like a moose. The majority of you people are morons, born and bred. God help us.

Biden got his butt kicked. He made an admirable effort, but he lost.

Conservatives are jumping with joy! Palin didn't fall on her face!
Of course she didn't answer specific questions either! She just made up the questions...and then answered them! Amazing! Psychotic!
Biden CLEARLY has a grasp of the problems our country faces, Domestic and Foreign, and can respond with sensible answers off the cuff.
Palin will take years to catch up!
WE DON'T HAVE THAT LONG!
And, for her to channel Ol' Ronald Reagan: "Here you go again, Joe"
Enough said about a McCain/Palin American future!

Gov. Palin's tactics tonight has been one of evasion. She's stuck purely to pre-prepared statements–snippets from previous speeches or developed for the debate. She's made no effort to actually debate Biden–she's tried to make the debate a stump speech. We still have no idea what she actually thinks.

So in an interview before she was selected for the ticket she did not know what the VP does, now she wants an expanded role for the VP?

I was absolutley ILL watching and listening to this woman.

She is so confused, time to go back to Alaska... She was horrible!!!!

Biden, hands down.

Palin did better than I thought she would do; certainly no disaster.

But Biden clearly won the debate start to finish.

He knows what he is talking about, and you can feel it. She on the other hand sounded as if she spent alot of time (in Az.) being "TAUGHT" what to say. I don't believe she is not only ready to be Vice Presidnet, or God Forbid, President of the USA. Her "Home Town" good ole girl comments were "cute", but she can't get away with that running a country!!!!!

HELLO>>>BIDEN WON! He was excellent and had an answer for every bit of foolishness she tried to spit his way. She was trying to be cute and this was not the time nor place. She kept dancing around in her responses and they lacked any real substance.

The problem here is the voting Americans have allowed the politicians divide us as Americans. When Bill Clinton came into office the spending spree began and "ALL" the politicians jumped on board and now look at the mess we are in. I chose to leave both the left & right to become an Independent at vote for the best person. For the first time in over 20 years I wasn't going to vote in a Presidential Election. That was until Sarah Palin came on the scene. Palan battle the a die hard politician and held her own. For the first time I really believe someone is going to clean up Congress.

First off, the republicans had a brillant strategy in that they lowered the expectations so much for her that anything beyond crash and burn would be a success and I must say she was doing quite well until she dropped the bomb: SHE EQUATED HERSELF WITH DICK CHENEY! He only has the worst approval rating of anyone and she said she agreed with Cheney that she thought the VP should have MORE power. That did it, she's sunk

Palin won. The debate is to prove yourself worthy of the job...everybody knows how great of a debater Biden is, yet Palin was the huge surprise tonight. Just holding her own against a known debater proves herself. Even if the two were equal on debating abilities, I would still think Palin had the debate. She got Biden laughing too often, which is a sign of defeat.

Biden clearly won this one. He was more coherent and to the point. Palin STILL sounds completely rehearsed. I know who I'm voting for and that's Obama/Biden

Did Governor Palin actually answer any of her questions that were asked to her?

Beauty Queen from Alaska did not persuade me (or most likely any of you) to vote for the McCain/Palin administration.

Be smart America! Be selfless! Don't vote for yourself; vote for your country! This is more patriotic than wearing a flag pin on your lapel!

OBAMA/BIDEN '08!!!

Biased any Roland?

Yes......she did call Biden....."Obiden".......

Biden won this debate hands down!

Palin read her lines from the podium and did not have an original thought in her head. What's with the I'm going to answer what I want? She needs to answer questions not spout out some canned answer. She wants more power in the VP role. I don't think so!

By the way I'm an independent and I made my mind up tonight to vote for Barack Obama!

–John Doherty

Roland you are awesome and my kids love you!

The boot Camp for Palin unfortunately did not do much but alot of memorising the answers and diverting from the answer, she's definitely a big mistake.

Wow.

People are dazzled by Palin since this wasn't Couric Part 3.

How about some details about what McCain-Palin plan to do?

Not a single detail. Not a shred of anything comprehensible.

Biden hands down.

We must look forward to a NEW administration, who ever wins the election. I think all have learned from past errors & want to change the way government is run. I think Palin will best serve McCain's agenda in the event she may step in. I'm not so certain about Biden following through with Obama's agenda though.

I believe that Palin won this debate and showed strength in many areas... energy, executive experience, prior business experience... and she called Biden on some past comments he has made. Let us not forget that Joe Biden said Obama was not ready to be the President of the United States. Biden said that he might be ready someday but is not now and that this is not a job that lends itself to on the job training.

For VP, I am looking for someone who can make a good team with the President and it seems that Biden opposed most things that Obama stood for UNTIL he was asked to be his VP.

The Presidential nominees could learn a lesson about debating from Biden and Palin, I got more out of this debate than i suspect i will from the next two presidential debates. Biden AAA+++

Are we a global economy or is everything simply based off of Alaska's standards.
Palin did not seem to understand anything beyond her own state of Alaska, her lack of experience to the economy and the world was evident tonight.

By the way what is this Maverick mess?

Biden is a genius.He should be elected emperor for life.

I think her debate style is kind of frivolous.
Maybe some people like it but I don't, considering she is campagning for V.P.
She did well in the first half, but as it moved to foreign issues, she did not, as predicted, show enough content in her.

But to be fair, what she did has exceeded what has been expected out of her.

ROLAND DID YOU SEE THE MCCAIN AD WITH RAINES ABOUT THE BAIL OUTS. HOW INTERESTING THAT THE REPUBLICANS PUT THE FACE OF AN AFRICAN AMERICAN FRONT AND CENTER THEN SHOWED SENATOR OBAMA'S FACE. I KNEW THAT THEY WERE GOING TO PULL A WILLIE HORTON SOMETIME. THE REPUBLICANS CANNOT GET AWAY FROM BIGOTRY AND RACISM
KENNETH

what the hell was that! A Pete and repeat contest? Palin, was horrible! she hardly ever answered a complete question.

They're going to have to rewrite the movie Top Gun, because I am no longer saying that word. It does not mean what I think she thinks it means.

As to who won – she won the winking competition and Ms Congeniality. He won on substance and not coming across as a sexist lecturer.

All in all – Biden won the debate.

Being folksy and winking at the camera doesn't cut it! Palin is way short on substance and can only response with canned responses. I noted at least 9 questions that she could not and did not answer directly. Biden ran rings around her – he's sharp, experienced and ready to lead if need be. Biden definitely showed he will be the next Vice President.

Palin – Can't remember the general's name, wouldn't answer questions about bankruptcy, etc. Not a Katie Couric moment, but very close and SNL will have a field day. this weekend! "Can I call you Joe?" PLEASE, step aside. Thumbs up to Biden, I was worried he would make a blunder, but he had very good self control and restrained himself for correcting Palin when she kept mispronouncing the general's name. My mind is made up after tonight – Obama/Biden

Did I hear her say O'Biden somewhere in the debate?

I really don't know where to begin. I'm still stunned that she's even up there at the podium.

That being said, would someone for the Love of God give that woman a "g" to put on the end of her words.

She has the nerve to talk about improving education when every single word that SHOULD end in a "g" doesn't include one.

She just sounds ignorant rather than her lame attempt to feel closer to "middle America." It's insulting!

this is the most liberal bunch of guys. Is there one republican in this room? Just curious.

I was offended by Palin's remark about the government. As a government employee, I do not know of a harder working or more dedicated workforce. Palin's comments devalue what we do.

In this format Gov. Palin was ok. Sen. Biden was outstanding. One could see his superior debate skills by answering the question and backing it up with facts. Gov. Palin needs to take debate 101–Answer the question.

I've tivo'd the debate. I am specifically going to watch it again to count how many times Palin said "maverick" and "reform" .

Roland,
I was not impressed by Palin... totally not a VP choice America needs. There were questions she did not answer not ready to lead... She is not a Maverick – need more training.

She obviously does not know the definition of an Achilles heel.

Wow... I was so impressed with Joe Biden tonight. He certainly was in a tough position from the start but he aquitted himself nicely. Great debate. I believe he won hands down... and made quite a few attacks on McCain that landed.

Sarah Palin danced around nearly every question. I think that she is absolutely unsuited for being anywhere near the presidency.

Biden won hands down and I agree with unbelieveable....she's rude and very disrespectful. Palin hits below the belt and that's her purpose in this campaign. I personally feel she stated the "heaven" comment to throw Biden off! Thank GOD he did not fall into her trap.

Palin hardly answered any of the question straight forward or with facts. She's the one out of touch....not McCain!

BLAH-BLAH-BLAH BYE BYE BIDEN!!!!!

Palin – did she answer any questions? Were we talking about Alaska the entire night?

I loved Biden's confidence when answering the questions and I really enjoyed when he stood up for fathers, she tried to play the mom card. He was very clear and concise sorry for the republicans unless it was about energy (which I will give Plain she is good on Energy) she could not answer nor pronounce foreign leaders name.

Biden wins hands down! Go Dems!

Biden won. Palin didn't make any huge mistakes, but she didn't answer any questions either. How many questions did she answer by saying we have to stop "greed and corruption". She admonished Biden for looking back at Bush's policies, but has no response when he suggests McCain's policies are the same as Bush's. Biden's attack on McCain being a Maverick was also great.

[Sarah Palin] has lied tonight about building schools in Afghanistan, there are no such federal efforts to build schools in Afghanistan. This link is the only evidence of American activity to influence education in Afghanistan

http://www.pbs.org/now/news/309-transcript.html

Other than that, she did what she was supposed to do and that was to be a promotional tool for John McCain, Biden attached McCain to Bush and really stuck with the basic strategy. Had he deviated (which he is known to do) Palin might have run out in front tonight on VP duties.

No Obama
I want Mccain to win
Go get em Palin
Go get em John
Every one calm down the
Republicans are goona win.

Mr. Martin, I completely agree with you. How can you expect the possibile president to be effective if his or her mediocracy is being viewed as okay. Step your game up and make us believe. Having said that, Biden did an awesome job addressing issues and actually answering the questions.

Biden won. There is no debating that.

How can people be serious about a Biden Obama ticket. Obama picks a man that says he is unfit to be commander and chief and that he would be proud to be McCain's running mate. Now he has completely went the other way. For a ticket that promises change, it sure looks like more of the same. I hate when people question my intelligence.

Biden won this debate. Palin came in with a script and followed it, and didn't answer the questions. She even admitted she wasn't going to answer the questions in the way Biden or the moderator wanted.

Biden won. Palin was like a robot that just repeated what had been put into its limited memory banks. Plus, I thought her remark about Biden's wife getting her reward in heaven was incredibly mean given that Biden's first wife died in a car accident.

Sure she can do better with rehearsed lines...Ive noticed alot of her talk was lines that McCain uses and phrases he uses. Not her own. She repeated alot to take up time... not a whole lot of specifics. She can talk about backwards all she wants she did just as much. Double speak. As well as FALSE statements against Obama/Biden records.

I think Biden did AWESOME!! He was right on with everything and loved him. Palin put me to sleep with her blabbering BUT Biden really kept my attention!!

Biden rocked the house!

Great job Gov Palin. You are definately Main Street America. I will vote for you hands down!!

This debate just reiterated why I stopped supporting McCain after his VP decision was announced.

Roland, I did not see one negative comment towards Biden; not one. Also, no issues of race in your comments? This must be a first, or I didn't look closely enough.

I watched literally one minute right before I put my kids to bed earlier. As a conservative, I'll go ahead and say (without watching any more of the debate) that Palin will not prevail tonight.

Knowledge is one thing, delivery is another. Someone can have no to little knowledge, make an excellent delivery and come out smelling like a rose. Obama has proven this time and time again. It won't happen for Palin.

But what I really can't wait to see is the commentary by Roland. His columns and his TV commentary during the conventions clearly prove that he cannot wait for Obama to be president. It's clear that he just wants a black man as president, period. It comes across as being personal & that he (Roland) has ax to grind. Palin could wipe the floor with Biden, it could be as plain as day, with virtually every paper or website concurring, and Martin still wouldn't write a glowing review.

Biden – on point, in St. Louis
Palin – no point on Plant Pluto

I only watched about 10 minutes of the debate and not only could Palin not answer the questions, she pretty much refused too albeit politely, and when that didn't work she just answered in circles as if she forgot her lines. I kept up with comments on this blog and I can see the entire debate went along the lines of the 10 minutes I could barely stand to watch. It's a slap in the face to women in America, shame on you McCain.

the diva took it

Joe Biden won the debate

the political pundits say she lived up to the low bar that she set..is this what this country is about ..mediocriity? she beat the bar of mediocrity and didnt fall flat on her face,whew!!!...i hear releif that she didnt mess up..is that what we expect from our VPs and potential presidents? not fall flat on their face....WOOOOOOOW!
I do not want a six pack Joe as my VP..i want an intelligent person!erudite,sensible and humble ....sarah clearly lives in her la la land wiht alaskan sunsets ...

Palin has no idea what shes talking about.

She is so far removed that its uncomfortable.

bidn got his butt hand to him

Can someone please tell Gov. Palin that it's not I-rak the pronounciation is Iraq pronounced E-raak. she is killing me ! She did not answer one question with a straight answer.

Bide won hands down. Palin was better than with Katie but her weaknesses still showed through.

I was offended by Palin's remark government remark. As a government employee, I do not know of a work force that is more dedicated or hard-working.

From reading the first 50 comments it is obvious Roland which direction your readers face. Biden got his butt kicked. At times he was shaken, desperate, repetitive, looking backward and loosing his focus. And I'm not a Palin supporter. Much better debate than the first McCain/Obama
Again the audience was polite and respectful. That is an improvement also.

It doesn't matter. This is the worst election ever. This election isn't even a choice, it's an ultimatum

My friends, as you know congress runs this country. If Palin wears her hair down or shaved off is erelevent. Please name the last VP that did anything for this country. LBJ?

Congress needs to get their act together or we're all screwed.

............and everyone needs to stop believing the media and make up their own minds as to who they prefer to run our country.

Two words for Biden – You Won!

Two words for Palin – Well Coached!

Palin did not answer the questions with any substance. She clearly did not demonstrate knowledge on policy. I found her style to be robotic and well rehearsed. It is amazing that the CNN political team is not calling her performance out as terrible. Did we watch the same performance? She was absolutely terrible.

Biden hands down!

Gov Palin was more concise, intelligent, & informed. He stumbled at least 5 times & I worry about that because I am a democrat. That party line has disappeared from my vision. She just seemed more trustworthy, too. Biden's skin looked just awful, is he feeling well? I hope it's just the stress of the campaign.

Biden was professional and managed to restrain himself at the best of times, giving professional answers. His only downside probably was getting a bit too technical on some of the answers.

Palin, on the other hand seemed to wander all over the place, never really answering the questions asked. She also seemed to insult the moderator by going on and on with her own topics when they weren't asked for. I think this will hurt the McCain campaign in the long run.

I almost turned the channel from the beginning. All this talk about Joe Biden being respectful because he is debating a female...and what does the female do? OFF THE BAT SHE GIVES A WINK!!! Talk about sexism.....I felt she was flirting with the viewer (male). This was a debate not a beauty contest. Her "cutsy, flirty, girlish" manner was degusting. Even though Biden was clearly the WINNER of this debate with his vast knowledge, experience, and statesman like demeaner, I will agree that Palin was well coached and it showed.

I think both candidates won. They won because they had different objectives. Palin's objective was to at least sound competent, credible, and reach back to that cute, folksy, joe-six pack image. Biden's objective was to attack McCain and thoroughly contrast the diametrical disparity in judgement between Barack Obama and John McCain. Both succeeded.

Hands down Biden won. Sarah Palin did not answer the questions put to her. She reads her chat cards and then go back to the previous question while everyone has moved on. She called the General by his first name and can't even pronounce his name right. All of her answers are written down and memorized by her. This was not a debate, it was an expression of her views and positions. She did not challenge Biden once, not even once when he criticized McCain's record. Go home S.P

biden was fantastic, he won this debate by a wide margin. Palin did not make any mistakes, but it was obvious she was not speaking from her heart, but from the Republican playbook. Barack clearly has the more superior VP.

Biden won. Palin was not answering the questions that were asked. For instance when asked about bankruptcy, she responded talking about energy. If I hear we're the "mavericks" one more time I think I'm going to puke.

Senator Biden won the debate, but I wish he'd called Governor Palin on supporting Senator Obama up until she was named VP, and I wish he'd remarked that her selection as VP shocked everyone including her own parents!

Additionally, I would have liked to see Senator Biden talk about equal pay for women–that point wasn't discussed even once.

I was shocked to hear that McCain voted against domestic violence against women; though, Senator Biden should have mentioned how many times Senator McCain voted against veterans. Senator McCain might say he supports troops, but he sure doesn't help them when they return.

Is it just me, or is CNN having a hard time drubbing Gov. Palin. All this talk about the media treating her badly. I just don't see it. Except for one cable news channel, she seems to be given a lot of slack. Yes, she is getting some exposure from the comedians, but that is different than news.

We didn't have to wait until the end of this debate to realize Binden clearly won.

Why do I listen, CNN? I don't... Bye!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We already know what Fox News will say, Biden did horrible and Palin was a genious. Yeah right...

A very strong performance by Biden and quiteshaky by Palin. She was trying hard and would be better served if she could just be herself and didn't come across as so "canned." Incidentally, she kept referring to the U.S. Commander in Afghanistan as McClellan when it is Gen. McKiernan. Ironically, McClellan was one of our worst generals ever (from the Civil War).

Palin does well when she is coached. She was slammed by Biden tonight in this debate. He demolished her bridge to nowhere!!! The word maverick should be banned from use and stricken from the dictionary. Bided did what he needed to do tonight and that was clearly state his support for Obama while demonstrating that he clearly understands the role of the VP..... Nice job Joe! Palin tried, and did put on a decent show, but in my opinion, she is way out of her league and is not ready to play with the big boys...

Palin did an abyssmal job. The only thing she did tonight was help increase the sales of alcohol and Tylenol. This woman has no ideas of her own and cannot articulate the facts. She double-spoke the whole time and did not directly answer the questions. Oh and just like Bushie, she can't pronounce simple words like Nuclear (Nu-clee-arr) Iraq (Urrock) and Iran (Urronn). She recites McCain lies and has no clear plan of her own, or even to try to advise McCain on anything. Palin is McCain's lap dog, and that was clearly evident tonight.

Did she show up for the debate? She indirectly answered every question posed to her. Is that the person I want to take over if anything happened to McCain? I think not. I want someone in there who really knows what's going on. Not somone who has had half decent coaching for the last few days. She is a Washington outsider...but maybe too far outside which makes her clueless as to how things really work.

Hands down that goes to Joe Biden!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Angela- "Worldview???? Since when does Palin have one?"

Well, did'nt you know ..she can see Putin's head from her backyard

SENATOR BIDEN HAS THE STATURE OF A VICE PRESIDENT OR PRESIDENT, HE CLEARLY WON THIS ONE, AS AN EX-REPUBLICAN I AM AT A LOST FOR WORDS TO DESCRIBE PALIN'S PERFORMANCE. WHAT A SAD REPRESANTATIVE OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY

I thought Joe Biden gave better answers and didn't seem like a robot with someone else feeding her as Sara Palin did. Also, I did not hear her say what her achilles heal is?

Biden was more substance, she talked a lot about the things she has been trained to talk about, but didn't deliver the game changer that Mccain needs at this point.

Biden clearly won in my view.

BIDEN WITHOUT QUESTION!!!!

He drowned her in the facts and figures!!!

Palin did well. She just did not answer the questions. She stayed within her comfort zone only...and anybody knows a VP needs to venture onto unfamiliar territory from time to time. Based on what I saw, not sure she's up to that challenge.

I think that she held her own for the most part. Joe Biden won. This is obvious. He has more experience with the issues and that was clear during the exchange.

Palin won because she showed that she has a great working knowledge on issues that her interviews cast doubt on previous to the debate. Like Obama last week, she looked like she belonged and that won the debate for her.

I think this was Biden's debate. Palin didn't make any big mistakes but I didn't like all the sarcasm.

I dont know what peoples problems are with Gov. Palin. She did just as well as Biden did from my point of view. She made no major mistakes and she was able to drop a few bombs on him. She might not have "won" this debate but she did just as well as any other person would.

Who won?!!

The difference was very obvious....facts versus rhetoric, subtance versus slogans, experience vs naivette....

He won hands down...

After listening to this evenings debate I feel strongly that Govenor Palin is a strong person and could fill the shoes of VP and if needed take over as leader of this country if necessary. She is a woman, person & politician of change and will be a strong right hand to John Mc Cain if they win the ticket.

i think palin did ok, however she did seem lost on some foriegn issues points, but that was expected.

I agree Roland.

Palin definitely repaired her image tonight but the winner is Biden. I was impressed with his restraint and his knowledge.

Okay, who gave Sara Palin the right to come up with her own questions. Did they not explain what a debate meant during her study session? Debate means you listen to the question and argue your point and not to talk nonsense about the one thing you had the most talking points on, "energy"!

As an educated woman, tonight Palin made me want a sex change. She tried to repeat everything Chaney through at her in VP boot camp but the air headed beauty queen was shinning through! We cant have yet another 4 more years of the same otherwise we are doomed! Obama/Biden is our only hope!

I thought Biden simply commanded the debate. To me she didn't come as folksy but rather as condescending.

Biden was smart not to take the bait and attack her on petty thing. He kept firm to the topics and actually answered the questions. In comparison she seemed evasive and uncertain.

In some places she was a little clueless but I do believe that the DEBATE BOOT CAMP did her some good. However, the question still remains, "Do you trust her as your PRESIDENT of the United States of America?"

She did probably about as good as she can...which sadly isn't saying much. I am sure she is a lovely woman, but thinking of her as president terrifies me to no end. She rarely even answered the question given to her and diverted back to the same talking points. Ok, we get it that you are the governor of an energy rich state, but that isn't the be all and end all.

Her response on the vice president's powers in the Congress was especially scary.

Biden.......HANDS DOWN!!!!

Please, I am appauled at her behavior and demeanor. She thinks she is cute and funny, and I'm certain the folks who've lost their homes and jobs have nothing to laugh about. I'm sick that John McCain first of all would even run for President, but to play such a sick game with the well being and livelyhood of Americans is sick. If white women vote for Palin just because she's a women, shame on them. I think she's a disgrace to women black and white and I'm personally sick of the eye winking and head jerking.

They both won. Sarah redeemed herself after the horrible taste left in peoples' mouths by the Couric and Gibson interviews. Biden redeemed himself by not putting his foot in his mouth, being more genuine (if less aw-shucks), and by displaying a superior ability to talk about a wide range of issues.

She CANNOT become the president. How can Gwen allow her to not answer the question that was asked so she can pontificate about some other topic. Most likely, it's because she didn't know how to answer the question.

Yes, Biden WON.

Does the Vice President make appointments or does the President?

I love that Joe Biden was such a good sport and chuckled when Palin called him "Senator O'Biden" early in the debate. Did anyone else catch that?

As usual Mr Martin had his conclusion pre debate. Palin was constantly on Biden and he had no ground to formulate 'much' of a defense. She won this one hands down, get over it Martin, and face the facts on whom controlled who.

roland did it look like she had on a ear piece please let me know i don't think she did such a good job she had to keep looking at the paper not much straigt forward she never answer a question straigh

Biden won hands down...she was annoying at best. She looked like a robot at times. She kept dodging questions and seemed out of her league especially in reference to foreign policy.

BIDEN WON...
you can only hide behind a smile for so long, and talking points don't always cover every topic.

Palin didn't answer a single question all night. She's talking about the media filtering out her answers, and wanting people let to decide what to make of them...

Well why DON'T YOU GIVE AN ANSWER THEN!?

Biden did an admirable job of holding back, because everyone watching knew that he could have spent the debate just reading Palin a riot act.

Palin didn't commit any major mistakes...aside from never giving an answer, but Biden stood there and showed that he actually knew what he was talking about on each and every issue.

Joe Biden clearly won this debate. He was so beautiful, well spoken, and so knowledgeable. I am extremely impressed with his abilities.

Roland how do you give a shout out in a debate?

A bipartisan political system ensures only status quo. One side votes yes. One side votes no. This political system can be equated to a "PREVENT DEFENSE" in american football. It's wonderful when you are miles ahead with only minutes left in the game; a certainly victorious strategy. This, however, is no longer the scenario in which we live.

We are no longer miles ahead globally,and perhaps behind even (as the federal budget and a failing economy certainly exhibit). We need to switch strategy and plan more for progress rather than status quo.

Talk about no experience...look at Obama. What has he ever accomplished as a senator? NOTHING. He thinks Iran is a small country not even a serious threat...God help us all. He has spent half of his senate term running for president..who is the senator for Illinios? What a loser!!! Obama and Biden... I think I'm going to puke!

Although I am supporting Obama/Biden, I think her performance was better than expected. Biden was much stronger on the facts and on policy, that is probably lost on the majority of the public. The question comes down to who is connecting emotionally with swing voters.

I am convinced now more than ever that Palin was a huge mistake for McCain. I honestly held most of my judgement to hear what she would have to say. I was looking for her to sound more knowledgable on the issues than she has in the past 5 years and she clearly...clearly failed. It is absolutly disturbing that McCain would pick someone who has little to no knowledge about the issues that the new president will be faced with, she would be a heartbeat away from the Oval Office and that scares me to death!

Joe won this debate. She didn't fall on her face but she also didn't convince me she can be president. So I end this still not impressed with her.

I must say that I was very amazed that both VP representatives spoke eloquently and tried to keep with the pace of the questions that Gwen posed to each candidate. However I'm not impressed with Sarah Palin's inability to answer the darn questions? While she may have not stumbled on stage she seemed didn't swing my vote.
My compliments to John McCain's debate coaching over the last week...while I give her credit for being charming and spirited we need more from a VP than a beauty queen from an Alaskan town of 8000 that runs marathons. On the other hand Joe Biden was polished and stuck to the question points. I'm a registered Republican and right now my vote is leaning towards Obama/Biden.

Biden wins the debate!!! 65 – 35

She did not sound presidential at all. She sounded like she is talking to someone she ran into at the grocery store. She often did not answer the questions. She repeated her robotic, prewritten, rehearsed speech. She was reading for goodness sakes. And she could be president. Heaven help us all!

Roland,

Yes, she did her job. Didn't make any major mistakes. However she was not answering the questions directly. A lot of fillers, sidestepping and trying to be "cute".

Biden did his job as well. Not long winded, no major gaffes. I actually thought he was very good. Sharp, clear, articulate and answered every question head on. I am very impressed with him. Surprised he was not at the top of the ticket.

How can we complain about candidates who are smart and actually THINK, but praise someone who throws out one liners and short answers, and call that a regular American?

You work with Cafferty don't you?

On a serious note, most Americans I work with throw one liners. That being said I think they both did well and she had the advantage of not having a senate record to defend against her candidate.

Palin's statements were simply incoherent. I don't desire a folksy vice president. I want one who can think.

Just imagine what that debate would have been like if Palin was asked to respond to the tough questions first?

Palin is advoating on Obama's policies... whos team is she on?

Biden won all the way she jumped around the questions answering only the things she was comfortable with. Hello folks wars are different today than they were in McCains day....my dad fought in Korean war and has even stated that McCain doesnt seem to understand the policies of warfield in todays age....

Im a republican but my vote is going to Obama Biden..........

Roland,is that even a question??
Biden....Biden all the way..the point of a VP debate is to sell your president..and he did it !!!!
Palin just drilled herself into the abyss of ignorance and inability..

I think Joey the shark was almost flawless...but i need to check some of his facts that palin was calling him out on. Palin did a great job of deflecting but didnt really show a command of the counterattacks by Sen. Biden.

I'm completely flabbergasted by the Sarah Palin's inability to answer a question directly. How can she flat out redirect a question about the economy and turn it into a lackluster response about energy? I seriously hope that in the next presidential debate, Tom Brokaw exhibits some strength and forces the candidates to address the questions at hand.

Biden won the debate. Knowledgable, clear and on point. She was off point a few times and dodged a few questions. Her speaking style is very "jerky".

But, Palin did a better job than most would think. You can tell she did a good job cramming for this. I support Obama, so I also support the fact that McCain keeps her under wraps. When she's on, she could help McCain. When you keep her locked up, she stumbles. Let's hope they keep her locked up!

Biden won. Palin paled.

She came across to me as smarmy, condescending, demeaning and just seemed to not take any of this very seriously at all. She just acted as though this was a game!

I think that the moderator did a terrible job. She let Palin get away with not answering any questions directly.

Biden won clearly. Palin didn't answer questions and avoided issues. On the other hand, Biden was knowledgeable, comfortable and connected with people.

I thought Biden won. He did not dominate, but he won. She was to robotic. The format sucked. They never did ask each other questions.

Roland,

What are your colleagues talking about. Did John King really say that she did what she had to do? What is Andy talking about? David Gergen seriously... somebody up there needs to be honest and tell the truth - She did a terrible job. Were we watching the same thing?

Roland – I agree about raising the bar for this very important political position. So why is anyone taking a woman who barely finished her degree in Journalism (after six years) seriously? I mean if you look at the resumes of other world leaders... they aren't educationally challenged like Palin! I mean Ahmadinejad might be a crazy SOB, but he is a crazy SOB with a PhD! I think the role of Pres AND VP should require at least a Masters!

Yeah, I know Bush has a MBA...

The bar is high and the only one who can meet and perhaps exceed the bar is Joe Biden. He has given substantive details to his answers. He isn't just talking at 30,000 feet where the air is thin. Palin is in that thin air. Slogans and buzz words don't cut it.

Obama and Biden – now question!!!!

he did it. he did what so few thought he would be able to do as aggressive as he's proven to be. He attacked the McCain ticket he didn't attack Palin which we all knew women would be sensitive to. i am a woman........He won, he gave me plans, i have an idea of the ideals. she spoke well and didn't fall on her face as i thought she would. if i hear "maverick" one more time...and Joe only went after "maverick" once. Though her closing speech was moving I could have cried when they both denounced same sex marriage

Palin the clear winner of the debate. Biden looks older and much more tired than McCain – hardly a leader. The Obama-Biden rhetoric is beyond belief – what a joke.

Palin is a small fish in a big pond. She stated herself she doesn't know much about Washington. Why would you admit that? She tried but she is clearly not qualified for the VP job. Maybe she could try Maybeline, Avon or something, not runing a country!

Good Job Biden You're awesome!

She was just as confusing as trying to understand a Kennedy...John, Teddy.....

BIDEN wins big!

Biden won!

Gov. Palin did not answer the questions asked! She had her own agenda tonight and failed to deliver solid answers on the questions asked.

TO PALIN, AMERICA IS JOE SIX PACK AND HOCKEY MOMS. TO SENATORS OBAMA AND BIDEN AMERICA IS ALL OF US WHITE, BLACK HISPANIC ASIAN. WHAT A TERRIBLE IMAGE PALIN WOULD MAKE REPRESENTING AMERICA, AS SHE SAID HER AMERICA IS JOE SIX PACK AND HOCKEY MOMS, NOT VERY VICE PRESIDENTIAL OR PRESIDENTIAL

I think she over-did the down home stuff. I don't care much for her, I don't care for how she ran her state, and I don't think they're going to bring us any change at all.

I actually think Biden did better than Obama in the debate.

Is anybody counting how many "ALSO" is Mrs. Palin Saying!!! I just changing her name Mrs.Sarah ALSO Palin!!!!!

No question, Govt. Palin is in every way what Boulder Colorado and the USA is looking for.... Change.

God Bless Governor Palin.

Biden looked stressed at some points in the debate, and toward the end he got a little incoherent. Palin did fabulous, looked confident, and gave good answers. I'll have no problem voting for her and haven't from the start.

Pailn did not debate the issues. She appeared to not even know what her canidate stands for. If McCain died america would be in trouble.

Biden won this debate, hands down

Bait and switch....the media wanted us to belive Palin was a lame duck...i was impressed with her honesty. Biden stil controlled the tempo.

Palin definitely won!....... If she were running for American Idol – folksy style. Can't wait for Nov 4th to come and go.

It seems to me, that Gov. Palin, through naivety or something else, by not answering most of the questions is panding to the Republician base more than trying to win over independent and undecided voters. With all of the recent polling data, the Republician ticket should be trying to swing votes toward their ticket instead of panding to the loyal following. Of course, she did touch on a few populist issues such as regulation of Wall Street and funding education, but I doubt that those who are not decided on which ticket to support will be swayed to McCain-Palin.

This is the most fun I've had all year. What a hoot! Sarah you are providing us with wonderful comic relief. You are a total joke.

Did Gov. Palin answer a single question?

Can you ask David G. not to give credit to Sarah? Joe was dead on in this debate.

if there are "winners" and "losers" in this, I think Biden "won" just because of experience. But Palin held her own, and didn't look like a naive, backwoods person at all. She obviously isn't as experienced in world events as Biden, but she did stand up to him very well.

Oh my – she didn't know what "Achilles Heel" means – poor thing. No she is not now, or probably ever, Presidential material. AND I resent her not including me in America – I am not now nor ever will be a "soccer mom" – when is she going to talk to me about my needs. I am a mother – but I don't fall into the "SM" category.

Palin has a way about her of being extremely loquacious while saying nothing of substance. If you ask me, she is the archetype of the media's characterization of Joe Biden. Biden on the other hand continued to spit out firm statements while keeping his answers succinct.

Biden won hands down she could not or would not answer the questions.

Why does Gov. Palin's husband never hold their baby? Other than one photo op I've never seen him step in to handle his family. There is always a nanny or a younger daughter. Does Gov. Palin's husband have the same "family values" as Gov Palin herself?

I call this one for Joe Biden, easily. Running the country is not a backyard barbecue, Palin needs to take her brood and go home.

Does she really know what she said or was she just repeating everything they wrote down for her?

BIDEN WON ABSOLUTELY!

Joe Biden won, definitely! She was smarmy and annoying, not to mention she tried to sidestep too many questions, and it was obvious she was reading from a script.

My husband said Palin is doing better. I said let's vote for her to be the president directly instead of waiting for "heart bit away" – Because older men like to watch younger woman, younger men like to be with pretty woman. As to the women, we like to have a woman president no matter if she is quality or not.

Biden's closing speech was inspiring. Absolutely inspiring. He truly gets it.

BIDEN hands down won!!!

Are you for real???? Sarah Palin came out reading what someone else wrote for her but answering questions for real........ CAN"T DO IT!! This should be an insult to women if you are just voting for her just because she is a woman, and her number 2 in the country, thats scary and dangerous!!!

absolutely dis like cheney, he has hurt america as a whole, bush/cheney has done this country a disservice! come on ppl!

The only "danger" by Dick Cheney was when he went hunting!

she is a joke

"I like the tough questions...." Duh, she didn't answer them!

When Palin said John McCain knows how to win wars, was she referring to Vietnam? Do we really consider Vietnam a victory?

I am completely in disbelief that Gov Palin made that comment about Sen Biden's wife being a teacher, "Her reward is in heaven". That was so rude, insulting, and condescending. That's what continues to turn me off about her. It's one thing to be quick and clever with responses, but this whole inappropriate and defensive tactic that she uses is uncalled for.

She needs to just answer the questions asked of her and quit being so disrespectful.

P.S. Mr. Martin, I so admire your work. I always look forward to your commentaries. You keep it real!!!

So, folks, who won?

Palin remained folksy, drove home the issue of tax cuts and the maverick image of McCain.

Biden? STRONG.

She did her job, didn't make major mistakes, but he clearly had a strong command of the facts and stayed on the attack against McCain.

Biden won this debate. It was very clear.

This debate wasn't even close. Palin was way out of her league. Biden shows his experience. Eventhough I am a McCain supporter I think he picked the wrong V.P. I disagree with Obama's polices but I think they just wrapped up a victory in November.

She surprised me

To Kris:

No, it isn't. In the event of a tie, the election gets thrown into the U.S. House of Representative, which means Obama becomes President.

That said, the VP can break ties in the Senate. In fact, that's the only Constitutional responsibility that the VP has (aside from waiting for the President to leave office prematurely).

Palin used her womanly "wiles" – the winking of the eye, the smacking of the lips, the head movements and "attitude", etc.

If she answers the questions half as much as she's doing that, she'd be "darn" good!

She loves the word "darn".

I have watched this debate very carefully. As a woman, I am particularly interested in what happens here. As an American, I can be interested in what happens to my gender, but I will vote according to my judgment.

There is no doubt in my mind that the choice of Governor Palin was cynical. That was proven tonight. The idea that we as women would vote for an unqualified woman just because she shared our experiences is ludicrous. Really. We do have a brain, you know.

I had hoped she would do better because I wanted to be proud of her.

But she didn't. Pat answers. Soundbites. No substance.

Folks, we as women aren't afraid of competing and being vetted just as our opponents are. So don't send to us someone who is talented, but not qualified and expect us to vote without our brains.

I've decided to vote for Obama and Biden this time around. I might have gone the other way–but I'm irritated by the low bar for me as a voter. I'm better than that.

Elect the one that knows how to pronounce Nuclear...it is not NUCULAR!!! Reminds me of Bush.

Is this all a bad dream? She is not qualified. She will never be qualified. No matter how much coaching. My goodness I felt like I was watching a high school debate team and she was put there as a joke. She can't even answer a question. She speaks but doesn't have anything to say. How sad. This country is in trouble and she is NOT the answer. One would have to be insane to vote from McCain-Palin. God help us.
Oh and I am a Hillary supporter and now a supporter of Obama. Oh and Sarah, you are NO Hillary.

TKO Goes to JOE!!

Palin is out of her league!

It's not her fault though...she is obviously a "TOKEN" for the Republican ticket to try to get Hilliary supporters votes. It's NOT working, McCain!

As a woman, I found this tactic (selection of Palin for V.P. at this stage of her career) appalling, and Sarah should step down, go back to Alaska, run for Congress, work her way up, learn the ropes so to speak, gain the support through her own merits, then come back in 4 years, and maybe I'd vote for her.

Biden is very on point. He has me motivated and fired up!!

I find it interesting that so many of "us" who know 10% of what these candidates know and have accomplished 10% of what they have are so critical. Of course Palin's answers are more general than Biden's; he's lived through the events that she's been cramming to learn more about for a month. (Sort of like Obama has to "learn" about events that McCain lived through and therefore typically knows more about.)

wow–she needs to quit tomorrow,

Wow! Joe Biden is great.

I thought she was going to end with the Pledge of Allegiance. It would have fit so well...God help her

I'm a solid Obama/Biden supporter, but my heart does go out to Palin. Where was the RNC when this choice was made?

I am so glad that she is shutting up. Did she just say that she "enjoyed answering questions"? Huh? I don't recall her answering a question this whole time, however I do recall her reading a script. I want to giver her credit for being intelligent but then it would be charity.

Roland 'Obama Supporter' Martin would spin that Biden and Obama won the debate if they came out naked and drooling! Please, give me a break from the "unbiased" CNN.

If the ticket were Biden/Obama, I'd vote for it. I just don't have faith in Obama.

This is crazy! Am i the only one who's wondering how she got elected as gov?

Final thoughts? Winner?

She'd make a great Fox news anchor–not a VP of the United States!

I find it interesting how everyone says Palin is ignoring the questions. When do politicians ever answer the question? NEVER! If you are going to make a criticism, make a fair one.

OMG! Did she just that she enjoyed answering the questions! She didn;t even answer one question fully! In the end, I felt like I was on a campaign trail than at a debate

Is this dodgeball or a debate?

Roland,

This is not even close. Sen. Biden is not even debating with an ounce of difficulty here. Gov. Palin is sinking her own ship in this debate. Gov. Palin responses are almost identical to those of Sen. McCain from the debate this past Friday. The answers are canned and appear rehearsed. Gov. Palin shifts from tough questions to easier topics. The governor has repeated several answers for different questions. Finally, both Sen. McCain and Gov. Palin do not provide specifics as to exactly what they would do if, and hopefully not, elected.

P.S. Gov. Palin, please, please, stop attempting to compare the issues of the country to those of Alaska. I love Alaska. I have visited Alaska a couple of times. But, Alaska is 1 of 50 states that make up this beautiful nation. If we compare overall governing to 1 state then we are not consdering the remaining 49 states.

can u tell me if palin gave any sensible answer?is that the direction macain want to take this country that we love most?

i get it Alaska runs itself,the cost of energy goes into the pockets of the citizens of Alaska ,all 200,000, over the largest state in the union, What i do get is Sarah Palin is a beautiful women that can read her lines,folks in hollywood missed a potential star.the folks in Alaska should be ashamed of themselves ,she should have been Miss Alaska,then i would not have to put up with her spin,her lack of knowledge of real world issues and events. God love this women she has taken beauty and turned it into a political platform.SHAME ON THE REPUBLICANS ,WE ARE NOT GOING TO VOTE WITH OUR LITTLE HEAD.

If I hear about her diverse family one more time!!!!

Where did they find her at? I am waiting for her to slap her knee and yell "hot diggidy dog". She's like some character off of the Andy Griffith show. I can't believe the Republicans considered her a viable candidate! It's so apparent she was never vetted.

You have gotta be kidding me! Did she just say "There you go Joe! Say it ain't so?" Again, trying to be cute. This is not a beauty pageant. This is about our country and God forbid McCain leaves us and we have this to represent our country. This would be worse than "Legally Blonde!" She seems like she would be great at a cocktail party, but not in the Oval Office or number 2 in our nation. Be real and ask yourself before you vote, Do you want the same in McCain that you have with Bush and Palin talking about "Change" when the only change she represents is a surprise in McCain's judgement! She refers to her experience as a Mayor and Govenor, her city is equivilent to a small camp ground and Govenor of a National Wildlife refuge. Face reality – this is not the Anna Nicole and The Billionaire Show. My Country is more important than that!

Reform!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Didn't she say she wanted to reform Washington and get rid of the lobbyist and fat cats in Washington. No more pork? Didn't McCain vote for the bailout last night with the added 150B pork.

She needs to go back to Alaska and take McCain with her.

When will Governor Palin answer a question fully? I have watched the whole thing and she has not answered the questions. She is not prepared to discuss the damage our current government has inflicted on the public. Is this what American wants in a vice president?

I think if elected, Palin might try to have the White House moved to Alaska.

Worldview???? Since when does Palin have one?

Shes so sarcastic , its very distastful and obvious.

She just TOTALLY avoided the question about the Constitutional powers of the Vice President...is the Consitution another thing she hasn't read?

Palin is george bush is a skirt.

she rambles and makes no sense

So is it true that if this ends in a tie that Obama would get it because of the congress/democrat and Governor Palin would be the VP because the VP who is Chenny would have the deciding vote and that would be Palin.. You would have Obama/Palin

This is an embarrasment no matter if you are Democrat, Republican, Independant or an alien! McCain is THROUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Since when did Alaska become the heartland of America?

Why didn't Biden throw Palin under the bus? She described "Insider Politics" as "being for something before being against it?? HELLO! Wasn't she for the bridge to nowhere before she said "thanks but no thanks". Didn't she just contradict herself?

"4 More Years Of The Same". That is soooo true. She even says Nuclear like Bush "NUCULAR"

I'm amazed the way Gov. Palin exerts so much energy to deflecting the questions. Is this what we can look forward to in their administration? Does she really believe that the VP being used to force feed congress the president's agenda is good for the country and a "new" way of leadership? This is troubling to say the least to have another administration that has no respect for the consitution or the ability of the American people to be dealt with openly.

Roland:

Gov. Palin makes me nervous, she is in agreement with Dick Cheney!

OMG!! She is driving me crazy...!! What in the world is she talking about.??!! She is a ding-bat!! Big-ups to Joe Biden. I know he wants to say how dumb she is, but he is really keeping his cool..!! I am definitely watching SNL this weekend.!!

Roland, you are doing a great job. You have just picked-up a new fan!! Will visit your site more often from now on!!

Obama-Biden '08

Washington outsider. Business owner, mom. These are excellent qualifications.

Can we please get "Nuculer" removed from the GOP dictionary and add "Nuclear"?

It seems like she is just running down the bullet points she was trained to talk about. This is ridiculous!!!

I agree, Saturday night Live will be great this week!!! Heck it will be great until November 5th then they wont have any more material on her since she will be on her wya back to Alaska! LOL

wow...she didnt answer the achilles heel question

Is Biden going to note that both of her businesses failed?

"gumby October 2nd, 2008 9:51 pm ET

i was a fence sitter, but not no more!!! As much as I wanted ditzy and McCain to win— this fence sitter is off the fence! I can't believe I'm gonna vote DEM but this has done it!! thank you !!"

no sir.....thank YOU!

Why is her experience as a governor under fire?

How many presidents have been former governor's?
Including Clinton and Reagan......

The point is moot

Wow. Biden for President.

She is so lame, in her own words.

my 12 yr old wants to know if that extra credit still counts even if you don't vote for her?!?!

The Palin pick as VP will not only contribute to McCain's ultimate loss, but will, in my opinion, have long lasting impact on conservatism. Conservatism is an intellectually driven philosphy. Sarah Palin has turned it into a non-sensical set of one liners.

No handicaps allowed. These two are running for vp and to be able to talk with heads of states. If they can't make their clear to the american public then they need to go home and sit down.

Gov. Palin is great at regurgitating the party lines and slogans, but we still don't hear any specifics! I don't understand what the Reps are doing, they are smarter than this; so I thought. I like Palin, but this debate isn't even close, Biden is winning (will win) hands down.

Well, not sure which is worse Sarah Palin's inexperience as VP or Barack Obama's inexperience as President. YOU PICK!!!!

I just texted my best friend the same thing! AND...can you say nuclear, not nuculer?

do you think men and women don't like Vice President Dick Cheney?

Our dial-ups shot straight up when Biden said that he's the most dangerous vice president in history.

I have been watching this debate and am still baffled that Palin was picked as VP. After watching this debate, it is clear to me that Obama-Biden is the strongest ticket. Also, I've been watching the women reacting, they respond better to Biden.... Sorry, McCain!

Biden is not smart...........

with all due respect to sara palin, honestly you can't compare the 2. I think Biden is even good enough to be the president.

There she goes again. The moderator ask about Cheney's interpretation about the duties of the VP...and she off an running on...what exactly...who knows.

Dang..BIden knows his stuff about the role of VP

Palin just agreed with Dick Cheney and I think that is a huge mistake

Biden won overall, but compared to expectations Palin certainly held her own much better than I and most anticipated.

roland please, for the love of god, call her out when this is over!! if i could call in i'd do it lol. she is avoiding a lot of these answers, the gay marriage notion that she wouldn't stand in the way of civil unions or whatever, the nuclear stuff, omg roland please!

From this debate it seems that Sarah thinks that by being unnaturally jovial she can win debates.
And it is a little scary that she wants more power vis a vis Biden's thought that BarACK wanted some one with independent judgement..It seems that she is pointing to a Palin-McCAIN tIcket than the other(primary role of VP always to support Prez..not more powers!!!) read your constitution,Sarah..oops sorry...i dont think she even knows the name of current journals..

Roland how do you feel about Palin making many references to when she was mayor or govenor? I say mayor is a far cry from VP or President. I dont want my mayor considering to run the country. She is out of her league!

I am enjoying listening to Biden cause he answers the questions clearly and I understand his position. She skirts the issue and leans on a lot of sound bytes and flubbing or changing the subject when it wasn't one of her prep questions. This is not Alaska. This is the Big Time and she can't take her game up to the national level. I guess she is best with "Joe 6-pack" as she has already informed us is her base.

Oh My God, she winked at her dad in the audience. She said that the 3rd graders at a particular elementary school would get extra credit for watching tonight's debate. They are in bed, Governor, because they have school on tomorrow. In regard to her comments on education, maybe we need to readmit and reeducate her.

that was a specific question that really deserved a specific answer and one that is much better than the gibberish that palin rattled off. bidens answer was right on!

Did she just give a shout out to 3rd graders?? RIDICULOUS!! She said "John McCain has tapped me" "work with ya?" who talks like that??

I think she spends too much time with those 3rd graders she shouts out to.

I would like her to start answering the questions put to her and stop being EVASIVE. I can't believe she's getting points for non answers. Am i right or am i wrong?

I don't know why I come to CNN for unbiased info. This board and Martin are so far to the left they can't see past their noses. You would think the Democrats would learn from Clinton who lowered taxes and spending. Instead they want to vote for a man who wants to raise taxes and at the same time raise spending. The government now runs insurance (AIG) and banking (Freddy and Fannie) what is next. SOCIALISM

This woman is making me ill! I respect Joe for keeping his cool. He's a better person than i am!

I don't know if its just me but she is reading them cards a whole lot. I know in debates you supposed to write notes to respond appropriately to the subject but she don't seem to be writing... she seems to be reading.

If you expected Palin to have some ups and downs because she's new to the big stage and not a seasoned debater, that is what you're getting. If you expected Biden to be more savvy than Palin, that is what you're going.
Biden definitely warmed up well. This actually reminds me a little bit of McCain-Obama debate, only the opposite roles. When McCain and Biden get time to speak on what they know well, they come across as knowledgeable and authoritative, based on experience.

I was waiting for this debate to decide which way I would vote, and I had not heard either Palin or Biden talk live yet, but the gap between how confident and experienced Biden sounds versus how clueless and inexperienced Palin sounds has sealed the deal.

Biden is doing better in this debate than Obama did in last week's debate.

I wish Gov Palin would answer a question....just one.
She is regurgitating rehearsed key talking points.

Roland,

WHY is Gov. Palin consistently referring Sen. Obama as Barack Obama or Barack? I did not know they were on first name basis.....

I agree. With enough preparation I can get up there and regurgitate what has been pounded in my head day and night over the last few days.

Did she just give a shout ou?!?!

I cannot believe she is allowed to speak at this level.I mean this is serious business and she's cracking jokes. Lot's innuendos too, should be great on the comedy sites tomorrow.

She is definitely out of her league here. Joe Biden has his facts straight and knows what he's talking about. Something that is bothering me is that her answers sound so scripted, and based on past interviews where she's shown that she really isn't that knowledgeable about government, she doesn't sound sincere here tonight. We've seen the real Sarah Palin previously, and cramming for this debate makes her look fake. GAWD I hope they don't win. If so, we're moving to Canada.

Look Mrs. Palin, we know your resume. Please try to answer the questions!

What is this claim that Barack Obama wants to talk to dictators "without preconditions"?

I've never heard Joe Biden but he is extremely impressive with his depth and facts and lack of slogans.

Maybe she should have her family of school teachers teach her how to properly speak English, including pronouncing "N-U-C-L-E-A-R" and not saying "want ya."

It is really shameful that John McCain has put Governor Palin in such humility. Her contradictory demeanor is nothing short of sheer ignorance on both national and international issues. As Ronald Reagan would say, "There you [Gov. Palin] go again!"

Palin's sarcasim and the smirk on her face is killing me!!!!

Hello. I could do what Palin is doing. I can learn a script, wink at the camera, and say "ya" at the end of every sentence. She's probably a great local politician. She's probably great for her state and may do a great job there but she has no business running a country has huge, important and on the world stage as the U.S. This is extremely scary and McCain and the republicans should be ashamed of themselves for being so self serving. They're putting country last and at jeopardy in the world arena. Keep her as a local politician and let her do her best and winking there.

I wonder what John McCain is thinking right about now?

Roland, What's with your scoring? Is your button stuck like on SNL Jeopardy?

I'm so sick of her talking like a hick. This is not a time to be cute, this is not a time to pander to stereotype. This is so obviously contrived. like the Palin people told her to play to the Saturday night live image. I almost can't watch this anymore, this is sickening.

She just read an answer to a question..I thought they didnt get the answers in advance???

I have to question McCain's choice of running mates, as a woman I am offended by the fact that McCain thinks we are so shallow that we would vote for him because he choose a woman, particularly this woman. She is showing us that she is an atomoton unable to speak her own mind but able to regurgatate what has been feed to her.

She is condescending, too cutesy (she is running for VP, for god's sake !), sarcastic and way out of her league ! "Drill, baby, drill" ! Sheesh !

Is it me or does Palin seems more like a news reporter than a Vice President; just watch her. It seems as though she is just trying a bit too hard to win the debate, but it's not working. Palin is not right; she really thinks this is a joke and smiling entirely too much.

I tuned out the first question; they never did answer it... I just hear ads being spewed out.

I only heard one or two clear answers to the questions. The rest is all canned crap.

What a waste of time and money.

Will She ever answer a question?

Palin answers are nothing more than slogans! How about a answer of substance!! That scathing sarcasm and insulting is old!

Tina Fey would do a better job at this debate than Sarah Palin has. I agree with you, Roland, there will be alot of material for Tina Fey on SNL this week. Gotta stay up late Saturday night and watch it! Wouldn't miss it for the world!

You have got to be kidding me! Are we really listening to someone that is hoping to lead this country out of the mess it is in, with those country bumpkin responses!!! This seems like more of a joke or a highschool debate. Palin for VP, God help this country if McCain wins. Palin is the best show at his lack in judgement!

Did she just say she wants more power for the VP through the Constitution?

Wow.

Sarah Palin = Epic FAIL.

Where's my Marvin Gaye song.........WHAT'S GOING ON.....

Kris–are you watching the same debate that I'm watching ????

I honestly can say that She NEVER answered a question, but spent time trying to "advertise" herself. Joe Biden has done what was asked of him, and debated very well using facts, and never saying anything "empty" and not backing it up with a fact, or with a statement for that matter.

It's interesting that Governor Palin is saying that she would be working with special needs, yet her immediate response only moments earlier suggested that people didn't understand her "lame" attempt at a joke. Doesn't lame originate in reference to individuals with disabilities?

She may be the Anti-Cheney

talking about removing "No Child Left Behind" will get the teachers union- and especially my mom, I need to hear the canidates talk about this more

Well, I guess we know who's gonna be president!!
OBAMA/Biden

This Chick is dumb! Ive read all these post, and let's face it America, McCain/Palin are way out of tact with rest of the world. NOW WE KNOW THERE'S TIME FOR CHANGE!!
OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!

While neither canidate is perfect .... you can tell Biden has it together and Palin is trying to remember what she is suppose to say... no independent thought in her head

Biden's dentures are falling out. She is pointing out his inconsistent record. Those of you who think Biden is winning sure are out of touch with reality.

Palin is seriously floundering. She needs to answer the questions. Wait did she just make fun of Biden's age?

I watched the pre-debate on how each VP should behave. Meanwhile we are heading towards our worst crisis this generation of American's have ever experienced. Believe me within the next year the political debate will not be on the frontline. I think it is a huge failure on both sides. We are nearly bank robbed! Why does the media, politicians,
Wall Street think so called "Main Street" are not very smart!

Enough is enough, this is litterally like watching my mother on the stage debating, and my mother has no business running for Vice President. You can totally tell when she is being herself, and when she is just reading talking points they gave her to read. America wake up, this is ridiculous. She is not even close to being qualified to be running for VP. I never thought I would say someone is more clueless than George W. Bush, but I think I found someone!

now i am really annoyed palins answers on education, explain it to me, why are we fighting to set up and fund schools in iraq while we are not supporting our own. she just stated that she supports our schools and wants to raise standards, i ask how can we do that with out leaving children behind as the no child left behind act has done. why are we educationing the enemy while leaving our own children lost in the system?

Roland, I am a future teacher and I really don't like the NCLB. What have you heard from the Obama/Biden campaign about fixing this issue?

Palin to the moderator: "I'm not gonna answer your question, but I will talk to America about myself real quick." I paraphrase but it's exactly what she said.

Who says that to a moderator in a DEBATE?!?! Does she know where she's at?

Palin often likes to relate things to what she defines as the "hockey mom" or "6 pack Joe" I dont find her relatable at all! She has done well at not directly answering questions. What I do find intresting and give her credit for is making consistent attempts to alleniate her running mate from the current office holder. When I think McCain/Palin I do think Bush/Cheney my pockets cant afford another 4 years of the same...

please save me from having a vice president that is so full of "cutesy" remarks and phrases. How about some intellect in our leaders for a change!

Roland I love your show thanks for keeping it real I hate the spin on the other networks I have a question for you. When this is all spun and done with in the next week or so will this debate have any affect on the polls ?

Wow, she's off the chain. She is definitely showing her ignorance.

She is clueless. Take away those cue cards and she would be clueless.

She's painful to watch.

Can someone please tell the republican party, especially Palin and Bush, how the word Nuclear is spelled and pronounced?

if she says MAVERICK one more time I am going to pull my hair out

YES A LOT.....As a Political Science major I am shocked that she does not know this basic information. Now she is saying that John McCain is telling her she will head up his energy policies?????? So what, gos is going to be like $8 dollars instead of $4 now?

Palin actually told Biden that he is looking in the past too much, that it's time for 'change' with McCain-Palin.

Tina Fey has got about a months worth of skit material from Palin tonight.

Did you notice she mis-pronounces nuclear and Iran – Just like George Bush

Did she just wink?

And no she didn't say Joe Biden's joke was lame and no she didn't say a shout out to the 3rd graders watching. This is a debate!

I am glad this is her last debate because she only wants to answer what she has written in front of her.

Oh, Joy! Another VP in charge of our energy plan. Just the change we need after the last 8 years.

I am shocked by the level of ignorance in our society. I cannot believe anyone in their right mind would want Palin to be in the Whitehouse other than on a field trip with her grandchildren. She is a hot head and arrogant and tries to win people over with a fake sense of family. She finally answered a question – 1hour 14 minutes in the debate.

Palin keeps winking at me through the Internet... I think she likes me.

As a woman, I am insulted that she is on my television talking with that cutesy, overly sweet tone. It's fine if you're meeting kids on the campaign trail. But Gov Palin could very well be vice president of the United States! The little 'gold star for everybody watching' is not cute and it is not addressing the questions given to her. I cannot condone this in a debate nor do I think her extremely rude dig about the attempt a joke just now.

Palin: Rehearsed, robotic

As a foreigner (I'm Irish), it seems upsetting that a candidte for the second most powerful position in the world could be so below the performace of Sen. Biden. He is very confident and knowledgable about what is going on the world and even just his over all deminour.

Gov. Palin is making such a big deal out 'talking to the American people' but it is obvious that she is overly rehersed abd reading from a script. On the other hand Biden is bringing everything back to the people by reminding the audience who he and where he comes from. When Palin tries to do the same thing she just seems condesending.

Is it me, or is she reading from something> She keeps looking down, especially when it comes to foreign policy.

Paul Henderson – Are you watching the same debate that I'm watching? Sarah Palin only has the brain of a notecard!!!!

Thats how you win a debate. Put down the moderator!

Will someone ask Palin what a maverick is – she uses the phrase whenever she doesn't have an answer.

Is someone sending her answers? She looks down alot as if she is reading the answer.

Bar....forget the bar. I'd be happy if they answered the questions that Gwen is asking!!!

Fellow Americans . please consider your future , you cannot truly have Sarah Palin at the head of the government.
Do you expect her to be ABLE to make a decision ,
energy of fluff

3 things that should never be said in a Vice Presidential Debate:

1.) Doggonit
2.) Joe Six Pack
3.) Darn Right

Winner by TKO Joe Biden

You are so right Roland...she is downright silly! I guess some people find her "cute" but cute doesn't work for me.... I dislike her more than I did before and I didn't think that was possible.

Yes she is way out of her league and giving shout outs to her family is she for real?

That's it...regardless of being a staunch Republican who has campaigned for Bush in his last two elections, I cannot watch this farce of a VP nominee potentially become the number 2 leader of the US and the free world.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08!

what is she talking about. this is just a slogan dump

Does she stop diverting the topic and start answering issues directly atleast once.

What the heck did she just say the VP does? Could I see that again?

Palin has lost me. Sounds like a rehearsed speech.

Palin talks a lot, but says nothing.

I love JOE BIDEN! Obama made the best decision ever in choosing him. He answers he questions he's asked, which are questions we NEED the answers to. I think Sarah Palen would be doing so much better if she'd just answer the questions asked rather than giving what seem to be talking points from her campaign speeches. It's getting frustrating at this point.

Did any of you notice that Palin did not answer question about Pakistan?

This isnt a debate. This is a joke. Biden is the man, Palin, "go sit down"

did she really say that

"say it ain't so joe"...is this the beverly hillbillies?

It is so refreshing to have a real statesman in this debate. She ramps up, golly gees, blesses us, says its not so, Joe................what a maverick. May she have no authority over me – ever.

I'm SOO NOT a Palin fan, but she does get off a good one now and then...like telling Biden he was looking back....he was the one who earlier said you shouldn't look back...that was silly to say...I can't imagine any debate not talking about the past....

She's trying way to hard to be "down home". And I'm SO sick of hearing them call themselves Mavericks.

Roland,

As they talk about taking care of fractious areas around the world, I'm wondering what your thoughts are on "tending to our own biscuits here at home before trying to teach others how to cook their biscuits". My point being, I just don't understand how we can effectively deal with global events, tragedies, military conflicts, etcetera if we are unable to take care of our own with respects to the economy, health care, energy, etcetera?

Her answers offer zero substance while Biden provides facts and figures. Biden looks like he wants to scream out, "Would you just answer a single question and stay on point!"

She keeps talking but never says anything. Her education spill, she said everything except what the McCain plan is.

Can Palin answer a question w/o looking down at her notes? Or actually answer the question, instead of moving it to Alaska's energy contribution.

It is painful to watch Palin exposed for the inexperienced person she is. Joe Biden is far and away much more experienced and refined. Palin is condescending, arrogant–she has clearly memorized everything she is saying. GO JOE!

Paul Henderson. Are you watching the same debate to be saying he is not answering the questions. Palin has answered 4 questions directly. I have been counting!!!

Im still waiting for Palin to answer the 1st question and it is 10:13pm

For gods sake, someone please shut up those pre-rehearsed slogans from that only partially literate candidate. And oh yeah, his name is Gen. McKeirnan, not McCleland.

And finally, exactly what debate is Ed Rollins watching?

Sarah Palin may be the only person in America who believes that George W. Bush is a wimp. My expectation is that she doesn’t represent 4 more years of his failed policies, she would move us so much farther to the right, that we might just fall off the edge of her flat earth, which is not warming due to human activity or the fossil fuel economy, but was created in 7 days; after Alaska seceded from the Union; abortion was outlawed; everyone abstained from sex, but still gets pregnant; Dwight Eisenhower was a founding father; Jesus had no actual responsibilities; Hillary supporters voted McCain/Palin and the polar bear lived happily ever after.

Did she just say "Say it Ain't So Joe" and then turned around and spoke about how we need education, and use the term "ramp it up". Education clearly isn't her friend.

I don't think the American people can "stomach" any more of Palin's so obviously scripted "down to earth" comments. How can anyone believe that she is genuine (and not scripted I might ad) if she can't even pull off her intended "casual" remarks about being a "Washington outsider" when it is so obvious she is trying to find any opportunity to insert her carefully scripted buzz words like "maverick", "reform", and "outsider"? Scripted answers are worthless when they are not accurately applied. Please, Palin, answer the questions asked of you, if you have any ounce of a brain, and lay off your condescension (if Biden wasn't trying to avoid being pinned for sexism by refuting any of your accomplishments and beliefs, he would rip your 'non-sensical', often grammatically incorrect arguments to shreds along with your feigned experience. Palin's lack of experience is transparent and by the way Gov., the word is pronounced "nuc-lee-ar", not "nuc-u-lar". Looks like we have the female version of George W. Bush.

She's totally trying to be the "Washington Outsider" here! She wants steal Obama's image – young, trendy, and now "new to washington?" She just messed up...Being an outsider in this country isn't a positive thing. Biden is clearly the more qualified one to run the country if need be. Palin isn't articulate about anything except the oil that Alaska has...I wonder why that's the case...

wow...she is makes no sense when talking about "no child left behind."

that is what i am talking about – she is normal and talks normal – darn joe there you go again

Sarah needs to answer the questions as posed to her. And I am frankly quite suprised that she quoted McCain word for word from his interview with CBS News regarding Obama's nievete as they said

Go,Biden! take her down and her ignorance..she is air headed mumbler....i am almost ashamed to be a woman! but then there is Hilary & Gwen..jeez thank god for some of us with brains....
I want an intelligent /intellectual president & VP..not an air headed bimbo....
Roland,Palin is so full of it and i hope the world sees her ignorance & arrogance.and you know what,she is so ill equipped to handle any position,let along VP..

OMG! Is she for real! Let's try to be professional. She is trying to get by with being cute. She talks about looking to the future, but she can't do it!

Palin can't answer a question she is just giving rhetoric and apple pie nonsense but not making any points.

I honestly hoped by sitting down tonight that I could better understand the bumbling woman who is currently running for the second highest office in the nation.

I keep hearing "Team of Mavericks" and I don't see that, at all.

I'm an insurance sales rep and office manager, and I think I could hold my ground with Joe Biden better than Sarah Palin.

What I'm not understanding is how this tracker of uncommitted voters.

And, as far as "pointing backwards" don't we need to know our history so we don't make the same mistakes? Obviously, some of the largest mistakes of our country have been made in the past eight years.

"Say it ain't so Joe?" Come on Sarah... She's trying to push him to "gaff".

Please please please make sure this woman does not make it into the White HOuse – she is clueless and her Wasilla homespun act is not only ridiculous it's an affront to the American people who are facing serious issues. I for one want to be represented by an educated leader not a moron

It is obvious that Sarah Palin is not ready to handle the vice-president nor possible president. Ms. Palin rambles and goes away from the questions asked of her tonight. She seems to be promoting herself and what she fills as accomplishments while mayor and governor in Alaska rather than the issues the McCain is promoting to be president elected with her as vice-president. She didn't even take heed from Biden as he referred to Obama on all issues. Ms. Palin puts her foot in her mouth everytime she speaks.....

Roland..

Game, Set, Match...it's over. She is out of her league, and shame on Senator McCain for putting this woman out there like that, I do believe she is a sincere person but she if far from ready.

Where is she going with this education thing?

I usually don't watch SNL but I will be tuning in to watch Tina Fey....yes she has a lot of new material.

the mavericks thing makes me sick. that is all

-andrew

She should have called in sick....

this is horrible!!!!!

Joe is just running away with it!!!!!

I typically support the Republican ticket. Philosophically I'm more aligned with that ticket. Despite that I cringe every time I hear Sarah Palin speak. The sound bites and simplicity of her positions (and often disjointed) is contrary to my intellectual conservative values. Turn out the lights...the parties over.

She has been trained and prep very well. I still don't think it's her time. America please wake-up! Do the leaders really care about this country or are we just concern about race, gender and indiviual parties. We are dying and here...

Besides demonstrating her ability to mutilate the English language, Governor Palin is clearly proven that she is way out of her league. I can truly see the difference between an experienced leader and a person being used as a political tool. I pray that America can see through the façade.

Pulling out the cutesy thing now when you can't handle it Huh sarah

So joe...???

I really believe that Biden is making the valid points and Palin is avoiding what she cannot answer because she knows it is not what we want to hear. The wealthy will be taxed and the avg. american will not who can disagree with that?

u r so right, palin makes it so easy!

Roland, Roland, Roland

I hope you guys at CNN don't allow this to go by without pointing out that the Gov probably answered 2 questions all night. I'm independent but I think this ticket is dangerous.

She isn't answering the question.... I;m getting tired of this. If I hadn't made up my mind, she's making it for me.

Biden is a better debater than Palin, Obama, or McCain, and has clearly won this debate hands-down. Palin is a disaster. She doesn't answer the questions. She talks about what she wants to talk about, regardless of what the issue is.

I have been uncommitted until tonight. It is clear that Joe Biden is ready to take over as the next President of the United States and Governor Palin is just not there yet. Our country is facing some serious issues internationally and nationally and I just feel Governor Palin is reciting rhetoric and her experience of living this issue is not resonating with me. We need experience and with the age of John McCain and her lack of experience just do not add up at this time.

I will be voting for the Obama ticket.

She just isn't trust worthy. I am afraid what this country will look like if she is the vice president.

roland, she has done ok to this point, but in reality has she said anything other than alaska. i thought biden landed some close to knockouts on foreign policy and mccains record.

She keeps mentioning " I am not used to the way washington operates!!!"?!

we know that...but, if she keeps reiterating the same words like "team of mavericks" " straight talk" and "Washington outsider" and the winks in between....that's it man....even a kid wouldn't vote for her..if he had the right to vote!

I Just like her personality...but trust me she is good at handling ALASKA...but US VP is too much for her to handle..she is really poort at handling international,climate,energy,economy,health care issues.

I think she has a really hard time to sticking to the issues. She always seem to get side tracked she has an attenion problem. Like where else in America could I be than at this debate. She not very prepared all that preparation at his camp. It didnt worked. They should have practice more with her shes not doing a very good job my vote is for Obama/Biden come Nov 4.

To me it seems Gov. Palin is either giving wrong answers or skipping questions. It like she has prepared for Physics exam and she is being asked about Maths questions. I am not impressed.

Roland Martin is right. Standards should not be lowered for any candidate especially not for Sarah Palin just because she does not know...we did not lower them for Hilary Clinton or any for Barack Obama and they should not be for Sarah Palin. When she accepted the nomination for vice presidency, she also accepted the tough criticism that goes with it...JUST LIKE THE REST OF THEM. If she was'nt up to it, then she should have stayed in Alaska and let someone like Condeleza Rice go for it- but God forbid that McCain would have tapped a qualified person such as Conde! Thanks

Sarah Palin doesn't have a brain of her own. She only has a few talking points that she uses no matter what the question. I think she's toast. I think I'm tired of listening to her. She does sound much better than her terrible interviews but she still doesn't have a clue because without the notecards she's done.

Mr Roland, do you think that gov. Palin was setting her bar so low on purpose with the Katie Couric interviews so she would sound intelligent tonight?

She's pretty good when she has down on paper.

Overall, she is winning, my friends........doesn't mean i will vote for her..

Roland, maybe Biden didn't know the General's name wasn't "McClellan" either, ha!

Biden is on fire and he just touched on a issue [Bush Doctrine] that she has no clue on, and as Amy Pohler said as Katie Couric on a skit, "Gov. Palin, it seems that when you are nervous or don' know what to say, you become more silly."

Man, Tina Fey has lots of material to work with this week!

I have an issue. We don't play hockey in the South. Will she answer a question?

a Palin administration scares the hell out of me. She said we need to bring alittle of wasilli to washington... This girl has fell and bumped her head

and...she's rambling

If I hear the Marv rich one more time, I think I'm going to scream. Her cram session made her into a rebot.

Palin is doing a nice job although over-using the "we are Mavericks" line. Biden looks absolutely Presidential!

If I wanted a cheerleader for the Vice President, Sarah Palin would fit the bill. Unfortunately, she is not what this country needs.

she's running out of lines

Okay, this is a job interview. After what we've heard so far who's getting the job?
Another thing, do you notice that everytime maverick or McCain is mentioned by Palin the men and womens' line both dip?

ENOUGH of the "winking" already!!!!!!! Jeeez that looks so juvenile and condescending !

Hi Roland,

Did any of you notice that Palin did not answer question about Pakistan?

I wonder if Sen. McCain has turned on baseball yet? If he comes out saying Gov. Palin did a good job – that will be a head scratcher.

She speaks to us like we are 3 and asking me if i want a cookie. She cannot answer a question to save her life.

I said it before..."she is a well rehearsed wind up doll" that has no depth of understanding. GO JOE!!!

I thought I was one the only one who heard her say she was a Washington outsidder. She is so nervous and she looks so overwhelmed. This VP pick is a joke...although I think she is sweet and nice looking she is CLUELESS! And she continues to repeat the same thing...her words are not her words.

This is seriously scary. She is clearly out of her league. Am I seriously watching this?

Palin played the POW card. Being a hero doesn't give you the judgement to deal with complex national and global issues.

As an independant voter...Im suprised at how well she's doing. I expected much worse

amazing how people see what they want to see.

I and a group of educated men and women, specifically African American women are not hockey mommas! or Joe sixpacks!

It is NUCLEAR not NUCULAR!

Its just a shame this woman has no clue what is going on in the world if this was Obama they would have crucified him....how can you lower the bar for vice president? So you are saying I can go to a two year college run for mayor of a small island be a great football dad a I can be vice president....More SNL material

PLEASE no more POW talk...

Palin is doing OK and holding her own, but Joe Biden is performing very well. No gaffes noted so far which is good for the Obama/Biden ticket.

Palin just made a poor me statement about pundits...grow up and deal with the commetary, I do not feel sorry for you Governor!!

did she just call her self a "maverick"?

He sounds great. She is sidestepping quite a few issues, and using lots of slogans.

Roland.. you are the last person to make stupid wisecracks about an advanced degree in anything.

Blah, Blah, Blah do eveything perfect because we live in a perfect world

This Palin character is creepy. She's just reciting what her trainers spoon fed her the last few days....she seems like an evil teacher. She even makes Biden seem wise. If she was a man they would have torn her apart for being incompetent. Maverick my bum.

Someone tell Gov. Palin that this is a debate, not McCain's cabin where she, undoubtedly, practiced memorizing her staged responses on talking points that might be in tonight's debate. I think it was hilarious when Palin completely ducked an issue to spout out her own talking point, and then the moderator bringing up that same issue afterwards.

Whyyyyy won't she answer the dang questions? And when do you study at a debate? I swear she's reading her answers. PLease create a bridge to somewhere and put her on it.

I am just wondering how Sara Palin is going to talk to world leaders about Nuclear control when she calls it Nukiller. I am just in shock but probably i shouldn't be. But i am ashamed about the fact that the people we need to vote for are not even close to leader. I hope we don;t have another 8 years of president and vice president who will be laughed at by the whole world. Any common people is better than these jokers

I am very nervous and worried about our country. But maybe not, seems like we are a joke.

Roland, the main stream media going to let Gov. Palin get away with not directly answearing any questions? I don't believe mainstreet America is as dumb as she thinks!!!!

Most important election ever. Stark differences. Pallin not President ever!!

Thank you America, Thank you all, Thank you for Debate people!, Thank you Dems and Repubs for this debate between the VP picks...

We have finally realized why DEMS should win.

Repub VP pick should go back to 2nd grade and start answering to the question asked and not to something else

Thanks again

This Women is is out her League...Please go to a commercial!!!

OMG she started off pretty good, but now I think shes drunk!.. Did she take something before she started.. its getting worse and worse... She cant stay on question!

This is a better debate than the Presidential one. The moderator is asking some tough questions that don't have simple answers.

bla bla bla do eveything perfect because we live in a perfect world

She's doing better than I thought she would, but I'm really tired of hearing about "Joe Sixpack" and "hockey moms."

(Sarah Palin voice): Darn I'm losing the debate!

Joe has got remember the cut away shots

Cynicism is not what we tuned in for, The Gov needs to answer the questions. She has been fed too much info that she has no concept of where to let it out she need to listen and answer the questions .As Roland Martin has said very well, she does remind me of running for office in high School .... she is really doing herself a disservice to continue in this bid for 2nd in command, she has no concept of what a debate entails .. men this thing is WAAAAYYYYYYYYY over her head out of her league.. she is definitely on a road to nowhere.. by the good analogy Senator Biden, "Road to nowhere..."
This has nothing to do with Mcains age or Palins gender it is the measurable fand accurate facts and genuine knowledgeable individuals at this level.. are you kidding me this is the position of
President and vice-president of the Great United States Of America. Has nothing to do with a president with a "bucket list as Chris rock joked or her being dumb as many citizens have written in blogs etc it has everything to do are you prepared and qualified for the particular office that is up for takes dont fool yourself Mrs Palin .. look into the crevies and corners of your soul and your conscience and be honest if with no one else yourself, not all of us women are being strangled and brain dead about being a hockey mom and a pit bull pit bull antics is not necessary to achieve whats best for us.. the american general public....
do you see confidence in Biden its screaming at us hes been there knows the facts and is telling it like it is not from reported speech as palin has received giving us half trurths and innuendos and faricating stuff as well as stetching the truth giving sound bytes that when put in context is sooooooooooooooooooooooo inaccurate. Mrs Palin please quit while you are ahead and believe me you are fast slipping behind.. a word to the wise believe me is sufficient.

It's almost over. Thank goodness. I hope this is the last time we have to listen to her insane random phrases.

Wow unbelievable...the democratic party told the nation a year ago the war in Iraq is lost. Wow bunch of losers

They were wrong then and now are unable to admit there mistake.

Why can't biden admit that he, Obama, Durbin, and the rest did say that the war was lost......

I guess this speaks volume about trust.....it is for this reason that the american people cannot trust the democrats

Gov. Palin is doing a great job!! Palin is showing the World that Obama and Biden are just not ready for the job of Leadership!!

After tonight everyone should be for McCain and Palin!!!!!!

Palin is out of her leaque, she can't compete! it is no contest between her and biden, i just shudder to the bone to think if mccain/palin elected she is a hearbeat from being the president!

GREAT answer Biden to the potential of a Biden admin.

Why does she have that smug and crazy grin al the time.

Gov. Palin is struggling tremendously with regard to getting past the cue card rhetoric. Biden is at the top of his game tonight...

she's like the Exxon Valdez- SUNK!

I'm amazed at how Palin is not answering the questions that are directed to her, instead she changes the subject and goes back to what she thinks she has knowledge about. Biden came prepared and has all his facts straight and I definitely can't say the same for Palin.

I find it annoying that she continues to avoid direct answers to the questions. She keeps spitting out soundbites, I haven't heard her answer a single question with a substantive answer. I also find her "golly gee" cutesy tone degrading.

Wow, she is awful. Boring, reheared answers.

This lady scares me. I'm not sure if I'm watching a debate or a hour and half John McCain commeriical.

I'm thinkin' that Obama's youngest daughter should have subbed in for Biden tonight. That would have made it a fair fight.

Can you help check the tax issue exchange earlier of whether taxes will be raised for small businesses above $250,000 in income. Palin says the Obama tax program will impact small business; Biden says no. I had not seen this claim.

I'll admit she started off strong, it was surprisingly refreshing 'til she started going in circles and it just went downhill after that. Looking like she didn't know what the hell she was talkin about....again. SMH

Gov. Palin seems lost and doesn't really answer the questions. On the other hand, I could easily feel confortable with Biden as President. I don't think I'd trust Gov. Palin to walk my dog around the block and return him safely, let alone run this country.

who's actually winning

Tomorrow morning the pundits are going to be laughing at Palin. She's right they will be saying "who said what." And they'll be pointing out how she said nothing.

It appears that Sen. Biden is debating and Gov. Palin is making speeches and rehearsed statements. To her own credit she said that she may not answer what the moderator or the Senator wants, but she is going to speak to the American people. If that's the case she should have not even appeared on a debate and just appeared at a rally.

This is crazy can she hear her self

Please put Palin the bobblehead doll back on the dashboard of a chevy where she obviously belongs...JUST ANSWER A QUESTION ALREADY!!!

I have never seen anyone skate around the issues like Palin is, but then again she is a HOCKEY mom so she should know how to skate well....

Can you give us more info on the dials, who has red and who green? Thanks.

rollin – I see your scoring WHAT DEBATE ARE YOU WATCHING !!!

I think that sarah palin should get some more experience on what she is doing right now but if she doesnt and somehow she wins she'll have alot of trouble ahead....I think she should just wait another 4 years before doing all this.

who is this woman!!!! she is not bright at all and she cannot answer a single question!!! why am i still watching this!?

theyre both doing their best... at least we havent heard
"Main Street" 27 times in 10 minutes.
Im enjoying this immensily but sadly when its over we'll
have to listen to the talkingheads push their political spin.

How about having just real people comment for the next debate
instead of all the experts that are not being unbiased like newspeople
should be.

Im available for the next debate as a commentator and I also offer
to be the moderator too.

the debate is continuing as I write this...but am just wondering if Palin took speech lessons from the moron in the white house..i simply don't know, if she and mcain are in the white house, I can endure even four more years of hearing a nitwit not pronounce nuclear correctly...has anyone noticed...just like the moron, she pronounces 'nuclear'..'new-que-lar' instead of 'new-kleee-er'...gawd..will it ever end....

Why does no one correct her pronunciation of the word nuclear??? We have suffered through 8 years of "nucular".

Palin has kind of a slick way about her. She keeps the smile even when she launches her attacks. like when she said lol im an outsider to washington i dont understand why you vote for it then against it. ppl want straight talk." credit for trying

Tell me why this woman cannot answer a dang question

WHAT IS SHE EVEN TALKING ABOUT....JOHN MCCAIN KNOWS HOW TO WIN A WAR????? WHY BECAUSE HE WAS A POW....I DON'T THINK THAT MEANS YOU KNOW HOW TO WIN?....

Do you notice she says "new-cle-ar" just like Bush does?

please, someone, buy this woman a "G". we are not cravin' we are craving. she has awful speech. New Killer???

She is so short of words. she is a glaring example of McCain's Judgement (mis judgment)

Sarah has not answered any question effectively. It is painful watching her.

Biden has stated clearly several debate winning responses....about IRaq and Obama's correct decisions...McCain's war related decision which have been wrong. She keeps getting snotty when she doesn't have answer. McCain has never won a war...how does he know that Palin?
She is winding down and Biden is getting stronger.

Nucular!!!! lol... Palin mis-pronounces half of the words she says. I feel bad for McCain for having such a weak running mate.

It is apparent that her handlers helped her study her hot topics throughout the week and when another topic is brought up, she immediately goes to what she was brainwashed with. YOU HAVE TO BE ON YOUR FEET! How does she not realize that she is babbling nonsense?

umm I ...gotcha...gonna...she is so scripted....won't answer the questions..has her own agenda...is out of her league..

She is frigtening. Absolutely frightening. She cannot answer simple, straight forward questions that I could answer. She is so out of her league. I never thought we would have someone worse than Cheney or Dan Quayle.

It's "Drill Baby Drill...."

Her voice alone is like fingernails on a chalk board. I would rather slide down a banister full of razor blades than listen to this buffoon. You know the world is laughing.

Palin hasn't answered hardly if any questions asked. She is totally out of her element. Most of her answers make me want to start snoring.

Biden is so many levels above Palin on foreign policy that it's ridiculous that Palin is even debating him.

I want someone to tell Sarah Palin that "cute" does not a vice president make. This woman is an insult to Joe Biden's intelligence.

Biden is facts.

Palin is nothing more than lipgloss.

SNL will have a ball with a new skit from this debate as well on Saturday, Sarah. TINA FEY IS AWESOME AS PALIN!

It seems like she says nothing...
Lots of talk and nothing said...

Senator Biden really demonstrates his knowledge and understanding of foreign policy. SP is just giving stock answers that I suspect she has been coached to do.

Biden has a short memory on his voting records. Or I knw... He lies.

Don't she know how to answer a question on her own. If she knew what was going on she would not have to use the cheat sheet for the answers and staying on what she was trained to say. So this shows that she can't answer a question on her own she has to use one that someone else has told her to use. She reminds me of someone that has to take her by the hand and show her how to answer question. Joe is doing a great job atleast he is answering the questions. Obama/Biden the way for a change. Lets show them that Missouri know's who to vote for.

I am sure everyone heard Palin earlier when she stated that she did not have to answer the questions that the moderator or Biden asked her to answer. Does she know she is at a debate?

Is it just me or does Gov. Palin have a very "jerky" speaking style? Kinda like that kid in college or high school who didn't know what they were talking about and were trying to quickly get through the talking points of their science project.

Palin keeps writing her answers down and reading from the paper. I guess so that she doesn't forget what she's going to say. Too bad she doesn't have this stuff embedded in her brain. She's not doing a "terrible" job, but she IS stumbling. she keeps repeating talking points. her strongest point is that she is looking directly at the voter. but this sounds like an extended cut of her Charlie Gibson interview.

Biden is a putz. Palin is on her game and is winning this debate no doubt!

Gov. Palin is doing well in her responses. Too bad Mr. Castle of the Constitution Party isn't here.

After watching the debate tonight, Palin will cause McCain to loose the election!

Did she really say OHHH Man

Sarah, come on. I am not a fan of yours, but as a woman, COME ON.

She said it's drill, BABY, drill. Haha!! She's a fool! I love how she plays the cute card. That mess works in Alaska, but women in the rest of the US of A don't feel like watching a woman running for the second highest office in the land play the cute card!!

She have really Scared me... wow, if she becomes VP, everyone should leave the country. my my. Scary situation.

independent here in Ohio and am going to vote Rebublican. As you welll know there is alot fo voter fraud going on now.

I am so disappointed that Gwen Ifill allowed Palin to stand up there and not answer her questions

Hi Roland, TLSCK1999 from the morning here. What Ed Rollins is doing on the HD channel is ridiculous. I am leaving this nation if America thinks Sarah Palin can be a Vice President.

Biden is amazing!!!!

All I can say is that Sarah Palin's voice is starting to sound like a fork scrapping across a ceramic plate!!!!

I'm glad to hear the Gov. palin watched the primary debates. Was that the information she is relying on for this one?

Why does it seem like she is talking in circles to please herself? Oh that is because she is! What is she saying? The facts have found her lying all night.

Okay, People we really need to listen carefully and make a sound decision. Not based on Race but Facts.....so on November 4, you vote for change and not for race. Obama is the answer for the next chapter in American History......This is a scary situation and we as Americans can not allow this ticket to run our Nation.... McCain/Palin NOWAY...Roland.....love the work you do!

is there even the slightest chance that you can find anything wrong with Biden's presentation, just to add an ounce of credibility to your comments?

she's rambling on so much now that she is even loosing the men's attention! What that heck is she talking about!

A 2 year Governor up to now, has much more executive experience than a one term Senator running for President. Clarifying that, but Obama has my support, we need to set a time table for withdrawwal of troops.

Sarah Palin is not qualified to be a US senator let alone being a VP.
Does anyone think she can run a big city like Los Angleles or New York?

McCain picked her just to go after the Hillary supporters.
It bothers on naivety for anyone to think Sarah Palin is anything close to being Hillary.

How many people in their right minds will like to see Sarah Palin discussing the future of America with world leaders like German chancellor Angela Merkel, or Dmitry Medvedev of Russia? Can she look Putin in the eyes and make a demand of him to do anything against his plans in the interest of the USA or the world?

Let's not kid ourselves. It's a shame to have someone of Sarah Palin's experience running for VP of the United States.

Wow. Its soooo obvious when Palin is reciting a speech compared to when she is speaking from her own thoughts. When she recites a speech she looks at the camera and speaks well. When she speaks from her own thoughts she looks away from the camera and talks more in slurs and with a very strong accent.

Almost none of her comments have been her own spontaneous thoughts.

It is hard to even fathom the difference between Biden and Palin in terms of experience in government and world affairs. Granted Biden has been in Congress a long time but I would rather have someone like him with all of his experience than her with none and just being a puppet. Being a VP, I'm sorry, requires at least some years of experience and to have education opinion you need some form of experience.

Biden couldn't have smacked Palin pretty hard but he gave her a pass.

You could tell that he wanted to do it.

She kept calling the general in Afghanistan McClellan. His name is McKiernan.

Roland. She is not answering the questions...she is going back to her talking points.

No! It's time for America: to do that...

I'd like to see Gov Palin actually answer a question.
She is regurgitating rehearsed answers with key talking points.

Biden has just run over Palin. Wow, she is out of touch. As a awing voter, I can make up my mind. Its obvious that she has no clue what kind of depth of knowledge it takes to run for this high of an office.

I have been watching this debate for a hour and MY BRAIN HURTS....his answers are so intelligent and she is like a 3 year old.....NOW SHE IS CALLING HERSELF A WASHINGTON OUTSIDER!!!! WHAT IS GOING ON!!!! SHE IS SO ABSENT MINDED!!!

She is just wayyyyyyyyyyy to "kitschy' !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I had to turn it off because I started to feel bad for her.

you are right, she's not close to reality at all!!! just answer the questions Palin and stop stumbling!!!!!!!!

Is this thing over yet? I can't take much more of her being evasive, arrogant, sarcastic and condensing. She should not be standing on the same stage as Joe Biden.

This is absolutely painful to watch. She is not in touch with anything. Please do not vote for her. She's trying to be cute now because she doesn't know what she is talking about.

Palin time and time again keeps pointing out her inexperience!!