Romney provided no specifics, at least none that people have been asking for. He lied about positions he's already taken previously, and he agreed with the president on things the president has already accomplished in spite of the Republican party. All I know is that Mitt is prepared to say anything he thinks will help him win, whether it's truth or not doesn't matter.

Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan have a big economic plan:

Offer $5 trillion in tax cuts weighted towards the wealthiest Americans without adding a penny to the deficit. According to Romney, they'd pay for it by closing loopholes and deductions for the wealthy. The problem is that the math doesn't add up, especially because they've taken measures that benefit the wealthy, like the loophole for carried interest and preferential treatment for investment income, off the table.

Nonpartisan experts, including some of Romney's own outside economic advisers, have added it all up, and they say that in order to make the Romney-Ryan tax plan work, deductions that middle class families rely on -- like mortgage and child deductions -- will have to be cut, leading to a $2,000 tax increase for the average middle class family with children.

When Ryan was asked this weekend to explain how they'd actually pull this off, Ryan said, "I don't have the time. It would take me too long to go through all the math." But no amount of time would make that math work.

Can anybody explain what was wrong with the American flag romney wore on his suit jacket during the debate? It looked like it had a black mark in the middle of it? What does that refer to?

Mitt Romney agreed it's "fair" that millionaires and billionaires like himself pay a lower tax rate than many middle-class families do.

That's straight from Romney. On "60 Minutes" , he actually agreed that it's "fair" that he got to pay a lower tax rate on the millions he made last year than a worker making $50,000 paid. Why? "It's the right way to encourage economic growth."

As anyone who's been paying attention over the past few decades knows, Romney is flat-out wrong. Tax breaks for millionaires and tax hikes for middle-class families lead to endless deficits, not economic growth or job creation. That's why President Obama is fighting to ensure that millionaires like Romney pay their share.

The symbol on Romney's flag lapel pin is the Secret Service star logo. It's a gift from his USSS agents.

A registered independent that consistently votes Republican, doesn't really amount to much other than a false title. If you're confident in Mitt's abilities, maybe you can help fill in some of the details on how increasing the deficit while cutting spending will help create jobs.

Addressing the poll I say this:

Republicans vote: yes

Democratsvote: no

What maybe the number here to look at is the middle who say they are more likely to vote for Obama.

Over all Mitt did very well. And although his facts were worse than Obama's, even Obama had some eyeballrubs from me.

Mitt on the other hand kept repeating the same lies. WE DO NOT HAVE 23 Million unemployed Mitt. That's a lie.

Among other things his glossing over the fact that his VP supports Obama's proposal for Medicare fraud reduction. Odd Mitt forgot that. :)

Where Obama did fail is going after the gaffs Mitt made. I suspect he may have thought them as bait, but he should have gone after him and play hard ball.

At the end of the day I expect Mitt to tighten the race more with tonights debate, but it was not the home-run he needed to make a big hit out of it. But if any Democrat was happy with Obama's performance overall they are lying too. He could have done better.

Elliot the only thing Obama got smoked on was by the lies Romney told again. Romney took the mic and wouldn't let anyone get a word in. He reminded me of Bay Buchanan on meet the Press. She just dropped her head and started talking and refused to stop and she wouldn't let anyone else talk. When all you have is lies, you can't let anyone get a chance to call you out on those lies. You think Romney won but the Polls will show that your wrong.

Romney won this debate by being Romney and going back on everything he has said for the last year and a half. He did it calmly and convincingly, like he always does when he changes position. Obama was unprepared and distracted, and should have attacked Romney on the inconsistencies between what he said tonight and what he has been saying.

@ Jeff.. Best post yet. I voted no. Mitt reminds me of a car used salesman. Over-selling the goods and browbeating us into driving away.

He wants to repeal The Affordable Care Act with what? Romneycare? Same room, different color, cheap movie!

Mitt can't explain or say HOW in the phuckk he would get the revenue from the closing loopholes to offset his tax-cuts. Let alone how to explain the rush of more non-taxpayers entering retirement in the next oh 4-8 years would do to his economy. He touts creating 12 million jobs. Well Mittens those 12 million are already expected to come back anyways. You can't create something that already exists or will be expected to exist according to economists. http://www.democraticunderground.com/125182187 Read that you bleeding hearted GOpers.. Mitt LIES more than GWB and Colon Powell about WMDs..

America must move forward not back to the 1980s when Reaganomics ruined America almost for good. The GOP have NEVER EVER cared for the middle-class and whats sad, is a majority of the GOP are middle-class. They just love the brand of being GOP too much. Its like those fanboys and the icrap they gobble up each year. 4 inches of fun. Thats revolutionary.

The GOPs best hope lies in a tax-dogging, possibly non-American goof for its nominee. I hear he was maybe born in Mexico to a Mexican grandma and Georgie boy

WIPEOUT!

@Jeff-1592116,

To begin with, measuring "unemployment" is hard. Currently, only about 60 percent of all people over 18 hold jobs. By this measure -- the broadest one possible -- the "real" unemployment rate is 40 percent. But it's ridiculous to think that. Most people who don't work are in school, staying home to raise children, or retired. Thus, government statisticians have the difficult task of trying to measure people who want to work but can't find anything.

And this requires some judgment calls. In fact, only a little more than half of those counted as "unemployed" actually lost a job anytime in the recent past and now want another one. This is measured by the U-2 unemployment rate that currently stands at 4.6 percent. (Down .5 of one percent in the past year). The other 45 percent of the 8.2 percent of the "unemployed" workforce consists of people who, for one reason, or another didn't have a job in the recent past but want one now. While it's certainly desirable for all of these people to find work, not all of them meet conventional images of unemployment. For example, the widely reported unemployment rate includes full-time students seeking part-time work and people who have never held a job of any sort and are looking for one.

Romney came across to me as a 65 yr old bully CEO.
Sorry but that was my impression of him tonight,
over-running the moderator, he would not shut-up!
And no, this debate did not change one bit on who I'm voting for on Nov 2nd., as a matter of fact, it reinforced my vote.
God forbids that I have the kind of personality that Romney displayed here tonight!

I like Mitt, what's not to like, 12 million new jobs, 5Trillion in tax cuts for the wealthy, no new taxes, pay down the deficit, no problem, what's that, the Titanic is unsinkable, cool. Now gimmie some kool aid!!

Romney looked like a loose Cannon, he was very funky !!!!!!!!!!

Romney lied through his teeth in the debate, lets see if the media picks up on it !!!!!!!!!!!!!

Romney said it all in response to President Obama “…you said you get a deduction for getting a plant overseas. Look, I've been in business for 25 years. I have no idea what you're talking about. I maybe need to get a new accountant.” Thereby admitting that shipping U.S. jobs overseas is what he has been doing for 25 years! Now we REALLY want to see the arrogant SOB's tax returns!

Then there was this one from Romney (just a small slip of tongue): "I used to consult to businesses — excuse me, to hospitals and to health care providers. I was astonished at the creativity and innovation that exists in the American people." No wonder these Republican rip off artists want vouchers. Got to line the pockets of these "businesses" who paid Romney handsomely to "consult!"

Sal,What kool-aid are you drinking? How can you possibly say that claims that Romney has not paid any taxes for 10 years has been disproven numerous times when he has not yet released his tax returns? What evidence do you need for proof? Whatever Fox News tells you to believe?? I for one need hard evidence and until that evidence is released by Romney, I can only guess that he's clearly hiding some bad news in those tax returns. Aren't you at all worried that Romney is already hiding things from the American people before he is even elected president? Aren't you at all concerned that Romney won't tell the American people how he's going to cut the deficit without raising taxes, while creating 12 million magical new jobs out of thin air, and repeal Obamacare without losing all of the positive benefits of the plan and still pay for it without adding to the deficit? You must vote based on faith, to believe that too without asking the candidate for a detailed plan for how he will account for each and every job!

Republicans for Voldemort!

Romney is a wolf in sheep's clothing.. Major flip - flop on every issue he has campaigned for. All for the audience only. This dude is a snake in the grass.

Sleuth

Your concentration on the lapel pin is pretty pathetic considering the much larger issues of the day.

http://piedtype.com/2012/09/03/whats-on-romneys-flag-pin/

Do you like your crow raw, with feathers and all or dressed and cooked?

DB AKron....

Forget the polls, if you really believe that investing in Mitt is a great idea, go ahead and pony up. Right now, every bookmaker has odds in favor of Obama winning this election, so if you think he's a good investment, it looks like you can make some money on that bet. Why not turn that optimism of yours into some real $?

I am amazed at the pundits talking themselves into a frenzy; simple appearance: Romney was crass and had a very shallow understanding of all the topics that they touched on. Now people are upset that Obama wasn't rude enough? Give me a break.

If President Obama wants to win this election, he better get some traction in his next debate, because if he spins his wheels like he did tonight, he might as well drop out and save the taxpayers the cost of this election.

DB Akron....

I've posted many things tonight, and they haven't all been about the flag lapel pin, but I did have to get closer to the TV to make sure he was indeed wearing an American flag in the first place. I have an American flag flying outside my house right now, and nowhere on it do I see a giant black circle. When the country remembers a tragedy, we fly flags at half-staff, and we don't place giant black circles in the middle of the flag. To me it's just another reason to question Willard, and proof dimwits like you don't pay attention to details nor ask for any.

I'm sure you're still a little raw about being humiliated by my response to another one of your brilliant posts the other day, but calm down, you're starting to look as desperate as Mitt.

I was impressed by the fact, that issues like health care and education which were discussed by both candidates, are funded, not by federal tax dollars, but local property taxes, and bonds paid for with regional sales taxes. Cut's to Education? Where? In school lunch programs, or new football stadiums for grades K-12. Obama mentioned a class with a 10 year old text book. During the teachers strike in Chicago they mentioned they had one text book per class. Still the question remains, " What are our taxes paying for? " Modern roads, modern schools, modern health care facilities, or maintaining dinosaur infrastructure and the money goes to the pension and benefit packages of public employee retirees? If the kids got an education in K-12, billions would be saved having to provide them a high school education in community college. Scholarships for 4 year colleges? College degrees at Masters level aren't getting job interviews. And why in the hell, can't legislation be passed to control the "profits by the health insurance industry". If the Securities and Exchange Commission can investigate securities fraud, why can't the health insurance industry be investigated for health insurance cost hikes?

First pf all I am an INDEPENDENT: evaluation of both debaters in the real world of debates is:

First, Mr. Lehr (name spelling not sure) is the worst monitor I've ever seen/heard. His format for this kind of debate was a dismal failure. His questions were not direct enough (too vague and often too broad). He never did push for a direct answer.

Both debaters did poorly:

Obama didn't always come across as focused, or appeared as if his mind were elsewhere. His passive behavior did not pick up on possible openings for rebuttals. He was quite calm with the constant rudeness and interruptions from Romney; but should have chided Romney into following the debate protocol rules set up by the monitor. Obama's answers came across with sincerity and concern for the middles class, elderly, and the less fortunate people. He answered all questions with clarity (but could have provided some more details with one question). Most of his responses stayed within the time guideline allotted, and his responses were consistent. His personal behavior was appropriate for the debate.

As for Romney, he was aggressively rude and condescending to Mr. Lehr and to Pres. Obama. In a real debate you are deducted for not listening or showing respect to the monitor. Romney went over time in all of his responses, and would not stop when requested by the monitor (more points deducted). Romney did not execute his answers with clarity or specifics (or details, and always spoke with generalities- more deductions). Romney contradicted his own responses twice (one with healthcare and the other with taxes). His stage presence came across with rudeness, arrogance, testy, condescending, and total lack of respect for those involved with the debate,and most esp. with the monitor in charge (more deductions for poor conduct displayed.) Yes, he was aggressive, but definitely not in a favorable or admirable way. His behavior displayed, came off irritating and annoying. His concerns for the middle class did not come off as sincere. His answers flip-flop far, far too much on the hour and by the hour. Finally, Romney's rude behavior came across as if he were the monitor, and could have cared less with what Mr.Lehr wanted.

Did the debate change my mind?? No way, would I ever want an inconsistent leader with the qualities and skills that were displayed by Romney tonight. Aggressive behavior does not make for a good and descent leader, anymore than it did with Hitler.

Mitt Romney is by far the best man for the job of President of the United States. This debate just confirmed that. Obama is nothing but a gifted orator and an empty suit that doesn't know what to do to turn around this economy.

Umm alan.. exactly what did Romney say HE was going to do to turn around the economy? An economy that is actually already turning around btw...

But seriously, what did Romney tell us he would do? You won't be able to say, because he did not say a thing in that whole debate. He just throws out generalizations. No solutions, no real ideas.

I actually agreed with Romney when he talked about putting forth concepts and desired end results and then working with Congress to develop ways to achieve them. This is done in the corporate world. Very seldom does the CEO provide a fleshed out step by step plan on what he/she wants to do. As for his discussion on tax cuts - what was not mentioned was that if you put people back to work - you increase the money being paid into the system - thereby providing the means by which you can then cut taxes across the board.

It did not change my mind regarding whom I'll vote for, which is Obama, but... in the first hour, which all I watched, I thought Romney was much more effective than Obama at driving home his key points.

I was disappointed in Obama. He was too often halting, vague and wandering in his answers; I felt that I could have argued his points better than did he.

How Obama could not have been better prepared to drive home a) the similarities of his health care reform to the program championed by Romney in Massachusetts, and b) Romney's highly conservative positions, often voiced during the Republican primaries, I'll never understand.

Definitely NOT President Obama's A-Game.

mittie on the other hand needed this to STAY in the game. He is. But it definitely was not the "game changer" for him as the right would have liked.

It did show that in this "debate" format Pres Obama needs to improve. He can't appear "Presidential" and not mix it up with a challenger. At the same time he doesn't need to get down and roll in the mud as romney would have wanted.

It's a fine line.

Watch for a change of tactics and demeanor for Pres Obama in the next 2 debates.

Funny how romney never gave a clear answer on how he would change things. all he sais was what some americans want to hear like " I will make america great again " things that do not explain how he is going to make things better.. He has no program !

My vote is for President Obama !!

So now all you have to do to "win" a debate is retell the same lies and walk all over the moderator? The fact that Mittens bullied Jim Lehrer and lied through his teeth all night only shows Romney to be exactly the person the voters already don't like.

You liberals either were just not listening or your head is buried in the sand. Romney said he will NOT lower any taxes that will result in increasing the deficit. The lowering of the tax rates will result in putting people back to work. If people work, they pay taxes. Pay taxes, more revenue. Simple concept to understand, unless of course you are a democrat who doesn't understand economics.

Republicans for Obama, you might be registered a republican, but in reality you aren't. If you were a true republican, you would be able to see Obama's lack of economic knowledge. Why don't you just be forthright and re-register as a deomocrat.

Nicole Woodman

The symbol on Romney's flag lapel pin is the Secret Service star logo. It's a gift from his USSS agents.

A "gift?" A few of you couldn't be more wrong. Are you saying the Secret Service is playing politics? You're wrong, it's not a gift, it's a requirement from the Secret Service.

OBAMA/BIDEN....2012!!!!

The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results Harry. Been there done that. Economists agree Mittens would increase the deficit by 7 trillion which he says is not true. Mittens can not do math or he is counting on the fact that you can't.

There were three losers last night: Obama, who was ticked at Romney for not following the rules set for the debate; Romney for being a bully who decided to throw away the rules set for the debate and arrogantly and continuously interrupted, as well as repeated what he had said earlier over and over; Jim Lehrer for totally failing to be a proper moderator and keep the debate on track. The final loser was the American Voter, who got nothing out of this useless debate. And I saw the whole bloody thing!

To begin with, measuring "unemployment" is hard.

Not within the ball park.

There are 12 Million unemployed and with the UNDER employed added in there are 23 Million Un and Under Employed. Mitt keeps getting the figures mixed up.

First, Mr. Lehr (name spelling not sure) is the worst monitor I've ever seen/heard. His format for this kind of debate was a dismal failure

You must have just got political if you've never heard of Jim Lehrer before. As for your ignorant condemnation of him, maybe you should learn a little about Mr Lehrer before looking like an idiot.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Lehrer

A lot of trolls doing what they do best - trolling. Even left leaning people should be disappointed in Obama's performance as a president. First two letters in a word PRESIDENT is PR and this is what we had for the last almost four years. And according to Obama himself he did not do a good job (telling story - his words) to American people

cruzin - but you're ignoring the fact that nearly all economist agree that regardless of who is president, there will be about 12 million jobs created. So, both presidents have that "tax base" to pay for those tax cuts with.

So how is that a +1 for Romney, when both will get the same benefit?

Of course, to acknoweldge that reality that - people employed then pay taxes, thereby pay down the defecit...doesnt the reverse become true?

If lots of people are suddenly not employed, those people arent paying taxes, and the deficit balloons - without any additional spending - as it did while Obama was president, because ALL of the losses occured in the months prior to and just after becoming president.

As for Romney's "i'll work with congress approach"...how exactly will Romney work with the democrats IF Romney is elected and they say, just like the republicans did when Obama was elected, "it is our mission to make Romney a 1 term president"?

I dont see democrats doing that, because ultimately they care more about this nation than they do themselves...unlike the republicans.

Compromise requires both sides giving in - republicans refused to do that, even an inch, for the last 4 years. and I disagree about your CEO statement...they dont ask all their employees for their input and come up with something, they surround themselves with yes men and make their ideas happen within their own framework - and then dictate that down to the entire company. if you are not on board, you get fired.

Romney cant fire congress or the sentate if they stonewall him like republicans did Obama.

FORGET BOTH THESE CLOWNS

You'd have to be brain dead to vote for either of them, the only viable candidate that could make a difference is Ron Paul, do your research people.

The President is still the best man for the next 4 years. Mitt Romney is a lying, arrogant, greedy man. He thinks the middle class makes $250,000 a year. He is completely out of touch with the American PEOPLE, except for the UBER rich, like the KOCH bros and their ilk. Mitt still lied, straight faced...I don't trust him, never will. He is too much of a narcissist.

I am a registered Independent who DID vote for President Obama four years ago, believing in his "Hope" & "Change"! "Hope" for jobs and a "Change" in the partisanship in Washington that he promised!

For 3+-years I have waited and watched, hoping that President Obama would "Stand-up" and show "LEADERSHIP" in Washington - I am still waiting and watching.

I am NOT a big fan of Governor Romney. Although I dislike how the "Left" have distorted his record and dismissed his accomplishments as "trivial". I also despise reading comments about how everything that Romney says is a lie or a "flip-flop" but then try and defend President Obama's lies and "flip-flops" in the same breath.

I have taken the time in these last two elections to read ALL the candidates platforms - Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Libertarians, etc. Although I find myself more aligned with a T.J. O'Hara or a Gary Johnson then I do with either President Obama or Governor Romney - I realize that my vote is too important to cast for a candidate (however good they might be as President) who DOES NOT stand a chance of winning.

There has been a lot of talk about how few Americans have NOT made-up their minds yet, and those that haven't are somehow ignorant or mentally challenged.

The fact of the matter is: there are many of us "Undecided's" out here that would like to vote for a candidate with the likability of President Obama and the success of a Governor Romney (we all can dream).

After watching last night's debate, if the election was held today - I'd have to cast a vote for Romney. There was nothing that President Obama said or did that gave me any confidence that he possesses the "capacity" to LEAD! Governor Romney on the other-hand demonstrated throughout the evening that he grasped and understood the subject matter being discussed, had reasonable ideas of how to address the major problems facing this country, the ability and willingness to work across party-lines and most importantly how to LEAD!

For me, it will be interesting to watch the 3 remaining debates to see if Obama/Biden can recover, can begin to show Leadership, convince me that they deserve another four-years...but at this moment-in-time, I would have to vote for Romney.

We need LEADERSHIP in Washington - currently we are not getting any from President Obama, VP Biden, Harry Reid, Mitch McConnell, John Boehner, Nancy Pelosi, etc. It's time for a NEW approach.

To those who want to claim that the House GOP have been obstructionists...I will say that you are correct - but recent history plainly shows that BOTH party's are guilty of this tactic and in both Chambers. But ask yourself this: Why were Kennedy, Reagan and Clinton "effective" President's? Because they found a way to break-through the partisan grid-lock, show Leadership and get things done. Carter, Bush, Bush, Obama were unable to do so and are correctly thought to be "ineffective" Presidents!

I've said my peace, now let the onslaught from the "Left" and the "Right" begin.

This is still pretty simple.

Obama, having no idea where Romney would land on policies, took the high road and "lost" the debate.

Romney, willing to say whatever the f#$k he had to say to win the debate, 'won" the debate.

Those looking for any reason they can find to not vote Obama will swing to Romney.

Those recognizing that he just completely abandoned his right wing partners to win the debate, will swing to Obama.

But what's next? What's next is that now Obama has all he needs to do whatever he needs to do to win the election. If the polls swing to Romney because of the debate, it will take but 5 minutes to shred Romney on all his new etch-a-sketch moments. If the polls don't move, he'll just take the high road again and let the fact checkers do their work.

It really is hard to re-invent yourself daily like Romney has and not be caught in today's high-info environment.

So go ahead, Romney fans, celebrate your day. Just remember that Obama's strategy is always long term and he has been underestimated way too many times already.

@ RepublicansForObama-6186389 You were never a republican. Why do you tell so many lies? I have read your older post before you created your new ID. You are a fraud.

Independent Reasoning

I've said my peace, now let the onslaught from the "Left" and the "Right" begin.

Okay. Here it comes... prepared for my onslaught?

Good Post.

What we saw was a very well rehearsed ex-CEO show you exactly how to close a sale. He won the debate. He said all the right things. He said things that were completely new and unverifiable that got him through this day. I, as his debate teacher, would give him an "A".

But the reality of all that he "sold" last night will come back to bite him... all the way from the small business taxed as personal income sob-story, to his new found "cut everyone's taxes" strategy (called "buying votes), etc., etc.

And his "Reaganesk" speaking voice worked well... I had noticed he was trying to sound like Reagan so it made me sick, but it was effective.

My opinion is that he definitely won the first round. Congratulations. But he did so by giving his opponent all the ammunition. That tactic DOES has it's downside in the long run... a sort of win the battle, lose the war strategy.

But, again, great post!

420 Frees the Mind

I think he gave plenty of specifics about how the numbers add up. If you were listening to the debate, you would have heard them. For starters, once you get people employment, they are no longer taking from the welfare system. That is saving the government money. Secondly, when people become employed, they are paying taxes. With the increase in revenue, closing loopholes, and decrease in government expenditures, that is how the budget will add up under Romney. I believe that Romney's plan for creating jobs will work. It worked in Massachusetts. At the end of Romney's term, the unemployment rates was in the 4 percent range instead of the 8 percent range like it currently is in the United States.

LMarcT;

What was surprising for me to watch was how "out-of-touch" President Obama seemed. Several times as Romney was rebutting one of Obama's points - Obama actually stood there shaking his head in agreement (this as Romney was pointing out that Obama's point was flawed). I don't know if Romney actually looked that Presidential but rather that Obama looked so UN-PRESIDENTIAL! He's been POTUS for almost 4-years and he COULD NOT defend his record against any rebuttal from Romney.

That is NOT LEADERSHIP!!!!!!!

Independent Reasoning

My wife said the same thing... that Obama seemed distracted, a little "harried", and... "older"... tired. I was traveling so only heard it on the radio.

You have to wonder whether that was just a strategy to let Romney hang himself (a trap candidates fall into when they're leading), or that he was just taking the high road only to come back swinging with new found ammunition for the remaining debates, or that he truly was distracted and bothered by something else.

I guess all we can do is wait and see.

sleuth

OK, I appreciate your concern and respect for the flag, but you miss the point. You seem to be straining to see something wrong where it isn't. Yes, you should investigate what is going on.

But, thinking for a minute that Romney was going to do something disrespectful goes miles to say that you have been listening to the wrong people's opinions. Repeating the question about it for sometime in multiple posts without using several search engines isn't appropriate.

I read many your post, they opinion based on someone's interpretation of the facts. They scream as how superior you feel you are. Sorry, but the cold facts do not support your suppositions.

LMarcT;

I recorded the entire debate and this morning went back and watched it in it's entirety twice...once with sound on and once with sound off.

If this was some kind of a trick or maneuver that President Obama was playing - I think it backfired miserably on him.

I think that most "Undecided's" are trying to determine who is the MORE "Presidential". Based on last nights debate, I think almost anyone willing to be honest would say that it was Romney.

Personally I think both are extremely WEAK in the LEADERSHIP department but I realize that I have to "hold my nose" and cast my vote for one or the other. As I've said above, based on last nights debate - my vote would be for Romney.

Not saying that it will stay that way, but Obama has to do a lot to fix the hole he dug himself into with last night's performance (or should I say lack-there-of) for my vote at least.

I am very tired of hearing about the middle class. In my opinion there are only two classes, first class and no class. First class is ALL who do and are willing to work . No class is those who stand around with their hands out. Thomas Jefferson said it all: "when you give to those who don't, they won't"
.

Bob Raz

Obama was like a deer in headlights without his teleprompter. He's run the country the same was he performed in the debate...... Someone else has been pulling the strings. He's not capable of running anything. He's a mere puppet. Without a script written by someone else he can't think.

You're kidding me right? How soon we forget the Texas Village Idiot and his neo-conservative handlers. Do you remember that Dick Cheney was assigned the task of identifying Bush's running mate...and chose himself? You don't remember who actually ran the country for 8 years? You're ok with that entire group Bush/Cheney/Rumsfeld//Rove/Libby/ and the rest of the neo-conservatives? You'd like to see them return to power? Well guess who Romney hired as his foreign policy advisers...none other than Bush's former foreign policy advisers. Is that really what you want for this country?

first class and no class. First class is ALL who do and are willing to work .

No, you're the person with NO CLASS.

Willing to work, able to work and able to find work are completely different things and most fall into the latter 2 not the first.

@Steve Herbert...

Don't you know? Our INCOME taxes actually pay for one thing...interest to the Federal Reserve Bank...

Oh, where do I begin?

It doesn't change anything for me. I will still be voting for President Obama.

The new, right of right, GOP scares me. Their "my way or the highway" attitude and religious right ideology is NOT what the founding fathers had in mind and I believe they will lead us down the road to fascism.

"When fascism comes to America it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross." Sinclair Lewis

Obama/Biden 2012

nah, unless you count fast food or min wage at Marriott...

Yep Willard is a saint alright! Why most American job creators are regarded as "pioneers of outsourcing". After all, he seemed pretty confident he couldn't get a tax deduction for sending jobs overseas, as he boldly proclaimed tonight, that he had never heard of that one. You know if Mitt can get a tax cut, he's going to take it, especially when he's sending American jobs overseas! He definitely knows that tax strategy!

I Agree

Kurt, Romney hasn't worked for Bain since before he became MA governor in 2003. He has been running for president since 2007. What jobs has he created that Obama is taking credit for? Obama can take credit for jobs created in 2009 onward. Oh, you mean the gardeners, cooks, and maids at Romney's estates and the construction works building his car elevator. No, I don't think Obama is trying to take credit for those.

@Tom, its not a tax break, but a subsidy. Here is how it works. A company lays off 1000 workers and outsources their jobs overseas to improve profits. Those 1000 US workers no longer have good paying jobs and cease to pay any income tax (Or a lower tax rate if they have to take a lower paying job)as they have no income. Many of those workers may also qualify for all those entitlements Republicans are so upset at. Less taxes coming in plus more going out in assistance equals a loss for the Govt and thereby you and me. So to sum it up the US public and Govt subsidize those increased profits from companies who outsource.

Tom-1076479

One of the many ways that our tax system is broken is that it actually encourages and rewards U.S. corporations to make job-creating investments overseas even if similar investments in the United States—absent tax considerations—would be more profitable.

This perverse incentive stems from a feature of our tax system known as “deferral.” Under deferral, U.S. corporations pay taxes on their domestic profits in the year they are earned, but can delay paying taxes on their foreign profits for many years, or even indefinitely. Deferral is a valuable benefit because foreign profits can compound free of U.S. tax until they are “repatriated,” or brought back to the United States (at which point the corporation is allowed a credit for foreign taxes paid).

The disparate treatment between domestic and foreign profits means that the U.S. tax code makes moving investment abroad more attractive. Economist Martin Sullivan of Tax Analysts explains:

Under current law, if an American corporation opens a factory in Indiana, the profits of that factory are subject to the 35 percent U.S. corporate tax rate. If the same corporation instead opens a similar factory in Ireland, the profits from that factory are subject to a 12.5 percent tax rate [Ireland’s corporate tax rate]. If that factory generates a profit of $100, the choice is between an after-tax profit of $65 in the United States and $87.50 in Ireland. Obviously, U.S. tax law provides a large tax advantage for building and moving factories to low-tax countries

Do we all understand now?

Learn more about this at:

http://www.americanprogressaction.org/issues/economy/report/2012/07/16/11935/romneys-new-tax-incentive-for-outsourcing-u-s-jobs/

If elected, Romney will behave as he did in Massachussetts; intiate one plan (i.e. romneycare, which passed because Democrats supported enhanced medical care for years) and skip town. He'll go on the worldwide road to complain how very hard it is to be POTUS, because all those mean liberals and 47%ers hurt his little feelings. He ran for MA Governor ONLY to get national exposure, then promptly trashed the Commonwealth at every turn. Highly likely he'd to the same to America, as he endeavors to make Bain/himself even larger and wealthier. Mr. Flippity would denounce The Sainted Ann, mother of his 5 sons; grandmother to their 18 grandbabies, as the Whore of Babylon if it would enrich himself and Bain.

To all who thinks he cares about the Middle Class, never mind the poor souls at the bottom of the 47%, you are deluding yourselves into believing that he'll hire you as his garage elevator operators. Best wishes and see your mental health provider.

You're wrong Sleuth23. Romney did state specific (although he tried not to). He said his middle of the road talk of this past week was total BS. He said that, not only does he intend to continue the Bush Tax Cuts for the Wealthy, but he intends to give the rich another 20% tax break on the backs of the middle class. He also said he intends to end Social Security and Medicare for those now 55. He further said that he intends to give even more money to his defense-contractor buddies than they've been getting for the past 10 years, even though we're no longer at war. ROmney is a snake-oil salesman. he speaks pretty and is a good debater, but you must read between the lines of everything he says, because he lies like a rug. Bottom line is that he intends to do everything he promised his 1% Tea Party buddies. He intends to complet Bush's attempt to destroy the American middle-class. He intends to kill off our seniors. He intends to make this a country of economic slaves. Unfortunately, President Obama has the worlds most powerful nation to run as well as campaign. So he's not getting enough sleep or enough debate prep. Too many American's are stupid and fall for glitz. President Obama has to be glitzy the next time. He should feel completely free to lie just as much as Romney. He must fight this battle on the terms Romney set. Don't be nice. Don't be polite. Stop acting like a Democrat. Say it like it is. Romney intends to destroy America and enslave it citizens. SAY IT! Yell it right into Romney's face.

Tyler,

you are such a conservative - liberal!

1. You are suspended for a day for violation of rule number 0, customer always right!
2. If you feel rule #1 disagreed, see rule #0.

Romney won the debate hands down. Unemployment reat drops by number of part=time jobs filled. Bogus stats. Real unemployment rate is in the teens. Jay

How can a non-incumbant offer specifics. I don't remember specifics from Obama 4 years ago except a bunch of promises he didn't keep. He can't run on his record, so all he has is to try and paint Romney negatively. Granted, Romney has helped him with that, but tonight Romney owned the stage. Even Bill Maher & Chris Matthews agree with that.

It is very easy to offer specifics, dont your remember during the debate Romney said, Pres. Obama stated during his previous campaign before he was elected "that he would not raise taxes on citizens". That was a specific--in case you didn't know. All Romney supporters have selective memory loss.

Unless you are unaware Romney also stated that he would not raise taxes on middle class, also specific?

Um, Romney turned around the Salt Lake Olympics. It was bankrupt when he was asked to take it over. They US Olympic committee had no idea what was wrong or how to fix it. Romney had to figure out not only what was wrong, but fix it without firing certain key personel, which actually were part of the problem.

There are very few people you can do this with. The only other persons I can think of who pulled something off this big was Alan Mulally of Ford, or Lee Iacocca of Chrysler.

DB Akron...

Don't forget to add that he turned around the Salt Lake Olympics with federal money. One of those details you missed again.

Sleuth

He obtained what others have done in the past, that the inept original management didn't know about, didn't even try to get.

@DB Akron

"He obtained what others have done in the past, that the inept original management didn't know about, didn't even try to get."

There is the real problem with politics on both sides. Scream at the other side for using Govt money but neglect to remember doing it themselves.
Both sides do this.

Now for a partisan shot. Wow Romney saved the Olympics by finding federal funding. He didnt fix it, he got the big bad Govt to fix it. This is a type of action that is attributed to liberals and is decried by the right.

It seemed to me Obama was as confused as most people seem to be, as nothing Romney said tonight was anything he has said for his entire campaign. He completely contradicted the majority of his right wing views, and ignored providing any more details about his plans to pay for his tax cut. In other areas he seemed to support what Obama has already accomplished. He did remain completely consistent in one area though, he flip flopped and lied in nearly every statement he made.

Obama did not do an adequate job of addressing the lies put forth by Romney - with no specifics on which loopholes - or whose loop holes because you can bet it will be stuff like Mortgage interest deductions not like the rate of taxes paid on dividends or capital gains - he would use to off set the tax cuts. So the richest americans get the breaks and the middle class get to pay for them and he says "trust me" If the american people trust this liar they will get exactly what they deserve. Vote in your own best interests - the differences are very clear.

I don't see how anyone can call this a win for Romney when he clearly confiscated the entire debate process. The moderator simply let him do it, not only that but it is hard to debate someone who stands for nothing and is all over the place. A few days ago he had contempt for the 47%, now he loves everybody; tonight he fired the moderator (PBS), but he is concerned about jobs. In interview with David Gregory he said we have a system in place for treating the uninsured and those with preexisting conditions--let them go to emergency room tonight he is embracing some parts of Obamacare--what a joke. This moderator did a poor job of keeping to the issues and time limits but repeatedly allowed Romney more time to speak than the President. Romney must have slipped him a few bucks before the debate began (GOP money dogs). There was no substance to anything that came out of Romney's mouth. He was talking so fast and constantly interrupting because he did not want to forget what he had practiced since August.

Moderators need a button that they can push to turn off the microphone for each candidate while the other is speaking, and also when their time limit is up. This would solve this issues of running over time and interruptions that we always run into. That or just scrap the debate time limit and let them have it out for as long as they'd like.

Romoney spoke con man double talk. "Lower taxes" means "Lower the tax rate". "Rid loopholes" = "Eliminate Deductions". This means "Lower tax rate" less "No Deductions" = "HIGHER Tax Bill". Too bad Obama didn't catch this, nor mention the growth of income the rich have had during the time Romoney pointed out the middle class incomes had regressed. Romoney did not tell how he would see that all states provide healthcare equivalent to Obamacare and Massachusetts, nor did he restate his previous observation that uninsured receive good care by going to the emergency room. Geez, does that work for arthritis, diabetes, CPD, etc? All Romoney said was that he was going to do the same as Obama, only better, and without knowing the details. Obama, obviously did not want to appear to whine about the Republican pact to make him a one term President, and perhaps overwhelmed by the abundance of lies, took the high road, relying on our intelligence to remember who are the 47%, the importance of health care, and to see how Romoney lies.

Draw? Dude what debate did you watch?

Maddcow is having a baby on MSNBC......great theater!

Biden, you're next!

Romney/Ryan 2012

The same one you did apparently. But not with skewed eyes. Mitt was on script.

Agree. Mostly. I think Romney will get a bit of boost credit because he did not tank and because Obama did not really go after him that hard on the flip flops and differences

As noted, useless a total flub the challengers nearly always come out of debate 1 a bit better than the incumbent. Obama could have done much better given all the material and flip flops

I find it very hard to believe that even more tax reductions will change much. As noted even Obama has added more tax reductions during the recession and things are only slowly turning around . There are some fundamental differences in this crash and tier around that will mean that the recovery will not be fast no matter what.

I see the American people as the losers in this debate.

The moderator failed to control both candidates and keep the discussion on subject. In my opinion, Romney bullied his way in this debate keeping the moderator from moving on to the next topic. He wasted time mostly on criticism of President Obama.

As to President Obama, you can see his frustration. The moderator allowed Romney to interrupt repeatedly while he is making a point, which I find rude of Mr. Romney. Reminds me of President Bush II, my point is the only one that matters, you are either for it or against it. No middle ground to get what is good of both sides.

In the end, we did not hear anything different than what we hear as campaign talking points. Selection between the lesser of two evils did not get any better.

What is scary that I hope people realize, if Obama becomes a one term president, we allowed a congress precedent to manipulate how they will function to make an incumbent president look bad to the people to influence our vote, putting party line interest above what is best for the entire nation.

NLBohman I for one was undecided, you see I really did not care for Mitt throughout the whole republican primaries even told my wife that if he was nominated I didn't think I could vote for him. I will admit I began to change my mind when my wife reminded me that we went from a family income of 70,000 to about 14,000 or so this year. I don't see it getting better under Obama, problem was until tonight I didn't think Mitt had any answers either. After the debate I decided that I will vote for Mitt Romney this November he at least honors the Constitution and acts like a leader. I really don't think I have to worry about him bowing to a Saudie either.

It is impossible for me to believe that even more tax cuts and deregulation that brought us to recession will make things better

Given the world economy getting better is going to be slow process and is happening

I just believe Romney and Ryan have a higher chance to make things worse

Darkarkx - And all this came to you in a blazing flash of light after the debate right? Not a minute before?

Dark is the typical repub, going from 70K to 14L (as he claims) couldn't possibly be his responsibility, nope, it's the responsibility of others to make sure he's doing well and he and his wife, by his own admission, are clearly looking for someone else to be responsible FOR them. The ultimate hand outer with no personal responsibility.

What I've been wondering all night is: How many Americans, who will truly go and vote, are still undecided at this point? It just seems so unlikely to me..

I'm one and proud of it!!!!!

After last night, if the election was held today, my vote would go to Romney.

Why?

He showed LEADERSHIP Qualities - Obama DID NOT!!!!!!

IR...you seem to have the terms LEADERSHIP and SOCIOPATHIC mixed up. Obama clearly didn't want to debate a LIAR who changed his stance on virtually EVERY issue 180 degrees in just one week.

gemini;

If one takes the time to go to both www.barackobama.com and www.mittromney.com and actually read their respective "Plans" - one will see that Romney has been saying pretty much the same thing for over 2+ years and Obama's "Plan" is just talking points without any specifics at all. One also might want to check out some Independent candidates sites like Gary Johnson, T.J. O'Hara's, etc. (not that any of them stand a chance but many actually have some VERY GOOD IDEAS!!!!

No gemini...Romney demonstrated LEADERSHIP last night, Obama demonstrated a less-than-PRESIDENTIAL option. The "Sociopath" is simply more talking points from your side-of-the-aisle. Please, this election is TOO important for people to simply follow the sound-bites of their respective party...educate yourselves BEFORE you vote.

Voting for Romney on what basis? Oh, I forget lies and selective amnesia. Why does Romney the magic millionaire need 8 years to repair the ecomony? Why will congress suddenly be willing to work with him and not the current President? Could it be race. Voting for someone simply because they have the same skin color as you is so GOP.

Davied: I wondered when someone was going to bring up the race card. Let it go already, it has nothing to do with race. Obama performed very badly last night, he wasn't bullied by Romney, Romney wasn't rude, in fact I thought Obama was rude. He didn't look at Romney while Romney was talking, yet Romney always looked directly at him. Romney didn't hog the debate, wasn't rude to the moderator, in fact it was Obama who took up an extra 4 mins of time that is why they missed a pod. Desperate Obama supporters always bring up the race card when they have nothing else.

You're right, you can't fire Congress. That's why Romney worked with an 87% Democrat Congress in MA.

The biggest problem is Obama is so full of himself that he won't work in a bipartisan way. Reagan did; Clinton did; Bush did...Obama won't!

Kumar-889209

Really? Obama appointed Republicans to Secretary of Defense, the Army and Transportation. He also appointed Republican Governor Jon Huntsman as our Ambassador to China. And put together 3 different bi-partisan committees to try and tackle the debt.

The reason Romney worked with the his state's Democratic congress was because he was, by today's standards anyway, a liberal when he was governor. He ran to the left of Ted Kennedy when he ran for Senate and passed the precursor to ObamaCare for god sake. The man has no soul and is a complete opportunist. He has flip-flopped on every single issue of importance, often contradicting himself on the same day depending on the audience he's talking to. Obama has done everything possible to work with Congress often even adopting their ideas. As soon as he's for it they're against it and filibuster anything and everything in the Senate.

House repukes would rather keep this whole country in a choke hold than cooperate with Obama on anything. Obama would gladly work with congress, but the opposite doesn't hold true.

don't vote recklessly

Even in England, after the magna Carta was signed, most Kings and Queens understood the value of a "token" appointment from the opposition party. All except Queen Victoria, which the matter caused her great grief with the public and opposition parties.

The republicans in the senate have filibustered more bills than any other administration in the history of the world BY FAR. They filibuster any bill that might make Obama appear he accomplished something, so come election time they can whine about how little Obama has accomplished. Obama has had a very reasonable, straightforward jobs bill that would create more than a million jobs fixing our decrepit infrastructure floundering in the senate for at least a year because the righties filibustered it. They don't give a sh*t about creating jobs, they're only concern is keeping Obama from a 2nd term. They'd rather families lose their homes than allow a jobs bill to pass in the senate. Disgusting. To suggest that Obama hasn't tried to work with congress is laughable. It's the righties in congress who have been as obstructionist as humanly possible. Get a friggin clue kumar.

Don't forget that they also voted AGAINST the Veteran's Jobs bill. The unemployment rate they're trying to blame on Obama is DIRECTLY a result of their own doing.

Wow, I was confused as hell...you could see in the President's face. He knows he's dealing with a hardcore sociopath tonight..this guy has multiple personalities like "Cybil". He put the flip in flop!

This is sad...this guy is the worst kind of sociopath there is...HE BELIEVES HIS OWN LIES. Man, even Dr. Phil would have had a hard time deciphering this guy. Hahahah...seriously, I could post 7 videos of Mitt saying the opposite of what he said tonight. This guy is crazy!

I absolutely agree. How can a honest, decent man like Obama debate with someone like Romney who changes his position like the wind? I was scratching my head in disbelief. Which Romney do you debate? Like a true sociopath, Romney lies with conviction. He never said what he would do with all those people that would end up with no health care after he repeals Obamacare. I don't think he gives a rats ass.

Romney is without a doubt a sociopath. He'll say anything, absolutely anything, to get what he wants.

Romney needs to read the "Federalist Papers", written by John Jay, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton in 1787 and 1788. I cannot believe that Romney thinks America should have 50 separate health care plans. That's as dumb as the fact that he dug a 60 foot hole next to the tide-line at his La Jolla mansion, for his underground garage. This guy was obviously good at running a private equity fund and avoiding taxes, but he hasn't shown me anything else. I don't think he has the grey matter (IQ) to take on the toughest job in the world. At best, he hit a double tonight. He needed a home run. I think he's toast.

You mean insulting the moderator? That kind of work? Mitts had a lot of experience bullying people we shouldn't be so surprised.

If they do, then that means there are alot more idiots in the world who would rather see this country go down the toilet than build this economy back up to pre GEORGE W. BUSH years.

First pf all I am an INDEPENDENT: evaluation of both debaters in the real world of debates is:

First, Mr. Lehr (name spelling not sure) is the worst monitor I've ever seen/heard. His format for this kind of debate was a dismal failure. His questions were not direct enough (too vague and often too broad). He never did push for a direct answer.

Both debaters did poorly:

Obama didn't always come across as focused, or appeared as if his mind were elsewhere. His passive behavior did not pick up on possible openings for rebuttals. He was quite calm with the constant rudeness and interruptions from Romney; but should have chided Romney into following the debate protocol rules set up by the monitor. Obama's answers came across with sincerity and concern for the middles class, elderly, and the less fortunate people. He answered all questions with clarity (but could have provided some more details with one question). Most of his responses stayed within the time guideline allotted, and his responses were consistent. His personal behavior was appropriate for the debate.

As for Romney, he was aggressively rude and condescending to Mr. Lehr and to Pres. Obama. In a real debate you are deducted for not listening or showing respect to the monitor. Romney went over time in all of his responses, and would not stop when requested by the monitor (more points deducted). Romney did not execute his answers with clarity or specifics (or details, and always spoke with generalities- more deductions). Romney contradicted his own responses twice (one with healthcare and the other with taxes). His stage presence came across with rudeness, arrogance, testy, condescending, and total lack of respect for those involved with the debate,and most esp. with the monitor in charge (more deductions for poor conduct displayed.) Yes, he was aggressive, but definitely not in a favorable or admirable way. His behavior displayed, came off irritating and annoying. His concerns for the middle class did not come off as sincere. His answers flip-flop far, far too much on the hour and by the hour. Finally, Romney's rude behavior came across as if he were the monitor, and could have cared less with what Mr.Lehr wanted.

Did the debate change my mind?? No way, would I ever want an inconsistent leader with the qualities and skills that were displayed by Romney tonight. Aggressive behavior does not make for a good and descent leader, anymore than it did with Hitler.

He hasn't changed his views, his views have "evolved". Isn't that what Obama says every time he flip-flops or he blames it on "faulty" intelligence.

His views have "evolved" ?? LMFAO. And this from a RWer who probably doesn't even believe in evolution. Well let's see...Romney's views seem to "evolve" back and forth on a regular basis so frankly you're full of @!$%# and so is he. He clearly changes his stance to whatever he thinks ppl want to hear at the time and will say/do ANYTHING he thinks he has to to win... dishonest or not. He's got to be THE most disingenuous, dishonest candidate in the history of this country.

The country isn't a business. You can't fire citizens. That approach doesn't work.

He got his a$$ beat...why can't everyone just accept it!

Romney said so many things that will come back to bite Romney in the A$$..did you see how the President sit back and let him rant. Let Romney shoot himself in the foot. You can't debate a sociopath...he even agreed with the President on the same things he was against just weeks ago. Wow! this will be the weirdest debates America has ever seen. Romney still skated through his specifics...hahahah . 47% will be brought up in the last debate to make that all out lasting impression...the President is letting Romney toss out all his weapons early...just wait till the last debate. The coffin will close on Mitt!

Uh, Kumar? The US State Department was quoted in Bloomberg back in February - once built the permanent jobs may be as few as 20. The figure you are quoting is man hours in temporary positions during the construction, not permanent jobs. Even the company, TransCanada Corp, has said the permanent jobs will be barely over 100 and many of them are just transfers from elsewhere in the company, not NEW employment.

I assume you don't know that the US Chamber of Commerce is not a bipartisan, i.e. impartial observer in this process and is a conservative think-tank. Why don't you come up with independent numbers on the Keystone pipleine? As per an independent study conducted by the Cornell ILR Global Labor Institute the Keystone XL would result in 2,500 to 4,650 temporary construction jobs, this impact will be reduced by higher oil prices in the Midwest which will likely reduce national employment. (from wikipedia). If these are temp jobs, they are not going to have much impact on anything. One could argue that the Labor Institute should be for labor force increase and would not necessarily be less biased than the US Chamber of Commerce, but atleast they are putting their methodology of analysis out there for others to check out rather than hand-waving or claiming proprietary analysis methods that cannot be revealed (as the Perryman Group have done).

Hey Murph, doesn't it bother you that Romney has not said how how he would accomplish any of his grand designs. He says just "Trust me". Like BOHICA!!

So you are going to vote for the guy that looks happy? You will probably change your mind after the next debate then.

Birds of a feather--you are in the 1%?

Mr. Businessman what does Romney do as a business man that you like. Insult people. Businessmen usually are detailed and will give you facts. Romney will give you no facts. The debate actually nailed down some things like not reducing taxes for the rich which he will have to stick to now until he changes his mind. The debate started, Obama will use it everyday. Hopefully the media will play substance as in what Mitt has said in the past with the debate. YOu can't run on something for months and hope no one is paying attention so you do a switcheroo. We have videos now for people who don't use their memories like they should. After a couple of days I think people will realize Obama did much better thanthey thought at first. This was a debate not a slug fest, not a time to insult the president by saying he needs an accountant. Mitch are you up for the job? I think Obama did great holding his own showing the nice steady hand of a president not the nice steady insult, glares or whatever they were from the rich bully who hasn't even figured out what he is going to do let alone what the country is going to do.

Now that I think of it... I believe this was strategic GENIUS on Obama's part. He sat back, calmly, cooley and collectively and just gave Romney the rope he's going to hang himself with later. Let's see how he's going to backpeddle on the 30+ outright LIES factcheckers caught in just the first HALF of the debate.

Romney's digging himself a ditch and I can't wait to see Obama push him in and bury him at the end :)

Can we drop the little talking point that Obama lost as part of some great strategy? He fell for his own media hype and thought that he could walk over Romney without any preparation on the force of his personality alone. It didn't work and he was clearly baffled and eventually quite pissed off by the situation.

Let us look back to history. Who gave the illegals amnesty. A Democrat for votes? Check history bud. It was Ronald Reagan. And then he just let them keep coming and coming. I don't buy the let them in for votes unless that is a republican thing. You have to keep your mind on history and reality. Why do think Obama is deporting them at record numbers? Deporting for votes or for law and order? check your facts, Check history and vote Obama 2012. I think he won no matter what anyone else says. I guess I just am not looking for who trampled who the most. Lets see he had a lot of zingers too. Never mind what you stood for the last 18 months. Did you catch that. ON Msnbc last night they were rather hard on Obama but every clip they played showed why Obama won. I don't think they knew what they were actually doing.

Obama had some good idea's and plans to get America back on track. I only wish the president of the country the last THREE years had some of those ideas and made them work. Oh, wait......

The Big Lie (German: Große Lüge) is a propaganda technique. The expression was coined by Adolf Hitler, when he dictated his 1925 book Mein Kampf, about the use of a lie so "colossal" that no one would believe that someone "could have the impudence to distort the truth so infamously."

I can't remember a Republican dominating the debate so thoroughly since Reagan vs Carter in the 1980 election. Obama was long winded and rambling, while Romney was concise and to the point. No matter who you're voting for, if you watched the debate, you have to admit the President sounded like he didn't want to be there and was just trying to "run out the clock" with long, rambling answers. If I hear his "Uhhhhhhhhhmmmm...", again, I'm going to turn down the sound on the TV.

Loud fast talking rambling while saying a whole lot of nothing is all it takes to get you all giddy huh Reformed. Not surprised, low information folks such as yourself are always distracted and gravitate to shiney things. LOL

How can anyone not already know who their voting for regardless of the debates?

Don't bogart that joint, my friend, pass it over to me. Roll another one, just like the other one, you've been hanging on to it and I sure would like a hit

Mitt definitely brought his A-game tonight. I thought Obama was way too passive and let Mitt get away with a lot of bull@!$%#.

This debate will definitely sway those who have not been paying attention as Mitt literally had his etch a sketch moment. He essentially said 180 degrees the opposite of what he has been saying since the first GOP debate and beyond.

My vote for President Obama has not changed, however, if he has another passive debate like tonight's he is going to lose the election.

JM

Yes, you are on point. For those who are already committed, this debate will not make a change.

But with the Election having a 3% spread with Obama ahead, the 13% undecided will determine the outcome.

And for the Obama base it is eroding. Now they have 4 yrs of performance to see what his Promises of CHANGE really mean ... many have LEFT and more are confused and becoming more UNDECIDED.

Obama has more to LOSE, because of his RECORD which unlike 2008 is OPEN.

Romney was so happy and peppy tonight I know I could trust him with my social security...wait...

Just noted that, at this time, 19% of respondents to this poll have said that the debate "made them more likely to vote for Obama." Which only proves that those 19% apparently slept through the entire debate. As Bill Maher has tweeted, "I guess it's true that Obama always needs a teleprompter." (And as you know, he's the same Maher who kicked a million big ones into Obama's campaign.) You can pick apart the content of the debate all you want and you'll still have to conclude that Romney kicked Obama's ass. POTUS looked and sounded scared, tired, cornered, confused, and more.

LOL Carl... there is no LIE Romney can tell to make us change our minds. Tonight he was a VERY successful LIAR. That's all. And Obama was probably just fed up w/having to debate a sociopath who can't distinguish between his lies and reality. How do debate someone who is completely dishonest and changes his ideas/opinions on a daily basis ? No matter what Obama said, Romney would come back with some preposterous fabrication. It was pointless.

Romney tossed out lots of big numbers that just do not add up. As Clinton said, "its just arithmetic." It was after all, the Republicans under Bush that drove the economy into the ground giving big tax cuts to the rich and fighting two wars on borrowed money. Why would we trust them now?

Romney is an arrogant sleaze. He was disrespectful to the moderator and continually talked out of turn. Not voting for him!

Utah soccer mom. Yip I think later people will look back and see how unpresidential Romney was in his attempt to get heard. And at the very end he was rattling while Obama was waiting for the referee to kick in. Off on Libya or something that had nothing to do with this debate. If you want disrespect, secrecy, to be misled, go for Romney. That isn't even getting to the fact he has a running mate which he chose that uses russian athiest economic policies. That is what Ryan said himself. Obama needs to bring up patriotic economic policies more. Plus the fact Mitch sent our jobs to China in the 90's. A pioneer of that. Hmm. I would rather vote for a pioneer for America myself. I did see an article this morning which was heartening. China doesn't own as much of our debt as once thought and Mitch intimated and the article said it was reducing that. Only 8% and shrinking. America owns the rest. 92% or about that is. Good for us. Too bad Mitch doesn't think that investing in America is important. Heck he could own 8% of the debt if he wanted. Maybe he does and just doesnt; want us to know, He could couldn't he? It is dangerous cause we don't know what and who he has invested in but he has never said he was invested in the America people has he. I am still solidly an exrepublican for Obama.

What "patriotic economic policies" are you alluding to? Please enlighten us! Also, what's the source for your comment that China only owns 8% of our debt and that % is getting smaller? The one believable statement you make is that you are an ex-republican. Ask President Obama's jobs guru -- the CEO of GE -- about moving jobs overseas. He's the expert!!