Thursday, September 30, 2004
Once again George Bush has won the pre-debate expectations game. The premise of this debate is that the pressure is squarely on John Kerry to show something special tonight.
If Kerry can give a coherent and concise statement about Iraq, on his first try, he has a chance to take control of the debate. And if he gets traction on Iraq, the debate will take on a serious tone that will make Bush's nervous cackle and prepared zingers seem inappropriate and desperate.
The undecided voters and lukewarm Bush supporters are waiting for Kerry to show that he is a serious leader for a serious time. Tonight is his last best chance to establish himself as that leader.
If Kerry can give a coherent and concise statement about Iraq, on his first try, he has a chance to take control of the debate. And if he gets traction on Iraq, the debate will take on a serious tone that will make Bush's nervous cackle and prepared zingers seem inappropriate and desperate.
The undecided voters and lukewarm Bush supporters are waiting for Kerry to show that he is a serious leader for a serious time. Tonight is his last best chance to establish himself as that leader.
