Michael P. Riccards

Presidential Scholar

While the polls tell us that the presidential candidates are very close, nonetheless the Hall Institute website responses to the debates show that viewers were overwhelming impressed by Obama.

He was seen as more organized, more informed, more intellectually coherent, able to energize the party base on the Iraq war, more knowledgeable about the causes of the Wall Street crisis, and more presidential looking. Still some of the viewers were not impressed by either one, arguing that they did not deal with the issues that are of concerned to average Americans.

Viewers were much less impressed by Palin than by Biden, citing frequently his experience and many were surprised that she exceeded expectations and felt she held her own. Some were concerned about Governor Palin succeeding to the presidency because of her superficial but folksy ways.

It appears that public policy wonks are likely to be more liberal in general, wanting more informed and intense discussions of issues. It may also be that New Jersey is just more liberal than America in general (which we know is true), or that Hall Institute readers are more pro-Obama at this time. In either case, Obama draws well at 130 West State Street, lower floor!

Richard A. Lee

As always, the numbers only tell part of the story. Several trends and themes were evident in the content of the postings themselves. Some followed the talking points, charges and counter-charges that have characterized much of the campaign to date.

On President Bush:
John McCain continues to offer nothing new but a rehashing of the same failed policies of the past eight years under George W. Bush.

On whether Obama has enough substance:
Obama presents a polished image with good debating skills and is sincere in his approach, making him very appealing to the general populace. However, take away all that and I believe one is left with an empty suit.
Obama is a very persuasive speaker, though rhetoric just doesn't seem to compare to a successful track record on these matters.

On the McCain’s campaign:
I am disappointed in what this campaign has done to McCain, having always found him to be honorable and forthright, even when I disagreed with him on policy issues. Now I don't find him trustworthy or honorable, and I fear this will forever change how he is viewed.

On Palin, pro and con:
I find it difficult to believe we are considering this woman for Vice President. She did nothing but regurgitate talking points with a happy grin on her face. She had nothing to add and any time she was asked a question on which she didn't have notes, she pointedly ignored it. It's embarrassing...More>