GANDALF AND SARUMAN DEBATE ON CBS
Governor Walz and Senator Vance Perform a Minuet Onstage
Opinions on who won the vice-presidential debate appear to reflect the partisan divide rather than thoughtful, objective analysis. In my view (hopefully thoughtful and objective), Governor Walz prevailed on substance, while Sen. Vance prevailed on style.
Walz wended his way through the weeds of policy, earnestly drawing on his experience as coach, teacher, congressman, and governor. On the other hand, by exhibiting a veneer of normalcy, Vance accomplished his primary assignment: to take the sting out of the "weird" epithet and distract voters from Trump's mounting discombobulation and venom, thereby holding the Republican base in place. “Oozing charm from every pore,” Vance “oiled his way across the floor,” smoothly evading nearly all questions on substance through disinformation, deflection, and "damning non-answers" while appearing collegial and reasonable.
Both contenders met the basic needs of their respective bases while disappointing the more bloodthirsty elements on both sides, lusting for a cage fight. I'd be surprised if the needle moved much, if at all.
Most commenters on the debate used "style" for Vance's plus side. I prefer the term "presentation". Style imparts a positive connotation, and there is NOTHING positive about Vance. Walz was not as forceful as he can be, that was a minus. But he sailed in substance. When picking a partner in life, style and presentation are not usually at the top of the list. Neither should they be for a veep.
Where was the attack on Vance, until the last 5 minutes?
Walz should have begun by asking Vance to get on his knees and ask the citizens of Ohio whom he represents for forgiveness for lying about Haitians eating pets, and Vance's inability to face the consequences of Trump's attempted coup. If Vance could not get on his knees and ask for forgiveness, Walz should have said, "Why spent the rest of the hour and a half listening to a liar? I'm sure we all have more important things to do," and he should have left the pseudo-debate at once, leaving the camera on Vance's bizarre attempt at smiling.
Aren't we beyond civility with these criminals?