Honest assessment of the debate..


Trump did what he needed to do to stop the bleeding, but his responses were the typical word salad we have come to expect. No defendant taking the stand for sexual assault accusations anywhere in America will invoke ISIS as part of their argument. He played up to his supporters. He didn't do anything to reach those who are on the fence. He is still behind and will continue to trail all the way to the finish line. Trump's inability to shut the [BLEEP] up was something that has been viewed as a black mark against debate candidates my entire life. Talking over candidates has been construed as being rude and has cost other candidates points. His supporters seem to adore it. If this is a sample of his debate skills, the American people should be petrified when he needs to sit down with foreign leaders.


Hillary was more passive than she needed to be. She seemed rattled at times. She could've taken the opportunity to put the election away, and missed some openings. She was on the defensive more than she was during the first debate, but seemed to make a stronger case she would care for Americans of all backgrounds than Trump.


All in all.. I thought it was a wash. I don't think either person won. Trump didn't do as awful as he could have, but talked in circles. If you're going to take extra time after they tell you to stop, don't just repeat what you have already said three times. Hillary didn't land the knockout and taking the high road doesn't mean you don't stand up for yourself. I think she could have earned points by saying, "can I say anything without you talking over me like an impatient child?" Having Anderson Cooper repeatedly say "she isn't talking over you" makes it look like she cannot defend herself. I don't think either candidate really changed anyone's mind on who they will vote for. The national embarrassment continues.

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