Like many, I was dismayed at the outcome of the first debate. It was not so much that Romney won with his blustering style, but that Obama looked like a deflated punching bag. If Obama had put forth gusto, it could have ended up being perceived at least as a 'draw'. Yes, Obama made numerous key points, but unfortunately, his presentation did not capture the imagination of the general audience. By 'general audience', I don't mean the savvy political junkies of DKos.
It felt like I was watching a football game when Team Obama was leading a disarrayed Team Romney 27-7 in the second half and seemingly on a way to a walkover victory. Suddenly in early fourth quarter, Team Romney scores two quick touchdowns to make it 27-21. Momentum has changed! Team Obama is still ahead, but victory is no longer certain. Playing prevent defense did not help matters any.
As disappointed and nervous as I am at what's happening, I remain hopeful for this is not over. What matters is how Obama handles the aftermath and go forth from here. That is the key, not the first debate or how people are fixating on it. One thing he must do is inspire the masses.
That's what truly hurt Obama in the first debate: he was not inspirational. Romney, as much as he bullshitted through his teeth, came across as 'motivating' for many folks. Hollow and all that...but most people are not astute observers and are impressed by how a person presents oneself. Looking weak and uninspired leaves many feeling against the person who comes across as such.
I've done well in most job interviews, because I came across as personable, aware, alert, and hungry to do the job and be with the people involved in this job. There were a couple of interviews that did not go so well. It did not help that I was not fully focused and came across as shaky in my interview performance. One time the HR called me to basically say that they had concerns about my presentation, but wanted to figure out what to work out. In short, they were wanting to hire me, but I needed to give them a reason to justify this. Likewise, Obama needs to show that he wants this and inspire the people who want to believe in him.
I believe that Obama is more than capable of reversing his current fortunes as he has done in the past. Time is tight here, so this will need to happen quickly. Fortunately, there are numerous venues for this. First, the Obama team wasted no time putting this debate behind them and going full charge with hard-hitting ads and stump speeches. Second, 'deux ex machina' came in the form of positive jobs report last Friday. Without that good news, it would have been much harder. Whew! Third, there are more debates coming up. Given that so many people tune in to watch them, it is critical that Obama connects with the people. Assume that Romney will still be on his A-game. Obama can only do what he can for himself during the debates. He will connect with the viewers if he draws from his strength and heart to inspire...to make people believe that he is the man for the job to lead a nation!
Obama, just go from your heart and inspire as you very well can.