NO question, Romney was on point, upbeat, offered his own ideas while the other guy just tried to paint Romney in a negative light. Plus, what was up with Jim Lehrer? He interrupted Romney a bunch of times, while he let the other guy go on and on and on.

Romney won by a landslide.

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I agree that Romney was much stronger, when I expected Obama to be the tougher debater. The other big issue was the debate moderation, or lack thereof. Jim Lehrer looked like he couldn't keep a pair of chihuahua puppies under control!

Obama's performance last night was very similar to that of his first term in office...uninspiring. And what is so ironic is all of the stories that I have read in the last few weeks as to how Obama has been training vigorously for this debate. But unfortunately for Obama, there is no amount of training nor charismatic banter that can cover up how the last four years, this country is in worse fiscal shape than it was four years ago.

It's time for real change, and Mitt Romney proved that he is more than capable of turning this country around and being a strong president.

Romney didn't state one thing he would actually do... He flopped on all the principles he was running on this entire campaign. Obama spoke with grace and intelligence informing everyone exactly what he believes to be right and how it works. Romney states that he will just leave it to the states... And that he will "sit down with dems and reps and solve partisanship" he just says things that sound very appealing while Obama breaks down how all his plans work. Obama won on every talking point,

Romney Wins Round #1!

Lands a knockdown: “Trickle down Government...” vs Obama's lame “economic patriotism”.

I thought Obama looked like he'd taken something to stay alert, and that about 45 minutes into the event it was wearing off – visibly.

Mitt looked energetic, poised, statesmanlike and presidential.

Obama looked defensive, whipped, petty, and tired, as if he couldn't wait to be 'retired'. Could it be he's found that actually DOING a job is a lot tougher than talking about it?

I thought Romney won going away and I was surprised. I stated many times I am not a Romney fan and I am wavering between none of the above and Romney for my vote. Last night Romney won my vote. He had the facts, he had the plan and he had the vision I have been looking for him to elaborate on.

I believe his biggest hit of the night was when President Obama said Romney didn't give details. Romney came back with the perfect answer for any level headed manager. He said I will lay out the plan and sit down with the House and Senate leaders to iron out the details. He then pointed out Obama's biggest gaff in his Presidency, jamming Obamacare down the throats of Congress. He didn't act like a partner, he acted like a dictator.
This struck me because I too am a manager and many times I want to go into meetings and say "here is what we are going to do, now do it" and walk out. That approach works for about 5 seconds and loses all in the room. A good leader/manager opens a meeting with "we need to get from A to M and it needs to happen in X months. How do we get there?". He/she then listens to all sides and makes the final decision and explains why. That keeps all invested and engaged.

Romney won for Republicans, Obama won for Democrats. Did I miss anything?

Who is Mr 0 more upset with this morning:

- the person who told him you can take tax deductions for moving a plant overseas
or
- the person picking the dog looser green energy companies?

Mr 0 is out of his league, he has no record to defend. I can't wait for gas bag Joe to get his (after all: the middle class has been "buried" during the past four years) and then the debate on foreign policy.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505245_162-57525057/biden-middle-class-buried-the-last-4-years/

It was as if Romney was debating an empty chair...great job John Kerry on getting Obama ready!

I think many are shocked by the debate performances because we've been fed by the left and media how wonderful Obama is in everything, including debates - seeing him live tells a different reality. Unfortunately in this state substance means nothing, as long as the candidate has a D next to their name, they've got a majority vote. Sad really.

Romney still will not reveal which tax deductions he plans on on removing. My fear is that he wants to get rid of the mortgage interest deduction and reduce the child dependent credit. He may have won the debate but unless he gives specifics on his tax plan, he will not win the election.

I thought it was a good debate, however we found out that Mr. Obama cannot talk without a tele-prompter telling him what to say. He looked like he wanted NOT to be there. Mr. Romney had all the numbers, had all the responses and was energenic. There is no doubt in my mind that they are both nice family men, but you have to have more than that to be President. Mr. Obama has not been prepared for four years and he is not prepared for four more. He has been, in my opinion in over his head from the beginning. I cannot wait for the Biden- Ryan debate next week!!!

Obama must have consumed a bad burrito just before the debate. The man did not look happy. It's difficult to make Jimmy Carter look less bad (not good), but we've seen it... nearly four years of it.

Reverend E. Raleigh Pimperton III

Amazing turn of events. I guess it is true that the President is only as good as his teleprompter. I really believed it would be the other way around. Only those totally partisan would even begin to think this one was close. The President was absent and dissapointing. This is a real problem for him as what in the world can he say about Foreign policy as again only a partisan would give him anything better than a C on that and it looks to be falling apart yesterday Turkey bombed Syria. Nobody of serious mind thinks he has done a credible job in the middle east.

Andrew,
May I make a suggestion before this chain goes over the 50 mark, as it well may. Will the patch consider the elimination of the reply button or allow people to re-sort the comments in chronological order. It is tough to follow the reply to replies and the out of order sequence. Just a thought.

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We need to remember elections are won with 270 Electorial votes not the " perception or interpretation "
Debates are Visual ... Mitt Romney accomplished just by being on stage with the President of the United States.
And any reasonable person would agree that Romney won the debate, and there are two more debates.
I think a lot of Pres. Obama's supporters were disappointed that he was not as aggressive.
Republican supporters for mitt Romney should be very pleased... How ever the President is well liked and Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney is not well-liked.
And I think Pres. Obama's advisers will tell him to take the gloves off ... The president had a Ample
opportunity to deck mitt Romney but instead
took the punches ... I'm certain that we will see a full retaltory response from Pres. Obama the next time they
enter the arena only this time ... 47% - and the undercover video statements by Mitt Romney, so if Republicans want a knockdown drag out fight ... Then let's give them one.
No more Mr. nice Pres.... "everyone has a plan unto you get a punch in the face" Mike Tyson

Jim Lehrer was all over Romney cause he knows he will be unemployed as soon as Romney dumps PBS.

Neither candidate will solve our problems. Each candidate will create more & different problems in the long run. At this time change will be good for our country right or wrong, Why?? Because the incumbent isn't doing us any good.

One more thing!!!!!!!!!!!

Between the two candidates they are expected to spend 1 BILLION dollars while running for office. If they're so concerned with jobs how many people would that chunk of wasted money put to work???????????????

Romney won easily.. The president showed the American people what he really is, an empty suit. He showed his complete ignorance on how the economy works, and was given a lesson in economics 101 by Romney. It gets pretty bad when Bill Maher tweeted “I can't believe i'm saying this, but Obama looks like he DOES need a teleprompter.”

Romney did very well.

Unfortunately, both parties are no more than two rival gangs that care more about the gang and the money that come into the gang than the people.

WOW, someone will soon find them-self under the BIG LIBERAL BUS

http://townhall.com/tipsheet/katiepavlich/2012/10/03/chris_matthews_has_an_epic_meltdown_after_obama_loses_debate

THUMP

Tom, where do you think the candidates spend their campaign dollars? Hotels, gas stations, restaurants, tv and radio stations, advertising agencies, etc. Seems to me they are putting lots of people to work.

No question that Romney won the debate. More importantly, he revealed a full grasp of the economy and business environment which Obama clearly does not have. Rhetoric brought Obama onto the national stage and American disappointment won him the presidency. What we saw last night, is that rhetoric has a short shelf life when responded to with substantive fact.

Does this mean The Chosen One will no longer be able to halt the ocean's rise?

Reverend E. Raleigh Pimperton III

I think last nigth Obama proved the people right who have said for 4 years that when he doesn't have a teleprompter he's lost. Whenever Romney spoke he just looked down and nodded his head. At one point he reminded me of a bobblehead doll. It made him look like he agree with everything Romney said. The moderator was terrible. Every so often you could hear him make a sound like he wanted to break in and stop someone but didn't. And in my opinion Obama took much more time than Romney to say less. One of his answers was so long and rambling and made so little sense I thought Obama had completely checked out. Maybe he should have actually prepared instead of telling people that preparing was 'a drag'.

Romney and it wasn't close..Obama proved to be the inept, distant, amateur empty suit that he is...only the delusional would be inspired by his drivel.

WOW, I almost feel bad for Mr 0, NOT!

Smirk: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=dKMUHcgsbag

Bobby V you had to GO but couldn't you wait a day ;) you took the beating off the top of the GLOBB website. Even there it is UGLY, the poll "Which candidate had the better performance in the first presidential debate?":

Romney 74%
Mr 0 15%
neither 7%
impressed by both 4%

Completely smoked Obama last night...no doubt about it...It could be the beginning of the end, next up Biden to get completely smoked next week!!!!...Honestly I didn't think Romney had that in him...it was perfect and if you disagree then you are lying to yourself.

Ive learned a long time ago you never win discussing politics and religion. What I did see was In my mind maybe Obama was holding back so Mitt Romney would put his foot in mouth. Just stay calm and vote for ROM but if you love your MaMa vote foe Obama !

Where's Diana the Obama sychophant? Love to hear her take on this one.

Is there anything better than seeing the anointed one stammer and stutter to get a complete sentence out? A media creation upheld by 8 teleprompters looks clueless on his own. No wonder this narcissistic egomaniac won't release his grades..I would bet they aren't top of the class...saw a tufts professor today riding one of those sit down bikes..ponytail...grizzly beard..flip flops with a warren sign and Obama sign on his bike...tried my best to get a pic but couldn't..yelled out how'd last night go for ya and he wouldn't even look at me. Sad that my educated informed vote is negated by these kind of "intellectuals"

Let's see. Romney says he is not going to increase our taxes, instead, he proposes a 20% tax decrease across the board. To balance his proposed rate decrease, he says he will reduce the available deductions on the tax return. If I now cannot deduct my mortgage and my health expenses, it increases my tax liability. Isn't this a tax INCREASE for me? I guess there are enough stupid people around to
applaud Romney's proposal.

Are you guys done beating each other off yet or what? Jesus, I haven't seen this much whooping, hollering and high-fiving since high school when the cheerleaders TP'ed the football captain's house.

Liberals like taxes as long as someone else is paying them.

Romney with a KO. No teleprompter no answers from Barry I guess.

Romney's plan to close the mortgage deduction loop hole is only one way he will get you from behind. In 2013 the fine in MA for not being able to afford health care is upwards to $1260 per year. That fine will double when all states join in the so called Romney Care.

Bob: Right :-) Romney care is only in MA. BUT, FL & MI are preparing the same HC plan under the same guidelines. As soon a Romney can he will dump Obama Care and allow each state to own & operate as an insurer. All states can't wait to make money off the poor the same as MA does. Romney plan is "Give to the rich & take from the poor".

Bob, you are awesome! Well said, all of it!

Did you hear/see Mr 0 that petulant child yesterday, Mitt lied, Mitt is after big bird, if you are going to be president you owe the American people the truth, ...

Did you hear the excuses for his poor debate, he did not prepare, it was the altitude, ...

Maybe, just maybe if Mr 0 ran the country as a leader the past 4 years, FULL-TIME instead of celebrity in chief; skip the View, late night shows, pimp with a limp interviews, ... then:
1) he would have a record he can defend and run on
2) there would have been little to no prep needed

shameful!

Vincent ... Your stuffy head doesn't seem to hinder your logic, I'm happy to say, or your wit. Hope you get over your cold as quickly as I did mine (tho I am still coughing
somewhat.)

This takes the cake, play the video; the dudes with the sunglasses

Obamabots Believe It Was Very Unfair Depriving Obama Of Teleprompter During Debate

http://lonelyconservative.com/2012/10/obamabots-believe-it-was-very-unfair-depriving-obama-of-teleprompter-during-debate/

Don't worry, Obama is IN for another four years. What you guys haven't figured out yet, and probably never will because they did not teach it correctly to you in school (or you were asleep), is that we live in a representative democracy, and as such, what counts is the Electoral College.

Thank you, Splinter, as you are dead on regarding the outdated tax code. Every day, I hear liberals cry about 'how much the rich don't pay in taxes', like they are supposed to voluntarily contribute more. I'd like to see these same liberals put THEIR money up where their mouth is, and contribute more. Romney paid what he was SUPPOSED to pay, per the tax code! End of story! Warren Buffet, paid what he was SUPPOSED to, per the tax code! If liberals don't like the tax disparity, then I suggest they get off their lazy asses, and use their overpriced cell phones (although some can't afford to put a meal on their table) and call their Congressional Reps and quit their crying.

Lol, Democrat Dimentia....I love it....I think I'm gonna use that line...that's awesome.

Three posts says it all for me and yes Romney looked better than Obama, ok, girls.

Mike G. Oct 4th 11:18 PM: "Are you guys done beating each other off yet or what? I haven't see this much whooping and hollering and high living since high school when the cheerleaders TP'd the football captain's house".

Why is it that loud mouths like these girls, always get their asses handed to them on game day?

Brian, Oct 4th 11:03 PM: "Unfortunately, both parties are no more than two rival gangs that care more about the gang and the money that come into the gang than the people". That's the truth!
.
David Mokul: Oct 4th,4:01 PM For subtle wisdom at it's best! "I've learned a long time ago you never discuss politics and religion. What I did see was in my mind maybe Obama was holding back so Mitt Romney would put his foot in his mouth. Just stay calm and vote for Rom but if you love your Mama vote for OBama.

1992 Ross Perot: "Our President blames Congress, Congress blames the President, the Democrats and Republicans blame each other. Nobody steps to the plate and accepts responsibility for anything". He was right then and he is right now!! It was about the National Debt then and is much more so now! Recently he warned, that another country could establish supremacy over the US, if it continues to go deeper and deeper in debt. "The last thing I wanted to see, is our country taken over because were so financially week, we can't do anything".

We get this done or we die!

A few last thoughts from me, for what thay're worth. I got the feeling that Obama, in his arrogance, was put out by having to debate at all, thinking that as President he should be immune to having to explain or answer any questions at all. Also, I do not consider Romney's approach as aggressive or disrespectful, as I've heard others say; I think he came to that debate with concrete facts and expressed them clearly and Obama disputing them would have been a futile effort. I am certain that Obama will be prepped with comebacks in the next debates but he really has so much explaining to do, especially now with this mess in Libya. I see him as a man who will basque in taking full credit for the capture and killing of BinLaden, yet unwilling to take responsibility for the murder of our Libyan Ambassador and others, who VOLUNTARILY went into that embassy when they realized what was beginning to happen. The more we learn, the more we know that cries for assistance came out of that embassy long before the burning and murders, and none was provided. How does anyone condone such behavior from a US President? Yes, the economy, taxes, etc., etc., are very important, I worry about the future as much as anyone, but let us not forget that the loss respect and credibility for the US in distant lands is equally important. Obama, try as he might, is simply not up to the task and he's proven it time and again. Really, time to consider a change ... let the chips fall wherever!

I believe that it's not us against the Republicans or Democrats, it's us against them, them against us. Brian posted both parties are no more than two rival gangs that care more about the gang and the money that come into the gang than the people. I'm remember how many ridiculed Ross Perot when he talked about how important it was to control the spiraling debt in 1992. He said it would soon go to $6 Trillion and they still piled it on from both sides as if he was the asshole not them. Perot was spot on, but Dems and Pubs don't care about that, they just want control. They asked Perot how he would accomplish this and his answers were similiar to Romneys today. None of us or them can know what the hell they are going to do because the debt is nearly impossible to overcome if you undertand the math involved. I've never seen a President elected before this present one, that suffered more obstructionism and hatred, before he even could began to operate. Anna, I'm curious if you voted for George Bush in his 2nd term? Why wasn't that time for change? How could anyone condone his behavior. He broke more laws than any President in history. He was the worst President of modern times. Obama rated 15th! Study the entire Middle East senario when Bush was in charge. Any questions?. We all owe way too much and people from both sides say that someone else should pay, but not me, no never me. Too much hate mongering going on today. Read current Perot thoughts and learn why he's still right.

In Obamas entire career his first job in being the leader of a group of any kind was being POTUS. He is In over his head. It is time for him to go and for America to right the wrong mistake they made four years ago.

Leonardo ... am very interested in Perot's current thoughts ... point me to them, if you please. (Truth be told, I thought he was engaging at the time.) Please allow me to refer you to Vincent's Forbe's sight again ... we all have something to learn.

VD your posts lack basic humility, and life experience for me. You keep sucking up, and and quoting every bit of information that supports your view and your view only. Your convinced, you couldn't possibly be wrong about anything. Your the coolest breeze on Patch, but how many Presidents have you voted for? I'm more confident with the opnions of those who have lived through many administrations, not just a few. If I vote for MR and SB as you implore us to do, are you 100% sure that they are not going to give us, more of what Bush gave us for 8 agonizing years? The Pubs didn't want MR in past primaries, so what makes him a better choice now, desperation? Can you gaurantee everything you say about the Republicans and how they will, without doubt do everything better because I need more than just your biased opinion. Are you 100% sure the Pubs will compromise more than Obama? Bush wouldn't compromise, ever! You seem so convinced beyond a doubt, that it worries me that you may be delusional. My political science professor and others, warned me,years ago, if it sounds to good to be true, etc. I think the Pubs should be very happy, they have you on their side and should put you on the payroll, because it's not important how much truth you spin, but only how many people believe it's just spin and not much else. I need to do more research OK, I accept but you need to grow up a little and stop believing all the slanted opinions you read and spout off as if it's the word of God!

Vincent DiRico: "I don't implore anyone to do anything" Why would you deny that you did? Did Mitt tell you not to rat? Obama always tells me not to rat.

Vincent DiRico on 10:14 am, Sunday, Oct. 7th, 2012

GET IT DONE: elect Mitt and we'll get a man who KNOWS business (what it takes to build one, what it takes to encourage it,) a man who will use principles like these on tax overhaul:
-- work with congress ** only when we have to!
-- not lower burden on upper income individuals ** while anyones looking!
-- relief to middle class (making us more competititve due to this being most small businesses) ** and his plan to give free monthy vouchers for "Beano" for those on welfare!
-- defict neutral **and brain dead!

** A man not afraid to bitch slap those Democrats and frauds sucking our system dry
** Yeah, GET IT DONE, Vote for Mitt and the Pips ( Strumming my life with his words and killing me softly with his B.S.)

Geez, Vincent I wasn't serious when I said the Republicans should pay you, but maybe they should, because your a hell of snake oil salesman!

Just kidding folks: Vincent did NOT say any double ** (star) marked statements in his political infomercial. I take responsibility for those Mitt Pickings!!! Sincerely, sometimes yeah gotta laugh! Sincerely Leonardo DaVinci.

Anna just type in Perot's Current View or anything similiar and read about his most recent interviews and thoughts. I think it's a great tragedy that we did not get a chance to see what he could do in 1992, because he was the first to recognize that the debt would destroy us and strip jobs from Americans in his "Giant sucking sound speech" They ridiculed him because he was a threat to the 2 party system, but he was spot on all the principles he thought would insure the Sanctity of this country, but he scared people and the Republicans and Democrats are great in playing off the fears of the electorate for their own purposes. Maybe if he became President he would of started and entrenched in America a custom and habit of fiscal responsibility. He possibly could have been the greatest leader since FDR, but we will never know.

Now the cat is so far out of the bag that all this talk is really just that, a lot of hot air. Hell more than half the money collected in taxes each year just goes to pay the interest of this massive debt. WHAT A HORRIBLE WASTE AND WHAT A GREAT SIN CAST UPON US BY OUR SO CALLED LEADERS, SINCE HIS DIRE WARNINGS WERE IGNORED. We are in very serious trouble and anyone who says they have a solution is just whistling through the grave yard. Maybe the ancient aliens will save us if God won't?

Yeah Vince I wish I could be my own worst enemy, and put a couple of billion dollars in my Mitts, like Perot. You don't live in the past, you learn from it, not to make the same mistakes again.

During the Oct 3rd debate Romney "insisted" that everyone in America would get a 20% tax cut, including the 1%, but on Feb 22, 2012 during his primary he said " I will not reduce taxes paid by high-income Americans".

Newt Gingrich acknowledged the clear inconsistency (Lies) saying. "I think it's clear he changed." (His tune) Newt described the change (lie) as good politics.

Of course, while Romney's spin regarding his plan has changed, the plan itself has not. Independent experts have concluded that, even if Romney eliminates every tax deduction it still wouldn't counterbalance his massive tax cuts for the wealthy.

It was one of 27 issues where Romney was less than honest during the debate. Romney's campaign also concluded he misstated the "truth" on green jobs.

The Machiavellian Doctrine as set in Nicolo Machiavelli book the "Prince" is practiced by all politicians in the Western World, which concludes that it is not important or wise to be honest, but only important, " that people think you are being honest or telling the truth. Mitt, Barack, Bushes, Reagan, Clinton, they all do it, even little birdies in the tree do it.. Keep drinking the conservative cool aid, it will quench your thirst for now but you'll pay later, big time!!

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ron Johnson ... good to hear from you !!

Anna you learn from the history of the past you don't live in it, but it's foolish to ignore it because history has a habit of repeating itself and if it's really bad history it would be wise if we can avoid the mistakes of the past. Your slant seems a bit naive. My beloved Obama? Where did you get that idea? The majority will vote for Obama in my opinion because Romney scares that majority. Big money supports Romney because Obama scares them. It's all conjecture, opinion, suppositions, wishful thinking, not facts. I quote, and believe in Brian's post from Oct.4th 11:03, is truth & wisdom! "Unfortunately, both parties are no more than two rival gangs that care more about the gang and the money that come into the gang than the people" end quote. What Brian says is the truth FOR ME, more than anything I've have read on Patch, including my own posts on this site and to me he is the objective voice, because his objectivity expels any notions he's own either side and realizes it's not us we have to worry about, IT'S THEM. It's always been them. We are just pawns in their game of power and control and the 2 party system gives us the illusion we are a great Democracy but we need more than two all powerful entities controlling everything, but they will always interferre and muscle out any and all efforts to form 3rd parties therefore blocking out any chances of real change. I don't love Obama but Romney control scares way too many people, and they will likely decide the election.

Ron that's fair to say and is the truth I assume, as I have reiterated many times before they all lie and it's been a part of the system forever. I wouldn't take too much from any single event. It's likely the next 2 debates may be quite different. I know the Perot people have respectively forwarded by Federal Express a few questions over to the debate committee or who ever controls the next 2 debates to see if the moderator or committee will actually ask them, but I hope they do. I don't know what the questions are and since Ross Perot has not endorsed either candidate yet, I assume their answers, if the questions are asked could get his endorsement. It could be meaningful for either candidate for those questions to be asked. It would be interesting to see what happens.

I have no strategy because I'm not a candidate Vince. Just making general chit chat about Ross, is that OK, maybe some people have an interest? You better believe the Pubs and Dems would not mind if Perot gave either one of their candidates the nod. Even something seemingly innocuous as a Perot endorsement can tip the scales one way or the other. I bet Mitt and Barack would pay homage to get it.

Vince does your incessant, pseudointellectual attitude ever take a rest? Were you ever the target of bullies as an adult, that might explain your constant irritability? Lighten up, laugh a little if you can,

Anna your right I won't vote for Mitt in Nov. and neither will millions of other voters, who don't believe in trickle down economics. etc. It never worked and everyone else has gotten poorer but those who support that shill game. I don't think too many voters want to risk being scape goated for any ideas that are predicated just so they can manage to give back to greedy, unscrupulous, fat cats. I do understand your positions and what seems logical to you, but I don't, and don't believe it will sell for most voters in Nov. I do respect your opinions, I hope you can believe that.

I would agree with you. I believe Perot would very likely endorse Mitt. He is Billioaire first and foremost a true fiscal conservative and I can't see him endorsing Obama, unless age has changed him at 81. I wouldn't think he was not at least somewhat pleased that the guy he probably put into the white house Clinton, although unintentionally, did listen to Perot and balanced the budget all of or most of his 8 years. I read back then he said some positive things about Clinton. Well, we should see if the debate team cares to ask any of his questions. If I was Mitt, I'd welcome it.

OK, Leonardo, Peace, please. It is starting again ... calling Romney a liar, as was done with Bush. I just don't like the slinging of trash from either party and calling a person a liar, without tangible proof of such, is distasteful to me and further diminishes my belief in their proposals. Seems to me that people in high places should seek a moral high ground and simply present their ideas without all this mud slinging. Fact is simple in my mind, that our President has only to offer what his history has given us and that ain't much, so let's beat up on the opponent any which way we can. As for your calling individuals "greedy, unscrupulous, fat cats", I cannot agree that folks who have worked hard to attain complete self sufficiency fall into that category. Nothing in life comes easy, not all people with lots of $ inherit their wealth, and most do not break laws, they simply take advantage of what is offered them legally, wouldn't you? Hard work and dedication rewards itself and I am not envious of the rich, I am too busy keeping my own head above water as I am sure you and most of us are, and I absolutely do not think that raising their taxes will do more than pour trickles into this gigantic bucket of debt we're in. I am far from a financial wizard but I do believe that to be true .. it will not help one iota. I don't blame you for your anger at the current situation but consider not directing it to our citizens. We really are all in this together, wouldn't you agree?

Romney won simply because he spoke with confidence, excitement and TRUTH! Obama was unprepared to be challenged because for the last 4 yrs he has NEVER been questioned about ANYTHING he says. The press obviously are having a love affair with King Obama and let him say anything he wants even when it's a LIE!! Maybe Obama should spend more time preparing himself for the next debate instead of going on Letterman, going on 'The View' and and hanging out with JayZ and Byonce....

Quasi I don't know why you think I'm voting for Romney? Did I somehow give that impression. I like Romney but I like Obama better.

I hate to keep repeating myself but it's a well know fact that all politicians lie and a lot. I'm trying to tell you it's a part of the political landscape. Obama too, Recently on Meet The Press in front of a national audience, Newt. Gingrich conseded that Romney wasn't honest about his tax plan during his debate with Obama. In that same program Obama campaign advisor Robert Gibbs confronted Newt Gingrich on a fundamental inconsistency in Romney's description of his tax plan. Newt Gingrich acknowledged the clear inconsistancy saying " I think it's clear he changed." He described the change (Lie) as good politics. Why!! Because you can't tell the truth all the time. They all just mix some truths with some lies and go with that. Why any of you think that does not happen is beyond my understanding. I know it does and you should too. Check it out yourself because more lies are revealed on Romney's part. Again hear what I'm saying,lies also, they all do because they have to. So pick your poison. I still sticking with the "O" Man. Check it out there a enough lies that go all the way to the skies! Go to a Conservative site and they will put out how many lies Obams tells. Sometimes, actually, a lot of times they lie about the lies.
That's life, that's what all the people that have been around say. Sometimes your flying high in April shot down in Nov.

Correction Again hear what I'm saying, Obama lies also, they all do. Sorry my computor keyboard is on the way out and I can't see very well and worst at night.

A Maker: Is that you Marc Levine? What is it you think the kool aid metaphor is cuz I cannot imagine what you are so horrified by?

Quasi ... I can't let your comments re: Romney's religion pass .. shame on you! I don't know if you are religious or a non-believer and I don't care, I respect your right to choose your own path. Freedom of religion was one of the main reasons people migrated to this new world, it is part of the fabric of our nation and should make us all proud that we've maintained it through the centuries. All religions have parts of their history that are questionable but that does not diminish the greater good they present and offer their followers. When I read your post I could not help but remember the atrocities committed by Hitler and wonder if that's where you'd like us to go. I ask you to compare Romney to Rev. Wright ... what conclusion do you come to? Are they the same? If you have a brain in your head you will answer with a resounding "NO", Romney is a patriot, whether you agree with him or not, he is nowhere the bigot that Wright is (a man, btw, who was revered by Obama for 20+ years and whom Obama has all but renounced to enhance his personal ambitions; I question that he doesn't secretly agree with Wright.) There are several very well respected members of the Mormon Church (NOT cult) in Gov't. and I can never remember, ever, any person disparaging their beliefs as you have. I can only hope you will reconsider your words/thoughts and be grateful to live as an American where we are free to choose and practice as we please ... be grateful.

Would you call a man a liar if he won't tell his captors the truth? We know he must lie but in our mind he is not a liar. I have accused both Romney and Obama of lying, but they are not liars because they must fudge the truth in a campaign. The Pubs and Dems often mix lie with truth on the campaign trail. When Gingrich admitted on Meet The Press, that Mitt clearly lied about the 20% tax cuts for everyone during the debate. See for yourself on the Meet The Press video. Romney's campaign, also admitted he misstated the truth (lied) on green jobs. His tax plan was one of 27 issues where he was less than honest, (I take that as some truth dispersed with some lies) during that debate. This most popular form of lying is part of the campaign game and has been going on forever. I say they are not liars, because their goal to be elected like the prisoner's goal is not to be a traitor, calls them to do what is necessary to get elected. Study Machiavellism! The politician cannot always tell the truth or it may harm his election chances, so he has to lie but he is not a liar. Anna called Mitt a Patriot, but goes on to cast doubt about Obama who is also a Patriot. She may be right about the Rev Wright, but is it really fair to cast aspirations that Obama just renounced the Rev. to enhance his personal ambitions. Religion should be off the board, but so should that kind of subtle accusation and character assassination. I think Romney and Obama are both good men but must lie at times.

I have to quote the sly wisdom of our very own David Mokal's Oct. 4th post because his advice saves so much time bickering about different views and ideaologies with others that a so set in their ways and have such unrelenting positions that David's advice in spot on and I quote his familiar saying"

"I've learned a long time ago you never win discussing politics and religion", very good advice D.M. and I advice to vote for whoever you want to and let the chips fall as they may!!!

I'm losing track of when/who said what here but I need to clear a few things: Quasi, the Mormon church started out VERY bad, I agree, but what has that to do with how they operate today? Just about every religion starts out as what you call a "cult". Do you not recall the crusades, for one? Freedom of religion, as all of our freedoms, must never be taken for granted or thought of as a "given", especially if some of us disparage those who believe differently than do we. Also, we do not live in a democracy, we live in a democratic republic, for the people and by the people. Leonardo ... you stole my line from way up there in the comments "let the chips fall wherever." I don't agree that they "lie", I like to give them the benefit of the doubt, think their policies (both men) are yet to be formed completely and they are simply stating where they hope to go. Mis-statements are not lies, they are just that, mis-statements, said at a moment of stressful time ... all how you choose to view it. To me lies are when a President covers up the fact that he refused help to our Libyan Ambassador, going so far as to reduce security even tho he was advised of armageddon, especially on the anniversary of 9/11. Hilary is also to blame but we all know where the buck stops. And, Leonardo, I never said that Obama was not a

Leonardo, continued ...a patriot, simply that I think he is inept at his job. Both men are patriots and courageous to place themselves and their families (and, yes, religions) up to the scrutiny of the entire nation. It's not a thing I am capable of, for sure. As for bickering, I thought we were exchanging ideas ... if you think it's bickering then I think you corner the market. (Like your spunk, tho ... when you get going, you don't stop!)

PS to both Quasi and Leonardo ... another of my "last thoughts" ... to Quasi, you may try to justify your prejudice re: Romney for his religion, but it does not hold water. Several generations and changes have taken place for the better in his church and it is no longer what once it was, it is simply one of our many religions. To Leonardo, yes, I do indeed feel that Obama would not have divorced himself from his Rev. Wright if the despicable tape of Wright's comments were not made public. For O to say he sat in that church for eons and never heard it is more than unbelievable to me. How stupid do you think I and others are? Talk about lies!

Anyone get a look at the poll data rolling in? at this rate even MA may be in play!

Mr 0 and "his people" are sure out of touch

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57528812/sesame-workshop-to-obama-take-big-bird-ad-down/

Maybe Joe B should ask Big Bird to stand in for him ;)

For Mr. Hunchback....is it possible you can get that OCD in check? Seriously....you made the same point THREE times. We get it....you like Obama....now move on, will ya'?

Quasi, sorry I ever engaged with you in ANY discussion, you are not open to other's views.I am simply advocating tolerance of our fellow man,something you seem incapable of and totally unwilling to consider.The question raised in this post is who we thought won the Presidential debate,never expecting anyone to go off on a tangent about the wrongs of one candidate's religion.I foolishly felt the need to defend one of our nations fundamental freedoms.Note,I said "freedom",not the candidate.What you and many ignore is that it is not only economic issues that are rightly of concern and need consideration in this election,but our basic freedoms are being infringed upon day by day,picked apart little by little in covert ways.I am concerned about keeping our rights and freedoms and if we are not diligent,not tolerant of each other,the erosion will continue until none are left.It's already happening in NYC,where Mayor Bloomberg mandates the # of ounces in a soft drink,forcing hospitals to withhold formulas from newborns so mothers will be forced to breastfeed,now giving contraceptives and morning-after shots to kids as young as 14,without parental awareness or consent,yet simple aspirin by a school nurse cannot be administered.Right here in Concord, come 1/14,there will be a ban on the purchase of small bottles of water.Do you not care about this,is it of no concern to you?I don't care about Joe Smith,I care about keeping our freedoms & choice in religion is just one of them.

I am voting for Kevin.

Quasi ... not quite yet, but we could be on our way if we are not more vigilant. Surely I feel the present administration has done it's share to try to erode our freedoms and really take us into oligarchy. And not only in DC I'm afraid.

Computer keyboard on the way out, so I won't be able to make to many waves, until I get a knew one. I agree with the basis of Anna's last post, but I feel that way about Romney and the Republican Party as the one's most likely to erode our freedom. I have compelling reasons why I believe that, but am certain that those who differ, will not agree no matter what I say, but wouldn't you be disappointed if I didn't try anyway? Just exchanging ideas, which is not a bad thing is it? I have my own set of criteria and experiences that lead me to believe what I say. I will try to explain myself with new keyboard, later. Years ago, I was fortunate to have a political science professor from Harvard that was moonlighting, at our shabby little school in Boston and he said he was going to give us a course that he taught at Harvard, He said you can home and tell your parents that and maybe they won't be so disappointment if you flunk my class. Anyway, that year we studied the diffences between the political philosophies of the incomparable Italian Nicole Machiavellie author of the Prince and that of the religious philosphies of Martin Luther the German theologian. We had to show the basic differences in the way that the two men thought and how their philosophies affected the lives of the different audiences they were writing and speaking about. I learned that all modern day politicians practice the Machiavellian concepts of duplicity and deception and Romney and Obama are no exception.

Have seen them online with good size keys. The cost is more, but not too bad, about a $100 and up. I'm bet you can find them for less. I'm interested myself, I let you know what I find.

Fact #2:Senior citizens don't care about the jobless rate, like my generation does...all they CARE about is Medicare benefits and Social Security! You know why? They have paid a lifetime into the funds, and expect the govt. to make good on their contributions. And all Joe Biden did was spit on them during that whole debate. It will be my personal satisfaction to watch Obama & Biden make their concession speech the day after the election! Cheers!

A comment was deleted from this post for violating Patch's Terms of Use: www.patch.com/terms

Last night's performance by Joe Biden is a clear indication of why we need term limits for U.S. Senators. The 'lifetime' Senators clearly, have become detached and out of touch with what Americans need!

Joe Biden is Vice President of our country and has not been a US Senator since 2008. I guess you meant anyone who was a Democratic Senator for many terms? Do you feel that way about all US senators? For example, are there 2 or 3 or more Republican Senators you feel that way about? I assume you have list of other Democratic Senators you would like to limit. That brings up an interesting question, are there any Democratic Senators that you support and think are doing a great job?

The more and more anyone reads these posts I can't help think how simple and true Dave's post was that you just can't argue about religion and politics. Everyone has a sharp axe to grind and everyone insists they are right.

To Leonardo: TERM LIMITS FOR EVERYONE.....PERIOD!

Anna, I am a favorite of term limits in politics, in the reasoning that it can keep things 'fresh'. Look what the Ted Kennedy legacy has offered.....entitlements and welfare, at OUR expense. When they call Massachusetts the 'commonwealth' they aren't kidding. Look at what Jesse Helms had to offer....bigotry and racsim ate the only things that come to mind. And you know why? Because those folks who elected him every time, must have agreed with him. This state, obviously, is a Democrat state....and why is that? Because they are voted in every single time, by people who must agree with them and their views...YET, these same people cry about how no change has come. You get what you pay for. And I think both criminal and probate judges shouldn't be appointed lifetime positions either.If they are going to be appointed, then give them term limits as well! Time to take the 'touch' out of 'the', if you know what I mean.

Why stop there? We really don't need congress or presidents deciding anything. They can still run and be elected, but let their first priority be a nation wide computer voting system, where WE can vote on the issues daily, weekly, whenever we must. With the exceptions of emergenicies when the President must act immediately when enemies attack or any vital emergency. Let the main job of Congress be to draw up the laws that "We" submit to them and we will vote on to pass or not right at home.. It's the computer age! Why I we running the country like we did almost 250 year ago? They did not have computers, telephones, lighting fast information distribution. You needed representatives then but you don't need them as in 1776. They should truly be our servants and be there in Washington because they want to help, not take from a system that clearly does not work any longer. Don't blame Republicans or Democrats, just blame us all. If you can get term limits and believe it, they will make it almost impossible for you to do so, and that should be the only proof you need that the only true ruling system should be that every lawbiding registered voter should be the boss, and ready and responsible all the time.. IF YOU WANT IT DONE FAIRLY DO IT YOURSELF! Computerize the voting system for home use. It can be and shoud be done, but they who are in charge now, will fight us tooth and nail to keep the "REAL" power from American citizens for as long as they can, but not forever.

Leonardo, I do agree that the present voting mechanism is archaic, no question. The problem with 'computers' in general is that we live now in the information age, and a lot of people out there are what we call 'script kiddies' who's soul purpose is to exploit language and code. If we ever find something fool proof that can't be hacked or exploited, I'm in!

I understand and my initial proposal is an over simplification by far, of an idea that has to be worked. There would be many obstacles, by many different people and they will say it can't be done for many different reasons. We split the atom. We cured Polio. We put men of moon. I could go on and on and there are many people who could draw this plan to perfection if they willed. We all know it, in our hearts the system is broken. They who lead concurrently have put 16 Trillion dollars debt on every man, women and child in this nation and no one can blame any one person for it. We did it together because we let them, we did not come up with a better way to run our goverment and we just assumed that it should be run the way they did in 1776. But, consider more than us those who lived in those days were ready for such a change and what they did was remarkable for their time, We were the model goverment for the rest of the world, If they had our present communication technology and the ability of lightening fast communication, they would leap at the chance to do it, but we have become robotic in our everyday living and waste or time arguing when we should be cooperating. I have read many posts on Patch this year and it does appear we have to start finding ways to cooperate more. We are not in control. I'm not overly relgious but someone told me once, that one of the great messages of the Bible was that we should cooperate in life more than compete. Hopefully that is true!