It started off cordial, but quickly got fiery.
The gloves quickly came off.
"Sort of feeling each other out like boxers in the ring," said Brian Schultz, Lieutenant Governor. "Now they’re fully engaged and the fight is on."
President Obama retains the lead in several key states, that typically determine the presidential election.
But it’s not just those swing state voters that the presidential candidates are vying for tonight..its also those who are undecided.
"As a rule debates tend not to shift, create big shifts, in voter preferences, but they do really matter for the remaining undecided voters," said Colin Moore, UH Political Science Professor.
Expectations were high for President Obama, who is known for his gift of oration.
"Theyre both being very careful, they’re both trying not to look overly nervous or perceived as overly aggressive," said Moore.
But the pressure was also on for Romney
"If governor Romney, doesn’t hold his own, then his campaign may be more or less over. No candidate has been as far behind in the polls as he is right now, and won the presidential election," said Moore.
Romney supporters said he did more than hold his own..
"Mitt Romney hasn’t had the chance to introduce himself to the everyday american viewer- this gives him the chance to introduce himself, what he believes in and the plans he has for america," said Lauren Berghell, Hawaii Republican Party Communications Director.
As important as their responses and rebuttals are experts say body language and demeanor carry equal weight in viewers minds
"They both look really confident and what we want in a president in these trying times- is someone who looks confident and ready to lead the nation," said Nacia Blom, Hawaii Republican Party Executive Director.
As for who took home the debate on Wednesday night, well that’s a matter of personal opinion.
"That’s really unfair, I always think its Romney so yes Romney," said Blom.
"Obama has been consistent and respectful and knows the facts, and I think he’s doing a much better job," said Kristin Stahl-Johnson, Obama Supporter.
Over the next few days, a lot of fact checking will be done and that may reveal who the true winner of Wednesday night’s debate is.
The candidates will square off two more times this month.
See the original article at: KHON2 Local News
