Looks like Palin seemed dodgy and evasive to the 'focus group' too. I thought she was dodgy, and her answers were cadged from her set-speeches quite often. No surprise.

Senator Biden managed to bite his tongue a few times, such as when Palin got the name of the General in Afghanistan wrong, twice, and was a complete gentleman and statesman. He didn't try to trip her up. He didn't have to.

The question she never answered (of many) which annoyed me the most, was the one about 'have you ever changed your mind in your career?' First she said she'd only been on the trail for 5 weeks, so she hadn't said much, about which to change her mind. Then, when she was directed back to Alaska, she said 'no, I don't think I have'.

We've seen what ABSOLUTE CERTAINTY does, in an Administration....

She was tense, and did seem like she was trying a bit too hard. There were several times when she didn't have answers, and had to go back to set pieces.

Biden was relaxed. He knew his facts, and more to the point, he knows both his own, and John McCain's voting record, and she doesn't.

I'm old fashioned enough, that I didn't fancy her referring to Senator Obama, whose permission she had not asked, as 'Barack'. At least she asked Joe Biden's permission.

Can we just give her a sash, and a tiara, and a bouquet? That fixed beauty-queen smile was sooo glossy and ingratiating. Unfit for 'a heartbeat away'!

Governor Palin has rehearsed her lines very well and is a very good actress. She has a degree in journalism and is good at it because she has a passion for being in the spotlight. Too me she’s a very good actress but not a stateswoman. She doesn’t know how to respond to on the spot questions. Most actresses rehearse their lines before articulating a good performance and that’s what she did. She’s not a competent Vice President. She performed well in the public eye and I’m afraid the voters that are on the fence maybe swayed her way, but not with the right reasons in mind. She just came across to them as real, but she’s just acting which is a greek word for hypocritical.

Ms. Crowley, Amy Holmes, and Roland Martin do you feel comfortable knowing that Palin has at least a 50% chance of being your Presiendent?

Senator Biden delivered the goods

One thing stood out during this debate tonight – Joe Biden is comfortable speaking on an enormous range of issues while Sarah Palin is marginally comfortable talking about "shaking things up" and becoming "energy independent" by drilling in a unique ecosystem that she understands about as well as she understands the human impacts that have created climate change.

If you show this debate to 100 political analysts in foreign countries who are not familiar with Joe Biden or Sarah Palin, not a single analyst would say that Ms. Palin won the debate. As a matter of fact, they will be shocked to even hear that there are people in US who believe that. This is how biased and how idiotic this conversation is regarding who won. Ms. Palin was expected to screw up and she did not. saying that she won the debate is like saying that America has the best of its 8 years under George Bush. I am not sure when the people of this great country are going to wake up and smell the burning cash in their pockets.

The denial, oppression and discrimination of lesbians and gays still continues after such an immense longing for friendship, freedom and equality.

I think Biden riped Sara APART!!! with out breakinga swet also destroyed McCain

What are you crazy??? Palin won this debate. Just admit it. All of you on CNN is wrong.

Palin: Didn't know that the VP doesn't preside over the senate....come on. A 6th grader knows that the VP only votes with a tie.

Are you going to keep talking about Sarah Palin between now and the election? You haven't stopped.

The comments of your panel of experts has been interesting, but the dogma in the comments of some of the panelists is, unforunately, expected. The interesting thing to me is that all of the panelists have missed a fundamental point-Biden consistently put meat on the skeleton, while Palin talked in generalities and gave very few specifics. The same thing happened in the first Presidential debate, during which Obama gave more specifics than did McCain.

It is really interesting that Biden talks of the failed policies of the Bush administration, when the Democrats have controlled Congress since the last Congressional election. Our government is based on a division of powers among three branches. Yes, the President is the Commander in Chief, but Congress has the power to enact laws. If Biden – along with his Majorty Party in Congress -is so dissatisfied with Bush, why hasn't he and his majority party done more to affect the policies of the Exec utive Branch.

Does Governor Paulin even know what the job description is for Vice President of the United States of America? She seems to possess a Cheney attitude towards the position. More of the same Sarah?

One phrase; "Class Act" is how I would paraphrase Joe Biden's effort tonight. I think he was very gracious to Mrs. Palin and treated her with more respect than her own party did in the last few weeks when she was not allowed to speak to the MSM.
Hands down, Biden wins tonight's debate!

If I am locked up on a beautiful ranch with my advisors surrounding me and "coaching" me...can I run for VP? Palin is a typical model of mock and trial politics...wha wha wha...

I'm just amazed how the overwhelming census is Gov Palin performed so well. Yes, she was able to speak, she did not fall when walking nor did she stare into the camera like a deer in headlights....but she frequently did not answer questions, did not support her answers with facts and every answer was addressed with an energy reply. This is the 2nd highest position in the world, why is not failing considered doing "well". Come on!!!

Mr. AC:
How about Biden as president and Palin as VP?? I have a lot more respect for these two after their debate, than Obama and McCain.

Palin did not answer questions; Palin attacked Biden rather than telling us all how she would tackle the issues of the day with any specifics; Palin sounded more like she was regurgitating mantra drilled into her the last three days at McCain's Sedona, Az. home than rtelling us what her experience to be a heart beat away from the presidency; and Palin did not have command of the facts. In short, she "ain't" no vice presidential material!

Joe Biden was great. I would feel so much better with him as VP. Sarah Palin scares the hell out of me!

Joe Biden Beat Sarah Palin Hands down. There was no comparison.
Sarah Palin kept plugging in advertisments for Sen. McCain more so than her ability to answer any question that was asked her. I think that we have seen who knows what we need.

Four more years of "nucular"?

Watching the debate tonight I found that I genuinely like all 4 members of the Presidential tickets. The main difference I found tonight was that Mr. Biden impressed me on a presidential level where Governor Palin’s greatest success was that I was finally able to exhale that she didn’t faint from the pressure of being so far out of her depth. I like her and think she has a grasp of many things, but as for being “a heartbeat” from the most powerful position on earth, she and Mr. McCain should know better.

Hillary Clinton she was not, no where near the capability of Hillary , Hope they were not trying to get the womens vote , yes a woman but not the one who should be representing America

Anderson, Please ask your panel who connected better with middle america. Do they think that Palin kinda speaks the language (very informal and down to earth) of middle america?

Biden's answers were direct and informative. Palin waffled a little and migrated back to familiar talking points when she didn't seem to know how to really answer a specific question.

Biden says we need a timeline. I wonder what timeline George Washington and Abraham Lincoln and Woodrow Wilson and Franklin Roosevelt had?

Palin was not even able to pronounce the word "nuclear" correctly. It makes me wonder if she knows how to spell it.

I am a 17 year old high school student and if I could vote I would vote for Barack AND Biden. I don't think Sarah Palin is ready to lead and I think John McCain needs to get an up date on the world. So for all you guys that can vote, vote for Obama and Biden ticket and save my life and millions of others before McCain starts WWIII,

Palin did a great job on the debate!!!! What is wrong with people, do they forget about Obama's years of a being influenced by a muslim preacher?? Hello, the guy doesn't have nearly the experience he needs to be president. I wish the media would stop interviewing Obama supporters only and democrates, also I wish they will stop hurting the campain for McCain!

The McCain-Palin ticket is scary. John is all over the map, with what he has said and done recently. Sarah is off on a tagent that has nothing to do with anything. Nothing coherent what so ever.

At least Obama-Biden gives you confidence that someone credible will be in charge of the country.

Can anyone be comfortable with the idea that Sarah Palin could be President if something happened John McCain? I mean really!

Up here in Canada – we really didn't know Biden – actually very impressive – the moment when he talked about his son – was signifciant! – he not only represented fathers well but parents as whole – we think he touched alot of families up here

Sarah did well and brought herself back to the convention status – to her credit she has learned alot in a short period of time – the joke here in the PUB was that

If Sarah wins McCain SHOULD BE VP and in charge of "POW reform" or something like that...

overall BIDEN was impressive – he should get more air time

Palin did a great job during the debate, but not good enough to change a lot of minds tonight. Palin should plan to run in 2012 on her own.

Watching as an outsider from Canada I thought it interesting when one of your panelists joked that Palin was positioning for a 2012 Pesidential bid. I chuckled and so did panelists from both parties on your show. But if positioning for 2012 is so crazy and remote, how can you qualify her for Jan. 08 when in many ways she is running for a real chance at just that position. President Palin? Come on. This was an irresponsible choice by Mr. McCain.

Maverick this, Maverick that...Maverick, schMaverick!!! That's all Sarah Palin could come up with to answer questions! Give us examples of how he is a Maverick instead of just trying to make the label stick!!!

It felt like Palin didn't even hear the questions. She just diverted away from any issue which she did not remember an answer for. The moderator did a terrible job in that regard. Joe was smart to not bite when she tried to make him mad and attack her. That would have made him look like a bully. I did not hear Palin say one thing that differentiate McCain from Bush. Joe on the other hand did a fantastic job proving his knowledge of the issues, experience and vision for the future of America.

Denise -

You obviously know nothing about the muslim religion. The depth and breadth of real-life experience Obama brings from so many cultures is so important to America. Not everyone is American hates Muslims – not all Americans think all Muslims are terrorists - not all Americans are racist and talk about people they know nothing about.

I think Palin at best, hung in there. She didn't answer any of the questions as they were presented but she re-ignited her likeability factor. On the other hand, I think Biden was excellent. He answered the questions, knew the details, the facts and offered the ticket's plan. He had a couple of opportunities to hammer her and chose not to.

why is no one highlighting palin's agreement with cheney on the expansion of the vp authority; this was shocking and as biden suggested, dangerous!

I was very uncomfortable with Sarah Palin's body language during the debate. When discussing specific issues of great importance, Joe Biden was straight to the point and very knowledgeable. Palin, on the other hand, responded with very general talk and could not come up with policy examples and ellaborate discussion on any issue. About the body language, am i the only one who notices all the unwarranted smiling and winking on her part??? I don't remember any other politician, male of female every making so many "cutesy", "miss America" style faces! I cannot imagine someone like Madeleine Albright, or Hillary Clinton, for that matter, making cute winking-smiley faces while treating serious issues! Also, can you imagine someone like Margaret Thatcher at the world stage being "cute" and "girly" while discussing important issues...give me a break, she needs to go back to Alaska and leave national politics to the grownups...

Sarah Palin did better than expected but she is being compared to the last few times she has open her mouth which was absolutely horrible. I think Biden won this debate because he clearly answered questions and Palin stayed general with answers. She thinks she can smile her way into the white house. I hope Obama win because if I have to hear Presidents and Vice president continue to beat around the "Bush," I want a passport away from here.

THE question I have to ask myself, and we, AMERICA have to ask ourselves is simply, can I, CAN YOU? See this Woman, Sarah Palin as the Vice President of the United States and more, and prolly more accurately, can I, CAN YOU See THIS Woman. Sarah Palin as THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES?!!!! Bloody Hell NO! I CAN NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

God help the US if Palen becomes VP
she can't even enucicate her words

didn't we hear "O'Biden", "nuclear" a la George W, wow ...is the best Amercia has to offer

It is so sad that the media will not do it's job any more. The people that vote do not know what they are voting for anymore because the press is either for the right or the left and not for the simple truth. We need to know the real truth now not the political spin. I read 3 papers every day and still cannot get anywhere near the true facts in this very difficult time. I can not longer watch cnn or fox but have to rely on cnbc to get anywhere close to the real truth. This is no longer a game you guys, but a very real problem. Is it to much to ask for the media to do some real research and try to help solve this very real problem. I don't need your opinion, I need the facts.

Sarah is a breath of fresh air for America. God Bless Sarah and the United States. She speaks common no nonsense talk.

This Country would go forward with speed when Sarah and McCain get in.

She slammed Good Ole Joe tonight.

Can someone actually tell the country how much of the tax burden the middle-class Americans are actually paying? It is not about "fairness" as Joe Biden would call it – otherwise, the burden wouldn't be so far off base. I'm not saying that those with a higher income shouldn't bear a greater portion of the tax burden, but to impose such substantial burdens on higher income individuals and businesses, defeats the goal of saving the economy. When money is spent, jobs are created, when money is taken, jobs are depleted. It's not rocket science.

Why do the Democrats continue to refuse to to attack the McCain/Palin ticket on some issues that beg to be challenged?

The surge worked? If it worked why can’t we leave? Aren’t people still dieing there? Or are they not bothering to respond because they figure the argument is already won?

John McCain knows how to win a war? Where did he learn that? Did I miss something? I know that’s not PC.

Lower corporate taxes will automatically result in more jobs? Most new jobs are created by small businesses. Also there is no guarantee that corporate CEO’s wont take those savings and line their pockets instead of creating jobs. Also jobs are being shipped overseas in pursuit of low wages more than low taxes. Neither side has an answer for that. I would support corporate tax cuts if they were linked to job creation.

Governor Palin again refuses to answer the question. "I might not answer the question the way you asked or the way ...."

While I was happy after the GOP convention with either ticket, I am an independent and will vote for Obama in part because Sarah Palin does not know, cannot "Cliff Notes" her way into the job, and cannot seem to just answer the question. She's running to become VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. I just can't see her offering any good advice, counsel, insight or viewpoint or any domestic or foreign issue to the President of the United States.

I don't need to hear stump speeches, canned positions, catch phrases, "aw-shucks-ism" that's trying to make me feel like she's "like one of us". I want someone who knows more than I do, and one who can understand the issues our country faces and make a coherent and educated answer to the problem.

Sarah Palin needs to apologize to all those who tuned in the debates to hear the answers. I have 3 kids and I have a vested interested in this election. Stop dumbing down and keepin' it simple because the issues and problems are not simple. Her pride in your "small town" shucks-isms is so transparent. Who doesn't come from a small town? And if they are born or currently live in a big city (and I'm not), are they any worse in their values, or worries about their families, their shrinking budgets and dollars, and their high price of gas and groceries?

Please Gov. Palin, get off the ticket and have Mitt Romney (who knows a thing or two about the economy) join the ticket. Country first.

Clearly Biden won. Palin studied hard and used her Cliff Notes well. What is so disturbing is that there are people who do not understand that if someone does not write a script for Palin she is clueless.

Wake up America, and get with the program, this is serious stuff.

Why was it so easy for the CNN analysts to declare Joe Biden the winner over Sarah Palin given the overwhelming rating from several poles, but hasn't declare Senator Obama the winner over Senator McCain despite the same poles rated Obama with the same overwhelming percentages?

For all the talk about sexism in this campaign, I was highly offended by Palin's folkys ways from the eye winks to the tone of her voice throughout the debate. Please do not refer to me a "Joe six-pack." You do not represent me.

@Denise,

Obama DOES NOT have years of influence by a muslim preacher. And even if he did, WHICH HE DOES NOT, what does that have to do with the debate?

Early in the debate Palin said , " and I may not answer the questions that either the moderator or you want to hear". She was programmed to follow a script no matter what came up. Her handlers did not want her to stray into unknown territory prone, as she is, to falling into quicksand. As a vice presidential candidate she makes a great hockey mom.

I was especially struck by the emotion of Joe Biden when speaking about his family losses. I thought Sarah Palin could have acknowledged the intensity of family struggles in every day struggles. He hit a home run with his emotional honesty... she may have missed an average Joe's opportunity to connect with the public.

I found it appalling that Governor Palin marched her infant son onstage after the debate. It was far too late for any infant to be anywhere but safely in bed, first of all. But to in effect use her handicapped son as a pawn for a sympathy vote, is disgusting. As a parent, she should be ashamed. Poor baby.

Palin really knocked it out of the park. McCains got my vote. Fact check has already identified 10 blatant lies Biden said and only 1 from Sarah.

Senator Joe Biden won this debate hands down. Governor Palin did not come close. This evening proved Biden is well qualified to be VP and Palin is NOT.

The Vice Presidential Debate was fulfilling in some aspects and very disappointing in others. Why is the emphasis of this debate geared more towards the expectations of Sarah Palin and if they were met or not when every American has far greater concerns than what grade Palin should receive on her debate performance this evening? Can we please focus on the issues in a time when Americans are experiencing more hardships than ever since the Great Depression? Mrs. Palin's failure to answer too many of Ms. Ifill's questions was beyond frustrating. We need answers and need those in power to care about us 'everyday' Americans such as working students, those struggling to pay their bills, those going into foreclosure on their homes? This election affects us far more than any other time in history. Can we please act like it?

I am very upset that Gov. Palin did not answer the questions that were asked of her. She answered questions that were in her head. Every question no matter if it was in reference to healthcare, she responded with a energy answer. I also did not like that she was trying to put Biden down and trying to lure him into attack mood . There were numerous opportunities for him to check her and he restrained himself. This debate was won by Biden.

there is one problem that no one is talking about. the problem is that palin reminds us of bush. she cannot overcome this by being sarah, because sarah is bush.

As I said in an eariler comment, Plain did a great job during the debate, as far as exceeding expecations. But as far as having a real grasp of the issues when compared to Biden, I'm not seeing what the pundits are telling me. She didn't really install confidence in me. Yea Biden isn't as charming or attractive as Palin, but Biden knows what he is talking about.

When I vote for a presidential ticket, I look at both people on the ticket, not just the person on top.

To me, Palin looked like a well trained animal performing as taught. When she was asked questions that she did not know the answers, she changed the subject and talked about something she knew. As she did this repeatedly, she reminded me of animals performing stunts they have rehearsed.

So far non of the post debate analysis has focused in on two important Palin moments. One came when she was asked if she now understood what the VP did, and her response included the comment that she wished the VP had more Constitutional responsibility (Gwen did pursue this connecting it to Cheney's observations). The second moment came when she was asked what she would do if she had to come to the presidency through death. She stated her own points to pursue, connecting being President to being Mayor!

Sara
Iam a muslim and I think that's Obama no nothing about muslim and Islam
He ounce said that' he is going to bring SUNNI SHIIA KURD together
and that's make me said how on earth you can do that's mr Obama

Did they end up teaching any math in the liberal arts courses that Soledad O'Brien took? Calling for an Ohio focus panel vote of who won the debate, she called the response in favor of Biden "overwhelming." Rewind your TiVo and freeze frame the raised hands for both candidates, and it was essentially a tie! I counted, and counted again, and even I had a trained teacher in the room counting hands with me! I hope Soledad didn't write the story before it happened! Say it ain't so, Joe! Overall, good CNN coverage. I think Palin could make more of a difference in DC. Moreso than a factoid-intensive being such as Biden. The Senate is full of people like him. Palin is different, I'll give her that-hands down.

Roland and Ed Gergen truly get it – they call it out like it has to be called out!

Please ask Mrs. Sanchez why change and freshness is so important at the bottom of the ticket and not the top? Doesn't her argument of change and freshness underscore Obama's whole campaign?

sarah was laughing at Mr. Biden??? did anyone noticed? i didnt like it at all.

Palin did, to a large degree, redeem the image she was left with after her interviews of late but she did evade a good deal.

Other than redemption for the "airhead" title she carried she did nothing.

What worries me is her remark pertaining to possible Constitutional changes in order to give the VP more power...NOT.

THAT IS WHAT CHENEY HAS TRIED TO SHOVE DOWN OUR THROATS AND IT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE AT ALL.!

No kidding Biden got 70% on being most like a typical politician. People in key leadership roles dont talk the way Palin does. She has moments when she takes on a tone like she is talking to a child vs grown adults. The folksy thing is not cool either. I want a leader who I can respect, look up to, and trust to make right decisions that will impact mine and my child's future, not the "soccer mom" from next door. Our Country's reputation is already seriously damaged in the world's eyes. Having her represent us on the global stage scares me. The world leaders she met in the whirlwind of "meetings" did not take her seriously, based on comments about hugging and how beautiful she was. Come on!!!!!!!! That is terrifying!

I am an Independent definitely voting for Democrat this time around. We all know she is not qualified for the position she is running for, regardless of what the Republican reps say. What will be interesting is to hear the serious amount of backpeddling after the election, regardless of the results.

It amazes me that she's getting applause and only answered about 50 percent of the questions. I'm sorry, Call me an elitist, but I want the answers. Someone previously said she should run in 2012...wow! The "Joe 6-pick", didn't Bush say something like that? I'm sorry people, this is the White House, not Senior year in high school. This is madness and I'm outraged. Palin is a scripted tragedy that I pray does not make it to the White House. If she does, America will be the joke of all nations.

What amazes me is that Obama is the most inexperienced president to be, and he may be with your and all the other biased journalists help, the truth is that your country is in big mess and your Obama is too small to solve it,

It will be the God who will put the final touch not you or any of your other biased friends.

Sarah Palin may be seen by some to be a fresh voice. After the debate tonight I see that voice as the voice of a cheerleader. Rah, Rah...drill, baby, drill....victory in Iraq...and on and on. No substance, no real answers, or specifics. She's on the sidelines cheering her party on, but she is clearly not in the game making plays!

Mr Cooper:

Listen, it was so easy to see how Palin was working so hard to reestablish her credibility in the presidential debate with Biden.

Its to late in the campaign for McCain, since he threw America the BIGGEST insult by placing an unfamiliar inexperience woman on his ticket.

Roz, M.

Senator Biden is obviously an experienced debater. That being said, he and Obama are still dangerous in the White House. Pork lovers who have little regard for the national debt. Special interest panderers. And lined up with Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid in the Congress is a frightful proposition for America!

Palin was awesome. Joe came across as angry and was dead wrong on some of the facts.

Sarah Palin talks in nonsensical circles saying nothing over and over again. She is in way over her head! She lacks the intelligence, the education, the experience and the wisdom it takes to lead. John McCain is unstable, erratic and wreckless. This country can't afford the carelessness (maverick) of McCain and Palin. Obama and Biden clearly are a solid team with the temperment, intelligence and analytical minds that it will take to look beyond the moment, and foresee what this country needs to do to get back on track.

Ms. Palin was quick to show everyone her lack of experience by simply restating what she had obviously practiced over the week...."I'd like to get back to the tax cuts!" At no point could Sarah Palin offer her "own" statistics about where we are at as a country. It was very obvious that she has no true background knowledge. What a joke.

After replaying the VP debate – Joe Biden makes a serious error in defining the way the framers define the role of the VP. Bisen referred to Article 1 as the defining article for the VP – He is corrrect in that comment, however he goes on to say Article 1 defines the Executive Branch – that is incorrect. Article 1 defines the Legislative Branch and gives the VP powers as President of the Senate, with a vote only when there is a tie. The Constitution does limit the presence of the VP as President of the Senate – lets really define the "President of the Senate." The leave an opening fo ra broad interpretation as to the role a President, perhaps even a leadership role in the Senate- a leadership role few VPs have utilized.

Palin did not answer the questions. I am still afraid that she might be vice president. She wants more power as VP; not more responsbility. Don't be fooled. She's dangerous.

I was especially struck by the emotion of Joe Biden when speaking about his family losses. I thought Sarah Palin could have acknowledged the intensity of family struggles in every day struggles. He hit a home run with his emotional honesty… she may have missed an average Joe’s opportunity to connect with the public.

Yes that was very moving – and a great point that he made.

palin did better than i thought she would but she still dodged answers to the questions that were asked of her.

What is with Sarah Palin that she never holds her baby? The other kids always hold the baby. Her husband didn't pick the baby up either. As a mother, this disturbs me.

Sarah Palin didn't win the debate for several reasons. Tonight, she actually showed she had what it takes to be McCain's running mate. However, she spent her time establishing her base. I think tonight she pieced back together what her Katie Couric interview tore apart. Atleast this is one Saturday Tina Fay can take off! With that, she failed to "convert" swing voters and independents. I say Biden won. He addressed her as Governor which was respectful while she called him Joe. He called her out on this "Maverick" thing (which I was so proud of). By the way, what is a "maverick"? LOL. I stopped keeping count on the number of times she used it. She answered what "she" wanted to answer versus respecting the moderator and America by answering the questions given. America knows she was a Mayor. America knows she was a governor. But American wants to know what she'll do in her role as VP. She failed to convince me tonight. She pulled statements out of her set speeaches, generalized all of her answers, poor job. Every time, she uses her role as governor and mayor to her advantage. But Palin darling... that's gotten really old. I'm afraid Palin's honeymoon w/ America is OVER. I've been converted. Go OBAMA/BIDEN!

As a Canadian, I watched this VP debate over our Leader's Debate tonight as we have a Federal General Election on October 14. I am a huge fan of Obama and a huge fan of what once was a great country. Get back on track, soon. VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN. There is nothing shameful about universal health care, respect for diversity, gun control and bank regulations.......................

What would happen if they took that 709,billion dollars and divided it among American citizens that are 18 years old and up? Then this money would truly help Americans and they would spend it spiraling the economy upwards. How dumb would this be? I will never see one penny of this $709,billion dollars and I live on $551.00 a month. Try doing this. I was main street America but not any more. Thank You

Please talk about how Palin said that Government should get out of the way, yet she said that the "joe six pack" got scammed by wall st.

Palin said they love free mkts, but she lambasted free markets for the problem. how is this consistent?

What's amusing is that when asked about climate change/global warming, Palin states that climate changes are due to man's behavior. Pollution contributes to global warming and it is due to man's irresponsibilty. But yet, the residents of Little Diomede, throw their trash in the waters of the strait because they have no way of disposing of waste. Is that not contributing to polluting our waters? You would think as a reformer, Palin would spend money on a way for these 150 residents to dispose of a waste rather than spend millions on a sports complex.

I give Biden high marks on his performance in this VP debate. He gave impressive answers to the specific questions asked. I thought Palin's answers were over rehearsed and all over the place. Most of them ending up on the topics of energy & Alaska no matter what the original question was. The words darn and hockey mom just don't impress me. I think Palin performed better than anticipated and some people do like her attitude. People need to wake up because it's going to take more than a smile and a bit of attitude to turn this country around.

To Anderson and his team: Thanks for the great coverage. We in Jamaica are worried about the choice of Sarah Palin. We were appalled at her interview with Katie Couric and wondered what John McCain was thinking. While she has redeemed herself somewhat tonight there is still the worry that she is not seized of the facts and shows very little depth of knowledge of some important subjects. Because of the position of the United States in geo-politics it is important that its leaders show acumen in foreign policy and relations. As females, we here, are tempted to root for Sarah Palin even while favouring Barak Obama but we will not support a woman solely because of her gender she has to bring substance to the table.

It seems to me a lot of people consider Palin's informal down-home style to be endearing. I find it a bit grinding to the ears; it's almost like hearing a teenager trying to play house. And her referrals to being a Washington "outsider" annoy me a little bit too...is she admitting she is a 'spring chicken' with no experience? Or is she saying that she will be effective at doing her job because she has no idea what's going on? Anyway...Biden was a little....boring, I must add. Have to be objective, lol.

Anderson...great show..always well done! Canada had its own debate for our next Prime Minister running at the same time as the Palin-Biden debate. Most of my friends, myself included, tuned into CNN and watched Palin and Binden speak. I was shocked that Palin slammed Biden on the Obama proposal of health care reform. Hilary Clinton has a long record advocating on behalf of several million Americans who are uninsured and have lost homes due to health care costs. In Canada, health (care) of the nation comes first. Every Canadian has equal access to health coverage and subsequent care. I champion Biden, Obama and Clinton on this issue. I was also surprised how Palin bragged about being an American and human rights, when she slammed the rights of homosexuals. I respect her freedom to express her opinions; however, do they not conflict with one another? Perhaps Palin should return home and look out another window....she would see Canada. Oh and she wouldn't have to cross a bridge.

Go Obama Go.....80% of Canadians want you to win!!!

Chris

People say Palin's "natural, non-political" way of talking is a breath of fresh air. It's only a breath of fresh air if she knows what she is talking about, since she is running for a very important office. People say she didn't look dumb, but I feel she looked pretty dumb for a vice presidential candidate. She looked like she was about to pass out there at the end. She ran out of things to say in the middle and just kept repeating herself.

I feel that for Palin and company calling tonight a victory is just another clear demonstration of how out of touch their ticket really is. The fact that political pundits said that they were proud of her as a woman makes me laugh. Have we really made this an issue of good for the little lady from Alaska she stood up to a man yeah don't cha know! How about all she can do when challenged is fall back to what she did in Alaska and then say that they are "Mavericks". The final nail in her coffin was Biden's "Ultimate Bridge to nowhere comment, that was the best part of the night and the first response from the crowd! She did a great job of stating her coached answers but she lacks a true genuine feeling, just because you can look at the camera and smile does not make you real, it only makes you look like a cheerleader for McCain not a VP. A pretty face will not get you farther than substance in this case, as we have seen she has none, just canned pork answers!!

Gov. Palin definitely showed her ability to dodge tuff questions like her running mate McCain. They need to fire whoever is advising and prepping them, they have failed to swing me to their side. I am going with Obama/Biden in November. I'm sick of the smears on behalf of McCain and Palin just seems to be window dressing to sway women to their cause, well not this woman.

Sarah Palin did not embarass John McCain this evening. Does that make her qualified to potentially be President of the Unitied States? Is our criteria for President that shallow and superficial? Yes.

Sarah Palin is the Governor of Alaska, but she knows very little about America. Our next President should be a patriot and want to leave the country in capable hands if he cannot continue to lead. John McCain has picked a potential successor who has virtually no experience. John McCain's actions speak to how he will lead in the White House. If he cannot get his way, he will act erratically. Is America watching?

A maverick is not the same thing as a leader. My vote for the next President of the United States will be based on leadership. Who will inspire millions of Americans to carry the torch for the next generation? We have much work to do. While hope is not a strategy, no strategy can leave the harbor without it!

Again have to reinforce the error made by Senator Biden on the role of the VP as defined in Article 1 of the Constitution. Sen Biden says Article 1 only gives the VP power to vote in the event of a tie. I am forced to ask, What role is the President of the Senate as defined in Article 1 which created the Legislative Branch, not the executive branch as Sen. Biden points out. What do the framers define as a leadership role. They do use the words "President of the Senate." Few if any VP's have ever made their presence as President of the Senate a political importance for leadership of the Senate. Clearly the framers used the term President to define the 'leader of the nation,' why would the term be interpreted as different for the Senate.

Joe was great! Palin continues to be a disappointment. She never answered the question. By dodging the questions she looked even more stupid than she did on her previous interviews. I'm not a soccer mom and my husband isn't Joe Six Pack. I find statements like that very offensive. I work in the human service field and Joe Six Pack reminds me of a man who is an alcoholic and beats his wife, while his wife hides behind the children's school activities. And no one seems to question Palin's statement about tolerating gays and lesbians. No one wants to be tolerated they want to be treated fairly and with respect. I am tired of tolerating McCain/Palin, their lies, sarcasm and Palin's ignorance to domestic and foreign policies. Joe won this debate hands down. Palin is an idiot and it's obvious to smart people with common sense! I wish people would stop lying saying she did well tonight. I want a A/B president and not D/F one!

I have heard many comments that Sarah Palin is not "qualified". For the past 16 years under Clinton and Bush we have had "qualified" people in the white house, and that has landed us where we are today. She may be less politically savvy, less experienced, and not quick on her feet in answering questions, but I think, with a few exceptions, she has shown the use of common sense in governing Alaska. Something we haven't seen in Washington since the Reagan era.

What would happen if they took that 709,billion dollars and divided it among American citizens that are 18 years old and up? Then this money would truly help Americans and they would spend it spiraling the economy upwards. How dumb would this be? I will never see one penny of this $709,billion dollars and I live on $551.00 a month. Try doing this. I was main street America but not any more.

Why can't they do this? Why isn't that an option? Has anyone answered that? The money would be far more than $2500 for each adult person/taxpayer or head of household (whether 16, 17, and up).

Please just give me the facts. I am sick to death of your opions. What ever happen to the media just stating the facts ma. I am not stupid, most voters or not stupid. However, most voters rely on the sound bite to make their voting decision. So in fact most voters vote based on faulty information, simply because the media no longer does their job of reporting the facts. This is not a simple time with simple problems, yet the media does not understand that this is a very real problem time but continue to report, just the opions ma not the facts. Can we get rid of the best political team on tv and get the best informed team on tv. This is serious you people.

Sarah did just fine, she is great with energy and if she had campaigned as long as the other three candidates, she would be out doing them all! The news media like to ignore that fact! Biden of course knows more about the olden times in the Senate! Considering it all, she won!! She is down to earth, we need more of that.

A fifties gal!!

You have my vote Joe!

I am an Obama-Biden supporter. I believe that Sarah Palin went out at did exactly what she had to do and that was to live up to "low expectations". She did not support her position substantally but she did put on a happy face. Biden was extremely contained. You could almost see him busting at the seams for what he really wanted to say in the manner he really wanted to respond or expound. What struck me as odd is that throughout this entire campaign season I have not seen a moderator so constrained as was Gwen Ifill. It was almost as she had been put on center stage as well and was unable to conduct this debate in a manner which would have caused her to call Sarah Palin out on inadequacies in answers and her flat-out refusal to answer certain questions. I am outraged that those who lean Democratic are put under such scrutiny as to watch their P's and Q's and not hold those accountable who would be literally just a heart beat from the presidency. Gwen had been put under the microscope as if she were a candidate and unable to hold Palin to debate standards for she would have been seen by the right as being biased.

This debate was a joke just like the Presidential debate. John McCain seemed old and outdated. Sarah Palin was definitely prepped to death. Whe she couldn't answer a question she went back to old answers she had already given. Her answers were scripted and it was sooooo obvious. McCain is 72. God forbid she has to take over for him, this country would be in trouble big time. She would have to rely solely on her advisers. John Mccain picked her because he thought he would get the female vote. he insulted us, women are not stupid. Picking her was an insult to all women.

It is amazing to me that you guys think for us and tell us what we heard when it is not. The whole bunch needs to be thrown out. So what if you don't know what unique decisions the supreme court has made or if you have set down with foreign leaders...she could hardly do worse than the 3 Senators and their cohearts have done..don't u get it...we are all fed up..you want to tell what a low rating Bush has..and it is an embarassment to me, however the congress has a lower RATING....WHAT DOES THAT SEY...THEY ALL SUCK. VOTE AGAINST THE WELFARE BAILOUT...THE country will be alright

Gov Palin seemed to avoid answering a lot of the questions in the early parts of the debate. She definitely performed better than expected if you were not paying attention to her constant "return to the energy issue", what is up with the winking and weird accent. She also thinks the VP needs more constitutional authority WHAT!!!, preside more over the senate. Must be Dick's daughter.
Joe 'biden on the other hand upheld the top of his ticket rather well.

Well we have to have someone that has been in Washington for that experience. Obama and Biden are the Good part of Washington we need to run this country. The Fact is an outsider will not be able to clean this mess up.

Tell David Gergen that I (and many others) don't think this bailout will pass the House – and we're not sure if it should pass. I was on board the 1st chance they had to pass it but I don't understand how this is a better bill now.

I would support a very large economic stimulus payment like many people have referenced here on the blogs.

I like Palin. She is NOT Washington as usual. Her administrative record in Alaska speaks for her leadership ability. Obama and Biden ARE Washington's usual. (As could be said for McCain.) I see Palin as the only true option for change in America. Her anti-federalist political policy, and genuine concern for family values, along with her proven record, are what she should be judged by. She has a definite disadvantage, entering this race so late in the game. It's a shame we can't grade her on a curve.

I am so happy to read these blogs. I had to find out if someone had the same feelings about the debate as I did. When I head the New York Times columnist say that Palin "killed," I couldn't believe it. I thought there was no comparison between Joe Biden's knowledge of foreign affairs and governmental issues and Sarah Palin's taking points. I will admit that she did much better than I expected after the recent gaffs she has made, but that just proves that most of what she said were simply talking points. How do you go from making the huge mistakes she made recently to tonight’s performance without dodging questions and just using rehearsed lines? Joe Biden was very diplomatic. He was put in a very awkward situation. He really couldn’t go after her because he would have been criticized for it because she was a woman. All I could think of when I was listening was is she going to wink, wrinkle up her nose, say “you there”, and “dang” when speaking to foreign leaders and dignitaries. I would like to see a woman in the White House some day, but not Sara Palin. I think one of the biggest mistakes John McCain made was choosing Sarah Palin as his running mate. There was no comparison between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin in my eyes. You cannot say she “killed” simply because she didn’t make a fool of herself. If you look at how each of them answered the questions, Joe Biden simply outshined Sarah Palin.

Did anyone think she was anywhere near hillary clinton , ? Come on you can not vote because she is a woman, Hillary would eat her up and spit her out. They could'nt find a stronger woman than this?

I agree with Allison, we need to focus on the issues and clearly Palin is not fully aware of the issues or her position on the issues. Listen, this is not a popularity contest. Our country is at stake. Open your eyes people. Put race and politics aside. We can't afford to gamble with our future or our family's future any more. Listen, I would love to see a woman in the White House too, but this is not the woman. Barack and Biden have been consistent and actually have a well thought out plan. Mccain and Palin have been eratic, unclear, and evasive. The first thing you learn when running a business is you have to have a plan. America is the biggest business you could possible run. No plan, no way. Erratic in a time of crisis, I think not. Even Mccain doesn't believe what he is feeding us. Otherwise, he wouldn't be wavering back and forth on everything. And another thing, how can you say that you can cross party lines, when you can't even look someone in the face that you disagree with. He did not have enough respect for Obama during the debate to even look at him. This is definitely not someone who can negotiate with foreign leaders and precipitate bipartisanship.

Joe Biden conveyed the urgency of the greatest presidential issue at hand, survival of all America first...without our existence, the rest of the globe shall surely languish...Barack Obama, with or without extended experience, displays a unique ability to connect with middle America and address our outcry for leadership of the backbone of the country....Biden displayed inherent knowledge of all of American's concern...foreign foes and their activities will forever remain a high level of monitoring....but perhaps a new civil and direct approach has been sorely missed in what we call "foreign policy"...if both parties embrace change...what the hell is wrong with ringing up the Hatfields to meet the McCoys?

Let's just examine Palin's answers – no prejudice, just examine her answers – would someone please do this – Just edit – just present her remarks – this scares me – I am VERY scared. Now – imagine her face to face with, well let's say ANY foreign dictator – they would llaaaauugh in her face, and then push the button to detonate the, as she miss-pronounces it NEW-CUE-LAR bomb. Yes, I am scared, very scared.

Palin may not be a washington insider but boy is she ever a typical politician...!! didn't answer questions ..just used a repeat of the question and a few quick yes or no and then went into her memorized talking points... she didn't chant her mini speech points in robotic style but it was still obviious..they were coached..and memorized ... she may be able to recite and memorize but that doesn't mean she understands.. in a terror attic or crisis there is no time for coaching. ! ( i.e. 911 and how chaney made decisions ! )
Biden spoke from knowledge, and understanding of what he was saying.. it was obvious also..

palin .... Vibrant fresh and new and good at cramming... doesn"t make presidential potential ! .
If there had been follow up questions to her... or if she had gone first... she wouldn't even have known which mini speech to use . biden answered every question and that gave her , her lead in....
sorry sarah... we need a graduate... not a freshman... this is a country ! in a big world at stake..

Because my family's health insurance was through my job, that I no longer have, we no longer have health insurance. Cobra would have been $1,200 per month, only the wealthy can afford that per month and because my husband is a 6 year survivor of melanoma and I am a diabetic no one would even offer us coverage with the exception of BCBS. Guess how much coverage we could buy with McCain's $5,000?? One and one half month. Their coverage would cost us $3,400 per MONTH. My story is just one of hundreds of thousands of people who have pre-existing conditions and can't afford coverage. McCain doesn't have a clue!

To keep it short and sweet Palin look a puppet with no strings she keep devirtting answers. Personally I never got her point of you she ! And yes I'm one of 6 pack Joe's which thought was afensive.......

Was it just me .... or did anyone else notice that Palin use the words "I" and "Me" a lot more than she should have ? There were more than a few times when she should have been using the plurals "We" and "Us" when talking about the republican party and the McCain/Palin ticket. Almost like she was distancing herself from both at times.

The second thing I noticed was that in the K.C. interview, she made everyone aware that Alaska was not a foreign country. But last night she seemed to be separating Alaska out and pointing out that, in a sense, it was .... because she did things differently there.

Finally, she rambled too much and couldn't stay focused. Some say she was putting herself back into her 'comfort zone'. The people want clear and concise answers ... not meanadering responses that have nothing to do with the original question or subject.

I would have to give her a C- at best.

Did anyone else cringe when Palin used the word "nuculer"? I thought her father was a teacher? I can think of only one person when I hear that word, G Dubya! His use of that word has always bothered me because it signifies his stubborness to change even if he is wrong! Are we looking at the female version of Bush?

IF Obama get's elected,you will have considerably less CHANGE, for your family,out of every dollar you make.You already work over 2 days a week to pay the government,you're WANTING to work more for Obama??

Joe Biden gave me hope and perspective. Sarah Palin is a joke and an insult to intelligent Americans. What person interviews for a job (which essentially is what she is doing) and has no clue what the job is?

Palin did better than expected until she used the work "Maverick" for the 6th or 7th time. Does she know any other adjectives?

My father used to say "never underestimate the stupidy of the american people when it comes to politics." Man, are those of you that are happy with Gov. What's her Name proving that statement prophetic. Come on, she is clearly not cut out to run anything, much less a troubled country. Trying to blame their own failures on the most recent Democratic congress is nothing new. Heck, they even try to say that many of today's problems extend back to the Clinton administration. Let's get real. The republicans have proven over and over and over that their platforms do not work. They have repeatedly failed and try to cover that failure with cutesy word smithing and attempts to mislead americans. If you make less than $500,000/year, you should have your head examined for even thinking of voting these elitists back into office. Heaven help us all of if they win again.

I thought this was an unbiased news station? I know people are entitled to their opinions but not as a suppoesed unbiased analyst. Roland Martin has not given credit to anything but his very biased opinion. I really enjoy David Bergens' analysis because he IS very Unbiased. Shut Roland Martin up!!!

It is time that CNN and their bunch of nobody commentators present the news as an independent and not as Democrat or Republican. specially the women that sit and offer their constantly negative opinion about the republican party like Berger and Brown. First they were so strong oposing Hillary and now Palin. I feel that the Obama team is paying them lots of money to make the news lean on the democratic side. it is time to investigate these people. you all make lots of money and really makes no difference who end up in the white house. your job is to open your mouth and say what ever you want and then make it sound "we keep it honest" so it can add validity to your comments.

we the average people who try to work in this country when every company try so hard to take the american job offshore, we want the real news. I thought CNN is that kind of news.

Also about the bail out, to bail out those companies is like they have no responsibility like the people we bought houses and then foreclose. they kept firing american people so they can use the excuse that they need more offshore people and now they want the american people to feel sorry for them.

Global market is not for american company to try to push job offshore but not for everyone else. I should be able to shop for a house loan in any country in the world that offer me the best rate not just within this country. I should be able to buy the best insurance for me and my family can efford from any where in the world. that is Global market.

It is very interesting how politician and American company defined Global market.

"Sarah Palin is after money. She doesnot care anything about the American people. You can tell there are rough times in Alaska. If John Mccain is elected we will be on the ROAD TO NO WHERE AND on THE TITANIC. Both are disastrous. The American people have to be smarter this time because it is crucial.". The Repub don't have any one else. John Mccain is already senile."