Recap by Matt Koos ’13

Tuesday night’s Presidential debate at Hofstra University was an hour and a half of zingers and attacks, made easier by the “town hall” format, which allowed the candidates to walk the room and speak with audience members.

Both President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney had moments of weakness and strength, debating everything from the economy to immigration and gun control.

What We Learned:

The economy and tax plans were a focal point, just as they were in the first debate. Romney again confronted the President on the still weak economy, but was less successful this time around. The Republican candidate touted his “Five Point Plan” for jobs and growth, but remained vague on details of his proposed reductions in spending.

Obama pointed to the success of his fiscal policies. He spoke of the rise in employment numbers the past 31 months and a dip in the unemployment rate, mentioning the rejuvenation of the car market in Detroit as perhaps his biggest success. He also made it clear that more needs to be done, and that only he can finish the job.

Obama used some of the attack points he had neglected in the first debate, such as Romney’s infamous “47 percent” comment. He was able to connect well with the audience, appealing to women voters when he talked about equal pay for both genders and funding for Planned Parenthood

Romney appeared vague and confused on women’s issues and immigration, but his biggest missed opportunity was regarding Libya. On a topic where many thought Romney could condemn the President, he fell short and was even chastised by the moderator for misstating facts.

There were tense moments during the night when the candidates argued face to face and moderator, CNN’s Candy Crowley, struggled to keep control (though she was still superior to the moderator of the first debate).

All in all, the “town hall” format created a nice change of pace for the candidates, but it was clear that the President was more comfortable in the setting.

Bottom Line:

Barack Obama won the second Presidential debate, and while it was not a knockout, it was a clear and decisive victory. Since Romney’s victory in the first debate, the race has been extremely close, especially in key battleground states like Florida and Virginia. Last night’s victory should give Obama a little breathing room. Still, this is sure to be a close race.