Shhhh! Do You Hear It?

When I watched the Presidential Debate between Sen. John McCain and Sen. Barack Obama, I couldn't help but to remember what is often referred to as "The Great Debate." The Great Debate took place in 1960 between former Presidents John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. However, what stuck out most to me was the idea of when winning a debate visually over when a debate audibly - an idea which was bounced around a great deal during a time when many people relied heavily on non-visual forms of communication, such as radios.

So, I closed my eyes (well, not really) and listened to the debate.




I found that Sen. McCain's voice was rather low. It was almost as if he whispered into the microphone at various times. There were also numerous times when he paused to search to words. Now, just let me say, I am not upset with a politician who chooses their diction carefully. But, when one takes too long to search for the right words, one runs the risk as coming off as indecisive. And what really annoyed me the most, where the coughs that McCain riddled his speech with towards the beginning of the debate.

Sen. Obama's voice was firm. He raised his voice when he attempted to make strong points. Obama came off as being very assertive and definitive. He answered questions quickly for the most part. However, there were a couple times when he, like McCain, searched for the right word. Obama also used facts and figures frequently during this debate. The use of numbers helps to depict a more clear and concise picture of the notion that is being conveyed.

So if you ask me who won the debate audibly, I would say Obama. However, visually I would say that the winner may depend on one's personal preferences.

Why personal preferences? Well, if you prefer a candidate looks very stoic and serious while in the heat of battle, then McCain is your man. He did not crack a smile. He began the debate with a somber, yet partially inaccurate, comment about Sen. Ted. Kennedy (Kennedy was already released from the hospital, although McCain says he was in the hospital). McCain maintained his apparent anger through the night. But, this may have worked for many Americans, as Americans have many reasons to be rather angry themselves.

However, Sen. Obama had an opposite approach. He looked directly into the camera and addressed the voters at home. He turned to McCain when McCain spoke. But, the key difference can be seen in Obama's response to what he argued to be untruths. Obama smiled at statements that he would soon refute. He did not show anger or frustration. He appeared very cool and collective at all times, even when firing back. So, to those Americans who desire a rational, cool-headed leader, Obama came off in a good light.