McCain had the best line of the night: "I am not George Bush". But Obama was far stronger on what I think--and hope--are far more significant to independents--and that's where the race will be decided. Obama took McCain's health care plan apart before his eyes--especially pointing out that McCain's plan will very likely result in many sick and needy losing coverage as their employers drop their own coverage when the young and healthy flee to cheaper plans, and the employers raise their rates to cover the new situation. I've seen this prediction also in the WSJ.

For some people, the "I'm all right Jack" attitude embraced by McCain is just fine. For anybody concerned about fairness, however, it's abominable--and typical of the Bush/McCain policies--since in many respects they are identical--despite McCain's good line in the debate.

Obama was also very strong in describing how we can create new jobs in the US in the emerging "green economy"--starting with more efficient cars.

And McCain slit his own throat, right on cue--and as predicted-- by dragging Ayers into
the debate. Obama was ready for him. And McCain's negative campaigning was put on display for the whole country to see. Negative campaigning is a loser in attracting independents--and anybody else who thinks.