The Presidential Debate in 90 Seconds

I forgot to mention this tonight in class but this is about as video manipulation as you can. Reducing a 90 minute debate to 90 seconds. Buckle up.


While its obviously gimmicky, it does provide the viewer with a suprisingly efficient summation of the night's events. It really works to point out many of the topics that we discussed tonight in class. In particular, the moment of the rapid repetition of Reagan stands out as we discussed. The McCain campaign recognizes that for them to align themselves with the current White House would be political suicide. However, for conservatives and even the so-called "Reagan Democrats", the Reagan administration was a shining light in conservative presidencies, one fondly remembered by right wingers around the country.

If McCain/Palin can effectively denote the ticket as a Reagan/Bush for the 21st century, its something the conservative base would most likely rally around, a key issue for the campaign, especially after the events with the economic bailout falling through today. As many are reporting, McCain came back to Washington last week promising to rally the House GOPs. He was unable to do that, with roughly 60% of House Republicans voting down the bill. So not only has McCain been unable to get something done in Washington, the whole reason for the campaign suspension, he also had to endure the hullabaloo that ensued (as we highlighted tonight).