In Review: Presidential Debate

The media have had their go at the presidential debate since it occurred on Oct. 3, and there seem to be few variations on the same broad consensus: Republican candidate Mitt Romney beat incumbent President Barack Obama. Some attribute this to Romney's tact and success in the debate, as well as his constant debate preparation the past few months. Others like myself, however, attribute this to Obama's strategy to not challenge or attack Romney.Anybody who watched the debate and studied Romney's policy plans at all would know that what he said at the debate was not in accordance with what he has been telling voters in the last few months. He obscured the facts of his tax plan and presented his health care plan with a lack of specificity that misled viewers.Now, as a journalist, to cry on and on about Romney's political tactics would be incredibly naive; Romney was being political, even if he teetered on the edge of flat out lying. The real problem lies in Obama’s choice to not  call Mitt Romney on his points. Sure, Romney pretty much lied to the face of the nation, but it is Obama's job, opposite Romney, to rectify these lies before they affect the voting population. Unfortunately for the Obama campaign, the incumbent sacrificed these opportunities, all so that he could avoid looking angry and maintain his calm, collected image.And aside from the lies, Obama also completely avoided opportunities for further debate; for one, Obama presented social security as if he and Romney have the same plan, which is not at all the case. Obama could have won that aspect of that debate, but now swing voters will believe that Obama and Romney see social security benefits in the same light.Such missteps on Obama's part are also evidenced by his campaign tactics in the aftermath of the debate; from Facebook posts to rally speeches, Obama has provided ample criticism of Romney that would have been so much more effective the night of the debate.Although he did change the game quite a bit, Romney was by no means an outstanding debater on Wednesday. Obama knows the issues, and by all means has the potential to bring this election to a close with a strong debate. But unless he stops being ‘the nice guy’ and kicks his attack into high gear, Obama is going to find himself steamrolled.mgumbel@thesamohi.com