Last Monday’s debate drew in 83 million people, according to the Guardian, which surpassed the Reagan-Carter debate in 1980. Each candidate had obviously used different tactics to prepare; making their performances vastly different. Debates are more like performances because of how debate prep is done. Normally each candidate prepares by having someone on their staff play the opponent and drill them on the tough answers.
Before reading this, I should be transparent. I am a long-time Hillary supporter and these views may influence my debate response.
Top comeback from the night: Two-way tie.
“As soon as he travels to 112 countries and negotiates a peace deal and a cease fire, a release of dissidents, an opening of new opportunities in nations around the world or even spends 11 hours testifying in front of a congressional committee, he can talk to me about stamina,” Hillary Clinton said.
“I think Donald just criticized me for preparing for this debate. And yes, I did,” Clinton said. “And you know what else I prepared for? I prepared to be President, and I think that’s a good thing.”
Biggest Lie of the night.
“I did not — I did not — I do not say that. I do not say that,” Donald Trump said on saying he never said that climate change was a hoax created by the Chinese.
History making of the night
“Somebody who’s been very vicious to me, Rosie O’Donnell, I said very tough things to her and I think everyone would agree that she deserves it and nobody feels sorry for her,” Trump said.
Why is this history?
Well I am pretty sure Rosie O’Donnell has never been mentioned in a debate before.
Who Won?
FORTUNE: Clinton
CBS NEWS: Clinton
The Atlantic: Clinton
Another great thing that happened during the debate was the abundance of live fact checkers. I really enjoyed NPR’s.
If you missed the debate, check out the NY Times recap.