Sen. Barack Obama, D-Il., presented a weak performance in his first nationally televised debate April 26. His act was marred by hesitation, and a tongue-tied presentation style that did little to impress either viewers or pundits.
Over the past few months, Obama has managed to catapult himself to the top of the Democratic contender list for the nomination of the party in 2008. He has raised a tremendous amount of money and has given Hillary Clinton a run for her money in the all important Hollywood primary.
Yet, watching Obama on the stage with the seven other candidates, there was something missing. He did little to impress and rambled on in his answers seldom getting to the root of the moderator's question.
Obama's performance left many wondering why they had been so quick to jump on his bandwagon as nothing special ruminated from his persona.
And, when the question came that he could have knocked out of the ballpark, he fumbled. Obama was asked what would he do if a 9-11 type of attack happened in the United States. Obama's answer was weak, tentative, and shallow. Hillary Clinton took the question next and hit a real homer. She talked about the need for prudence, but also the need to defend the nation and retaliate against who was determined to be responsible.
For his part, Obama recognized the bobble immediately and tried to come back and cash in on some of Hillary's response. But it was too late. Obama showed he did not think like a commander in chief.
Obama watchers have claimed that he will falter under the stress of a debate and does better when he is the only one on stage. Thus, the singularity propels him into idolatry status. Nevertheless, this is a long race to the White House and he is going to have to think fast on his feet to compete.
For months many have questioned whether Obama “is the real thing” or a creation of the media. It is apparent after his performance Thursday night that he is just that, someone created by the media.
The media has shown over the past few months a distain for Hillary Clinton's style and personality. In many people's eyes she was the heir to the nomination. By creating the Obama buzz, media members have sparked an interest in the race for the White House earlier in the political season than ever before.
Media created interest where there was little and a horse race where there was none. Ironically, after this first televised debate, the same media members found themselves asking “where was the magic.” Or, as conservative Pat Buchanan stated, “ Is Obama an empty suit?”
Regardless, Obama's performance proved he is not yet ready for the big time and the Democratic nomination. His references during the debate to his tenure in the Illinois legislature became a start reminder as to his lack of experience. Nevertheless, Obama does have a great deal of potential and could prove a dynamic force if chosen as a vice presidential running mate. But as for now, he is not ready for the big time.
