Palin v. Biden: A Close Call on Who Wins

by Elizabeth Porter

KALAMAZOO – After much speculation about whether Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin would hold up against Senator Joe Biden in the first and only vice-presidential debate of the election season, it seems that, even with the low public expectations set for her performance, Palin and Biden were equally matched to the challenge. The debate, which aired live from Washington University in St Louis last night, was highly anticipated by both the Republican and Democratic parties as a pivotal event in determining the outcome of the quickly-approaching elections.

A week after pollsters have reported significant drops in support for the McCain candidacy, all eyes were on Sarah Palin as her ability to debate and the pressure of the task-at-hand were largely questioned by the public. Palin set the casual tone for the night by introducing herself to Biden and asking, “Hey, can I call you Joe?” as she shook hands with the senator. As Palin and Biden argued, at time heatedly, about issues ranging from taxes and healthcare to the Iraq War and gay marriage, both directly addressed the American people, looking straight into the camera.

Several political barbs were exchanged by both candidates. Palin repeatedly questioned Biden on his record in the Senate. “Oh, yeah, it's so obvious I'm a Washington outsider. And someone just not used to the way you guys operate. Because here you voted for the war and now you oppose the war,” said Palin. Biden in turn stated his views of the McCain healthcare plan as inadequate. “I call that the "Ultimate Bridge to Nowhere,” said Biden of the plan.
While the winner of last night’s debate is still unclear, one thing is certain: both candidates held their own against intense public speculation. It is estimated that over 50 million people watched the debates last night, an unprecedented number.