I don’t know that I have any unique perspective to add to the Biden-Palin debate. I think the c.w. is more or less correct that Palin avoided disaster–largely by sidestepping the questions and sticking to McCain campaign talking points (tax cuts! victory! maverick!). Probably not enough to turn the campaign around, but it may have solidified some wavering Republicans. Also: the cutesy-folksy stuff drives me up a wall (winking at the camera!).

Biden did well–he kept himself in check and on message. Loved that he made the point about the unitary executive and Cheney being the most dangerous VP in American history (though wouldn’t Aaron Burr have given him a run for his money?). I disagree with a lot of what Biden says about foreign policy, but it’s clear that he knows what he’s talking about (unlike the governor, who was at her weakest here).

Like a number of people said, nobody votes on the VP debate, and there were no major gaffes or zingers. The McCain campaign is still losing ground. They thought they got a “game-changer” (can we retire that phrase already?) with Palin, but at this point merely avoiding catastrophe is what passes as a victory for them.