Clinton wins the debate

Hillary Clinton said much in one line: “I think Donald just criticised me for preparing for this debate. And, yes, I did. You know what else I prepared for? I prepared to be President. And I think that’s a good thing.” Her opponent showed some impulse control, and aggressively attacked her. He had her against the ropes for some time. She was effective in raising a number of issues that left him reeling — his racism, sexism, refusal to release his tax returns, the ‘birther’ controversy regarding President Barack Obama and “stiffing” contractors who worked for him. He hit back with comments about various US trade deals, her e-mail fiasco, and even questioned her stamina. 

In the debate between a salesman and a politician, it was the latter that scored — on facts and even on that nebulous “being presidential” matrix. Not much was expected from Trump at the debate, and not much was on show. Yet for his supporters, that would be enough. The bar was set higher for Hillary. She found her feet after some floundering. When she did, she was devastating. Even as analysts have pronounced her the winner, it will take time for the real effects of the debate to percolate down to the American voters. 

Debates have a particular significance in the American electoral system, and since 1960 they have been on TV. Not all debates are conclusive, but they are an integral part of the election process, one that helps undecided voters to make up their mind. There are two more debates. In the next two rounds Clinton will have to sustain her sturdy steadfastness against the appeal of a self-styled “outsider”, unimpressed with conventional politicians and their presumed superior knowledge and experience. The pressure of a tight race will increase on both candidates. But then the position both seek is one that is all about dealing with pressure. Americans are watching them, as is the rest of the world.