Mark Halperin's Service Forum Report Cards
Obama
Authority
Seemed a touch nervous after a difficult few weeks, and much less formal than McCain. Used his own long history of community involvement as the foundation for his message, and was able to speak convincingly about the merits and parameters of public service. Forward-looking and no-nonsense. Became more fired up when talking about several of his major campaign themes–changing the bitter tone of political discourse and encouraging early, committed civic participation—but still was somewhat antiseptic throughout.
Clarity
Generally successful at conveying his own meticulously constructed public service agenda. Having given many aspects of the issue careful thought and attention, he had much to say on the topic, which at times impeded his fluency. Managed to praise small-town mayors without letting Palin and the Republicans off the hook for belittling his years as a community organizer. Was at his best when incisively explaining how that early experience provided insight and groundwork for his future as a politician.
Credibility
Discussed 9/11 and the varied ramifications of evil and heroism in a detached and intellectual manner. Views on service and responsibility seemed to derive authentically from his personal life experience and political platform. Increasingly comfortable talking about the cultural, human, and national security aspects of the military.
Audience reaction
Received an enthusiastic greeting from the home audience of his alma mater that was filled with the type of young people that make up his base, although his opening joke about Columbia-area housing prices fell a little flat. Sporadic squeals from the excitable crowd served as distractions, but the frequent bursts of applause bolstered his answers and confidence.
Overall
Was engaged in and energized by the topic, despite his apparent fatigue. With the media spotlight still focused on Palin, seemed more intent than ever on winning the White House and the opportunity to do the big job (and “make government cool again”). Offered more specifics than McCain, but at this stage of the game, Obama still has more to prove.
Grade: A-
McCain:
Authority
Reprised the crisp style that served him so well at the recent Saddleback forum, in front of a much different audience. Seemed presidential, on message, confident. Called politics a “tough business,” and was firmly on the offensive when reproaching Obama for not participating in town meetings during the first months of the general election cycle. Unwavering in his own beliefs.
Clarity
Able to define his views on the purpose of government and service, and expound on the topic. Seemed genuinely engaged when talking about volunteer work and government responsibility. Directly took on host Columbia University's policy of banning ROTC on campus.
Credibility
Effectively humble about his own sterling military record. Gave a shaky, disingenuous reply when asked to defend attacks on Obama's past as a community organizer.
Audience reaction
Polite, receptive, laughed easily at his jokes.
Overall
Was commanding yet relaxed, confident yet earnest – and less robotic and rote than he sometimes is at such forums. Got into a nice groove early on and never lost it. Clearly feeling the Palin-powered momentum, and allowing it to shore up his own natural moxie. Had kind words for Ted Kennedy and Obama, but smartly was able to weave in his differences with the opposition. Appeared utterly comfortable with the moderators and the audience—as always, gives his finest, most appealing performances when he is true to himself.
