New York Governor David Paterson was tuning in to tonight's debate just as closely as any other voter out there. And he had this to say after Barack Obama's winning performance:
"Tonight Barack Obama once again showed Americans why he is ready to be our next President. He articulated his plans to implement economic reforms that will guide us through the current crisis and provide the relief and stability that Main Street needs.
The Governor continues below the fold...
He is prepared to work toward energy independence and create new, greens jobs, put in place a health care plan that will cover every American, and make college affordable.
While Senator McCain reiterated his commitment to the unsuccessful policies of the Bush Administration, Senator Obama has laid out new plans for our country. An Obama presidency will provide us with the steady leadership we need."
Governor Paterson is a voice of authority in this election for a number of reasons. For starters, he governs the state that is home to ground zeros on the financial crisis (Wall Street, of course). He also knows a thing or two about breaking certain barriers as a chief executive (he is African-American as well as legally blind). And he was a voter who had to change his mind as a former Super Delegate for Obama's primary campaign rival, Sen. Hillary Clinton.
No grain of salt needs to be taken with this statement.
My point of view on who won the debate?
That one.