The Hiller Instinct: Presidential Debate Winner

Tonight, McCain didn't get what he needed, so Obama's lead shouldn't be threatened.

The take away: with four weeks to go until the election, McCain is running out of time, and Obama can run out the clock.

Both candidates improved from their last debate: both answered questions more directly, and offered more specific solutions. McCain was more personable, less brittle, and benefited from the town meeting format, which is his favorite.

Obama was less aloof than he was the first time around, more conversational and more comfortable. Both had some good lines, but neither said anything that will never be forgotten.

Winner: Obama.

Barack Obama was the winner tonight, thanks largely to the dynamics of this race, and all the news of a collapsing economy. McCain cannot escape from his record in Washington, and Obama didn't let him.

What we watched was a low-energy debate in a long campaign that's been filled with high drama, which, now is ending with a plop, not a pop!

Maybe we shouldn't be surprised: if you've been exhausted watching, imagine what it's like for the candidates who are still running.

I'm Andy Hiller and that's my instinct.

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