An immediate look at the post-debate “insta” snapshots suggest that a gain for the president is possible. The CBS/Knowledge Networks poll of undecided voters had Obama winning the debate 37% to 30%. A Public Policy Polling survey of debate watchers in the swing state of Colorado gave Obama a 48% to 44% edge. A CNN/ORC nationwide poll of debate watchers pegged Obama the winner 46% to 39%.
These wins are solid, especially considering that debate watchers tend to be a few more points Republican. They suggest that, if nothing else, it’s unlikely that Obama will lose ground. The question as to whether he will gain any is more in doubt. [cont.]
Harry Enten, The Guardian