CNN polls revealed that Perot had won the first debate and Bush was struggling after doing a study following the first debate. Clinton held his ground and was entering the second debate full of confidence, mainly because of its format. ABC’s Carol Simpson was moderator and the format was a town hall style. Questions were asked directly by the audience, the first time we have seen any such style (pomper). Clinton had been holding “electronic town halls” regularly and enjoyed the interaction with voters (pomper), and it showed.
second debate- October 15th, 1992, Richmond University, town hall style format.
The above video shows a significant moment in debate history. A question had been proposed regarding the recession and Bush was caught on camera looking at his watch as if he had other important things to do. He fumbled with the answer regarding how it has effected him and Clinton followed up with a personal, real and revealing answer showing his ability to connect with the American people.
These iconic images are memorable for the 1992 debate season. Because this project emphasizes the importance of all candidates being on a stage together and presented to the public visually, viewers are exposed to the character of Bill Clinton. He is seen in the picture above looking into the woman’s eyes as he answers her question. He is showing how important their problems are to him. In contrast, we see a picture above of Bush being asked a question and checking his watch. Moments like that effect how people perceive you. The image and television aspect of this debate exposed to the people that George Bush may have better things to do and was not fully engulfed in the questioners problem. There is a correlation between their behavior and the polls the following day, calculating who won the debate. These simple actions may have stiffened Clinton’s advantage, ultimately winning the election.
first half debate transcript , second half debate transcript (COD)
full video debate (C-SPAN)
The following interviews were done on independent voters who had just watched the second debate. The answers help solidify what most people saw and felt following the newly introduced town hall format. (PBS’s Charlayne Hunter-Gault)
JAMBEY CLINKSCALES: Well, Clinton has moved me a little bit tonight with his sincerity, and it seems that Bush had settled on blaming the Congress for not getting his bills enacted, so it seems as though if Clinton can hold his own and if Bush doesn’t come up with something really, really dramatic, then I’m still going to be leaning towards Clinton.
MS. HUNTER-GAULT: But by this debate tonight, will you — did you get any closer?
ROBIN GANZERT: My mind’s almost already made up as well. I’m with Jason, except I’m for Clinton
SCOTT MacCORMACK: I will make my mind up after the last debate. I’m close. I’m tired of this too. I’m worn out, and I will decide.
Upon reading these excerpts Clinton’s sincerity, and ability to connect with the audience favored him. Also telling of the significance of debates is MacCCORMACK’S response in which he says he will make up his mind after the 3rd debate. Viewers are moved by what they hear and see.
