They're Off and Running

We're moderate political junkies. Like some people are sports enthusiasts, we follow politics. It's not the political race itself, but it's ABOUT the political race that interests us - the personalities, the strategies, the rhetoric and counter-rhetoric, the drama, the commentary, the historical significance, etc.
Geo and I are among the few who intently watched the first Democrat debate. The only "fireworks" I could see was between Rep. Dennis Kucinich and Sen.Barack Obama who took him on. Sen. Obama "scored points" on that exchange.
The whole debate was overall boring except for the entertaining former Senator from Alaska, Mike Gravel. He is turning out to be the "Al Sharpton" of this crew. Sen. Clinton certainly presented herself well, looking most comfortable of everyone on stage. Sen. Edwards surprised me with his philosophical clarity on the US being viewed once again as a force for good in the world, including some practical applications, but he appears a little too blow-dried, too "packaged" with his $400 haircut, for widespread appeal to the electorate. Governor Richardson was sweating so profusely, I couldn't help but wonder what he'd do in the Oval Office when he'd really be under pressure. And Sen. Dodd and Sen. Biden? What else is new...
Chris Matthews was certainly gushing over Sen.Obama over and again, post debate. He's becoming Sen. Obama's number one cheerleader. On the other hand, Matthews usually brings up "Hillary's unfavorability rating." Seems Matthews wants to take her down a peg to see a real battle ensue between Clinton and Obama. Eventually, a Clinton/Obama ticket could be powerful. Obviously, the country is looking for change, big-time. A Presidential candidate of the female persuasion with a running mate who identifies as an African American would be defining change for our country.
And Keith Olbermann? I do like his new glasses.