Following Gov. Sarah Palin and Sen. Joseph Biden's vice presidential debate on Thursday night, USC political science professor and South Carolina politics expert Blease Graham shared his thoughts on the debate. Graham, a native South Carolinian, has taught at USC for 38 years. He co-authored a book on South Carolina politics, and he is looked upon nationwide as an expert on South Carolina issues.
Q: So who won the debate?
A: "I think it was a win-win for both parties. Each participant did better than they were expected to do."
Q: Did either candidate show weaknesses?
A: "At times, Gov. Palin still looked a little vague and seemed not to be able to answer fairly detailed questions, or at least reveal details when asked about her assertions about us fighting for freedom."
Q: But you still think she had a good showing?
A: "Compared to the interviews being played this week, she did well and didn't need a lifeline. (A reference to the Tina Fey skit on Saturday Night Live.) I don't think they'll have much to parody in her performance this week."
Q: What do you think of the events of the last few weeks with Gov. Palin?
A: "At first, her entering the race was very exciting. Then it was a fade. But I think she's showing she's a quick learner and will turn out to be a credible candidate."
Q: What did Sen. Biden do well?
A: "I thought he was right on target extolling the virtues of a presidential candidate. He showed an impressive knowledge of foreign affairs in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also explained a position change well, telling the American people he changed for thoughtful reasons and not just for political purposes."
Q: How do you think this changes the election?
A: "I don't think it changes the race much at all. People vote for the presidential candidates and not the vice presidential candidates. Both parties focused more on the top of their ticket during the debate."
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