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Talking heads were critical of Hilary for not going after the many Trump flubs. For example, she mentioned major Republican standards recently renouncing their support for Trump. But she did not make those points bluntly to so many who did not know who those Republican standards are (ie John McCain). She was criticized for making statements that assumed listener knew facts; for not defining those facts to so many who ignore real news.
Trump focused his attacks without becoming befuddled this time. But is again criticized for doing much taking while providing no substance.
Curious is why Trump would constantly talk over Martha Raddatz and not Anderson Cooper. Few talking heads mentioned that. Raddatz also repeatedly interrupted Trump asking him to answer the question. Trump is great at answering questions with talk that sidesteps questions and, again, provides no substance.
Talking heads praise Trump for successfully stopping his downfall. He did not gain new supporters. But his performance successfully stopped an exodus of supporters. To most talking heads, that was Trump's victory in a debate that was otherwise a draw.
And no, I do not hear talking heads declare victory or defeat for either candidate. They are often a best source of what was really said in these debates. Since their criticisms and highlights go both ways.
Best ignored are the interviews with party officials. They cannot tell the truth. Will even lie. However their behavior sometimes reflects a more honest assessment. Christie refused to talk to reporters after the first debate. A Trump campaign official gave Trump a big hug after this last debate. From talking heads: what was probably a draw this time was also success for Trump due to his self inflicted campaign implosion.
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