The Big 2 Takes on the Debate

Washington Post -- The candidates repeatedly tried to offer criticisms of the president, especially on the economy, attacking Bush's tax cuts as fiscally irresponsible and a failure in helping the economy create new jobs. They also attacked his record on civil liberties, arguing that in the name of the war on terrorism, they were jeopardizing basic American values. But they spent much of the evening arguing with one another over policy and who is the most electable.

Graham cited his record in Florida as both a senator and a governor and said, "I represent the electable wing of the Democratic Party."

NY Times -- Democrats' First Presidential Debate Shows Party Fissures

The tensions between Dr. Dean and Mr. Kerry were particularly evident; Mr. Stephanopoulos goaded them a bit, but it did not take much. Dr. Dean scowled openly as Mr. Kerry spoke.

It fell to Mr. Edwards to play the peacemaker. "Whatever personal differences exist, Governor Dean or Senator Kerry — either one would be a better president than the one we have," he said.