An International Look at the Denver Debate

An International Look at the Denver Debate Photo from Facebook.com by University of Denver Some time passed and my flatmates came back. Not much had happened excitement-wise on my screen, so I lowered the volume and invited them to come in and talk while I watched. Of course, in the U.S., we always say that its rude to discuss religion and politics in social settings, but what Ive found here is that within minutes of finding out that youre American, the English want to know your opinion on the election. Its best to have your answer prepared to be discussed at length. Two of my British flatmates and two of my American flatmates sat with me that night and what I noticed most was that not only did the Brits know far more about the election and the politics of America, but they  cared more. They nearly fell out of their chairs, mouths agape, when one of the Americans told us that she didnt plan on voting in this election because she simply didnt really have any sort of opinion on who won. From there, we began a debate of our own on why or why not one should vote in an election. While a few jokes were tossed around about escaping Britain for freedom, the main point of discussion came down to the fact that though we have the right to vote, there seems to be no good candidate to vote for. In England, Obama is seen as an extremely smooth and cool president, and thanks to Romneys gaffe during the London Olympics, hes not at all well-received here. However, it seems to me that because Englands own politics are a bit in shambles right now, they see the American struggles as merely a bump in the road; in short, they think Obama is doing well enough.  In that way, theyre right. He is doing well enough, but not great, and thats the problem that most Americans have with him. I will be honest and tell you that I chose to have this discussion over watching the end of the debate. I felt that it was more important to get the global perspective on things rather than watch two grown men have a pissing match, repeating their meagre platforms that will probably never become more than that. I have heard that Romney won this debate, that Obama seemed careless and unprepared, but it all means nothing because unless they create truly moving points to sway the opinions of voters, rather than focusing on bashing one another. No one will care unless they give them a reason to, except maybe the Brits, but remember, they cant vote.