Millions tuned in for the vice presidential debate to see how Gov. Sarah Palin would stack up against Sen. Joe Biden. How does the “newcomer” fare when up against the “known commodity”? Part of me wished last night wasn’t the only time you’d get to see the two of them side by side.

Some people might think it’s all about the top of the ticket – that’s who voters will look to in deciding whom they will cast ballots for in November. What happened to the belief that the selection of a vice president is the first great test of a potential president, and therefore the first opportunity for our next president to show his or her judgment?

I think Sen. Obama and Sen. McCain’s choices do speak volumes. It was great last night to see the people they selected and try to understand why they were chosen and what they offer. Palin came off strong at the beginning. She showed that she was no shrinking violet and would be forceful in her presentation. She went at Sen. Obama (which is what analysts said would be crucial), she attacked Biden (pointing out key differences between him and his running mate) and she consistently praised her own running mate.

Biden, too, came off strong. He showed that he’s a lawyer by training and a political veteran. But early on he seemed tentative, and not because he was nervous, as he looked comfortable enough. You could tell he was trying not to be too forceful and make it seem as if he were picking on Gov. Palin. His mistake early on: taking it too easy.

At times you wondered whether Palin understood that the straight talk she repeatedly referred to would serve her better if she answered a question directly.

Her comment about not answering the questions the way the senator or the moderator would like was not my favorite moment.

A fun moment as M3 noted in his live blog was “Can I call you Joe?”

Palin proved she knows how to stay charming while being completely comfortable carving up opponents.

Biden showed that his experience could help Obama.

Politicians from both sides of the aisle often talk about shared leadership and bipartisan support. It’s true that, in many cases, consensus is required to achieve governing goals. In many cases, the vice president (and others in the White House) do the legwork of building support and rounding up votes. 

If that’s the logic, then Biden has the upper hand.

If we say that any successful candidate come Nov. 2 has to represent some element of change, Palin helps McCain. She’s certainly an outsider, a new face, constantly vowing to fight for the average person. Voters I’m convinced won’t ignore it.

What voters I think will ask is: Who can do a better job of bringing about change? Who can right the ship on domestic and international issues?

Overall, I’d say it was a draw. No one crashed and burned, but I didn’t really learn anything new. They battled over their and their running mates’ records, but it all seemed to be from talking points.

Would either make a great president if necessary?

I remain undecided truly (and besides if I had decided after last night, I really couldn’t tell you anyway).

Talk to me.

Comment below or e-mail me cenelson at gmail dot com.

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