Style Over Everything

Ain't this a bitch. Rush Limbaugh just said on his show that people will remember the substance of President Bush's answers in last night's debate long after they remember his style. (I'm assuming Rush was delicately referring to the president's stuttering, pauses, and choleric facial expressions.)

Maybe Rush has a point. After all, everyone remembers Al Gore's answers in the first 2000 debate much better than they remember his sighing and his haughty demeanor, right? Sure they do.

Face facts, Rush: Whether they admit it or not, people care much more about style than substance. How do you think Bush became President in the first place? He's a good-looking guy, seems down to earth, and always looks relaxed (when he's not debating).

Given Kerry's sometimes orangey complexion, occasionally gangly appearance and lantern jaw, I pretty much assumed from the start of this campaign that Bush would crush him on style at every turn. I was totally wrong. Last night Kerry had a confident smile, and his height made him look domineering instead of goofy. Even his skin tone was good.

So Bush backers don't get to start kvetching now about style. Nobody forced their guy into that flight suit.