Posted at: 10/03/2012 10:44 PM
Updated at: 10/03/2012 10:48 PM
By: Dietrich Nissen

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Local Watch Parties Take In First Presidential Debate

(ABC 6 News) -- Local watch parties eagerly soaked in the debate, including a DFL held party at the Wicked Moose in Rochester. We reached out to the local GOP party but they said they did not organize an official watch party.

Most everyone we spoke with at the Wicked Moose says they knew what each candidate stands for. Wednesday night’s debate was more about reading the candidates' body language, and their ability to quickly defend their ideas while attacking the others.

For an hour a half, President Obama and Governor Romney contended over a number of domestic issues that include job creation, national debt, taxes, and healthcare.

The crowd was quick to cheer and boo for President Obama. Although for the most part, no one was particularly surprised by the candidates answers.   

"It's been exactly as I expected. Obama's very...a lot of people think that he's polished. I don't feel he's polished, I think that Obama- he speaks from the heart," says Mitch Stevenson.

"They get under a stressful situation where they have to rely on themselves instead of, ya know, the talking points that they're used to," says Mickey Alslden. "To have that moment of genuine personality is um...I guess, priceless."

Many debate critics are saying Governor Romney won this debate because he had clearer, more concise answers as well as solidifying his position as a presidential candidate. With two more presidential debates to go, it’s still a close race.

The one and only vice presidential debate happens next week on Thursday starting at 8 p.m. in Danville, Kentucky.

As for the presidential candidates, they'll face off again in two weeks on Tuesday, October 16th.