Standing Room Only!

Debate Watch 2008 at the Russell Library

Excitement was in the air last night as over 80 people
packed into every nook and cranny of the Russell Library’s auditorium to watch the second Presidential Debate. Dr. Paul Gurian, Professor of Political Science at UGA and an expert on campaign strategy, kicked off the program at 8:30 pm with a brief introduction to characteristics of the town hall style debate and an overview of the goals that he expected each candidate to set for their respective performances. Gurian also shared some statistics on the impact high-stakes presidential debates have made historically on potential voters. Just before 9:00pm everyone found a seat (in a chair, on the ground, or even in the lobby), grabbed drinks and snacks, and settled in for the night. Following the debate Dr. Gurian fielded general questions and comments from the crowd, many of whom suggested what sound bytes the media might focus on in the coming days.

Thanks to everyone who made this event such a success! We encourage you to tune in for the third Presidential debate, scheduled for next Wednesday, October 15^th at 9:00pm (EST). And to all those in the Athens area, we hope to see you at the Russell’s next community forum, “Making Ends Meet: Is There a Way to Help Working Americans” on Thursday, October 16^th from 7:00-9:00 PM at the Oconee Public Library, 1080 Experiment Station Road, Watkinsville, GA. This event is free and open to the public -- light snacks will be provided – thoughtful discussion expected!