Dan Balz believes Bush is inconsistent, however, his largest weapon is the fact that he is underestimated. Bush being more of a newcomer to the national debate scene more so than Gore, tends to seem nervous and flustered when on stage. According to other political observers Bush is not as knowledgeable as Gore; he is not prone to go into great details, but he does however communicate with people at a much more understandable level than Gore. Although inconsistent, Balz believes that Bush has risen to the occasion at the time of previous debates(Republican Primaries), and believes Bush can prove himself in the upcoming Presidential Debates. He predicts that Bush could prove to be a formidable opponent for the Vice President.Following the first Presidential Debate, Dan Balz and Terry M. Neal of The Washington Post reported the debate in an article on October 4, 2000. In a debate full of clashing, noticeable body language, and critique the morning headline read Gore, Bush Clash Sharply On Issues in First Debate. The article describes in detail the events of the debate, but also leaves you with a good mental image of each candidate. The two journalist give a good description of the emotional state of Bush and his campaign staff prior to the debate, where they portray him almost to be immature, and persistent in taking cheap shots at Al Gore. Referring to Gore, Were ready for Jekyll or Hyde, said Mark McKinnon a member of the Bush team. The quote shows the partys willingness to insult Gore behind the scenes, but Bush isnt prepared enough to do so in the big show. However, the two journalists mention Gore and his days leading up to the debate, but do not give specifics or direct quotes concerning Bush, almost as if they are protecting the Vice President. By portraying Bush in such a manner, the paper makes Gore look more laid back and experienced, possibly winning him votes.In another article by Dan Balz in the October 5th edition...
