"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
The only thing that will save Kerry is an extremely strong showing in the
debates.

Precisely why GWB would be wise to avoid the debates. Bush cannot speak
extemporaneously, and should never attempt it.

The general consensus on Bush is that he has done exceptionally well in his
debates...both with Al Gore in 2000, and Ann Richards in 1994. I think the
debates will actually *help* Bush by magnifying the biggest difference
between the two candidates...which is that Bush is firm, resolute, and can
"stay on message", and Kerry is a wishy-washy, flip-flopper whose message
will meander all over the place. In a Presidential debate, voters will want
concise, black-and-white answers...not shades of grey.