Politics & Government

Patch Presidential Debate Party: Live From Goldy's

Patch invited politicos and movers and shakers from around the region to watch the presidential debate at Goldy's in New London.

Opinions varied on the performance of President Barack Obama and Gov. Mitt Romney during a Patch debate viewing party at Goldy's Restaurant on Tuesday, but viewers said they thought it marked an improvement for Obama.

Delanna Muse, a Democratic member of the New London Board of Education, said she thought Obama seemed distracted in the first debate with Romney. She said she thought he “was more himself, was more of the Obama we were used to” on Tuesday.

"I was proud of him," she said.

Find out what's happening in New Londonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Mayor Daryl Finizio of New London, also a Democrat, said he thought both candidates performed well but that Americans will favor Obama in the general election.

“Ultimately, I think most Americans are with the president’s positions, and it will be a close election but the president will win," said Finizio.

Find out what's happening in New Londonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Nancy Anglin, a New London resident, said she thought Obama won the debate.

"He gave the people the answers, I think, and Romney didn't," she said.

Leon Moore, a Montville Republican and candidate for the 139th District seat in the Connecticut General Assembly, said he agreed more with Romney's points. However, he said he was disappointed with the debate format since he thought it lended itself to spin and talking points rather than a substantive discussion of issues.

"More or less I considered it a draw," he said. "They both had valid points for their talking points."

Ray Jones, a Pawcatuck pastor, also said he thought the debate did not allow a discussion on the deeper issues in the debate and that he considered the result a draw.

"I think the bottom line is the Democrats are going to think Obama won, Republicans are going to think Romney won, and the question is what do you think the undecideds will think," he said.

...

Drink specials, including the Mitt Rumney and the Obama Mama, proved equally popular at Patch's debate viewing party at Goldy's restaurant Tuesday night.

If you missed it, check out Patch's live blog of the debate.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here