First off while I think it started off as candidates making speeches instead of answers, and often on very different topics, it then got good. And then really good. They challenged each other, they talked through policy, and they kept it professional and a discussion of issues. I'm really proud of the debate.
Winners
Biggest winner is by far Castro. Before the debate he was in the 1% with everyone figuring he's toast. He's now a contender.
Next is Warren. She entered as someone of clear presidential caliber and in the debate she showed that is well deserved. Did she dominate every minute? No. That would be impossible with 10 candidates. But she validated her leading position.
Booker is the last big winner. He was in so many discussions and in each came across as worthy of being president. I don't know if he improved his standing (strong second tier), but he definitely maintained his standing.
Losers
Biggest by far is O'Rourke. He seemed clueless and in over his head at times. Definitely not presidential caliber. He's got good enough standing at present that this won't kill his campaign, but if in the next debate the same thing happens, then it's over for him.
Klobuchar under performed. She came across clearly as smart, knowledgeable, and I think would make a good president. And she had some great zingers. But she never soared. This has been her problem all along and it didn't change.
Gabbard basically wasn't there. She only lit up on defense issues. Her campaign is over. Too bad, she's really smart and knows defense well. Maybe she'll become Secretary of Defense.
Delaney clearly didn't belong on the stage with the others.
Inslee, Ryan, de Blasio – None of them had a moment. They all had an occasional contribution, but none did anything to move them out of the 1% category.
