Debates Hurt Bush?

Three or four years ago the street word on Bush was that he is stupid and can't speak English. He said, "If you don't stand for anything, you don't stand for anything!" He said, "Families is where our nation finds hope, where wings take dream." And "I will have a foreign-handed foreign policy." (more Bushisms here)

Then something happened. Mr. Bush slicked up some. Still no English professor, admittedly, but he got a lot better. He has had masterful teachers.

In Thursday's first debate, President Bush can stick to talking points, hammer PR phrases home, and sell his product.

Everyone knows what Bush is by now. Few people know what Kerry is.

Thursday night, Bush's has only to show off his new, improved speaking ability. As long as he doesn't say anything weird enough to make headlines on Friday morning, he'll win.

Unless Kerry gives the performance of his life, there's hardly a way the Thursday debate can hurt Mr. Bush.

Brad Messer commentary— KTSA.