The public, comprised mostly of university students and young voters, gathered at Debatefest at the University of Denver to show support for both candidates. Photo by Kurt HansonDENVER — The first presidential debate at the University of Denver was wrapped up Wednesday night, and many younger voters said it is a chance for both candidates to set the bar high.
Jeffrey Rosenbaum, a University of Denver student studying political science, said this was a great debate for both Pres. Obama and Gov. Romney.
'I thought Obama did better, but it helped Romney more,' Rosenbaum said.
Rosenbaum said Obama is well known for his eloquence in speech, and Romney surprised most in his delivery.
Margarette Schack, a senior at George Washington High School, attended the debate with a friend and came in already supporting Obama.
'I'd have to say I'd give the win to Pres. Obama,' Schack said. 'He kept Romney on the defensive the entire time, which is why he was aggressive the entire time.'
As is usual, people across the media spectrum from both sides said either Romney practically scared Obama tonight or Obama took the debate from Romney. Many students around University of Denver campus support Obama and said he will win the remainder of the debates.
Brad Allenick, a student at the University of Denver, took a neutral path and said both candidates took the opportunity to flesh out their beliefs and views, and he isn't sure if there's a clear-cut winner.
'I think it's hard to say; I'm not going to give either party a win on this,' Allenick said.
The next presidential debate will be a town hall meeting format on Oct. 16 in Hempstead, N.Y.