This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Politics & Government

Is Tonight's VP Debate A Game Changer?

Let us know if tonight's 6 p.m. debate will affect the presidential candidates' poll numbers.

Historically, most vice presidential debates have not influenced the outcome of the presidential election. However, following last week's first presidential debate in which many analysts and the public declared Gov. Mitt Romney the victor, Thursday’s vice presidential debate between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Paul Ryan has strong potential to sway undecided voters.

The most recent Pew Research Poll shows Romney with a 4-point lead ahead of President Barack Obama, the first time Romney has held a lead in the polls.

After the first debate on domestic policy, many resoundingly said that Romney had entered the debate with more vigor while President Obama lacked the passion and fervor that he is typically known for. MSNBC’s Chris Matthews said Romney gave a “masterful performance.” However, Obama still remained the clear winner amongst certain groups, like online gamers. 

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

Political experts have been giving tips to both Joe Biden and Paul Ryan on how to win the debate, and other media have been telling the public what to watch for in the debate.

But how important is the vice presidential debate to you? What do you want to hear from both candidates?

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

Tell us in the comments: What do you think Vice President Joe Biden has to do to swing voters back toward President Obama? What does Congressman Paul Ryan have to do to keep momentum on Romney’s side? 

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

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?