Preview: Presidential Debate

Obama Faces Romney for Round Two in Friendlier Town Hall Setting
TVFirstLook

Mitt Romney, President Barack Obama
photo: debates.org

Later tonight (9pm Eastern), President Barack Obama should be sitting pretty, or prettier in his bid to win a second term as president of the United States. Even if he blows this debate, he's still trouncing Mitt Romney in the polls that matter most - the Electoral College count in the 10 or so swing states that will decide this election.

As of Monday, Real Clear Politics' average of polls has Obama at 201 out of a needed 270 Electoral College votes vs. Romney's 191.

Throw in the latest polls in swing states and Obama's lead over Romney increases to 50 Electoral College votes (294 vs. 244), despite Romney whooping Obama in their first debate.

The good news whether you love or loath Obama is that this year's debates are proving to be great TV.
Of course, in their first meeting, Romney defeated Obama, and good. The president looked wounded, bruised and battered just moments into their first debate. By its end, Obama looked deflated.

Last week, vice president Joe Biden, in his debate with Paul Ryan, helped the Obama campaign. Biden was smart and knowledgeable, all of which was only somewhat offset by his maniacal laughter.

Tonight, Romney will have fewer opportunities to relentlessly beat down Obama. This town hall-style debate will have audience members asking questions, meaning Obama will likely get as many softballs as tough questions.

And maybe most important to Obama is that moderator and CNN host Candy Crowley is no fan of the Romney-Ryan ticket. She has been saying she'll be unbiased tonight. But you have to imagine that Obama's hoping she ain't.