There were several debate parties all over the Quad Cities, the largest one taking place at Augustana College. For the students, watching the debate serves 2 purposes. For many this is their first time voting in a presidential election, so they were paying close attention.
"It's really nice to just figure out where each candidate stands on the issues. I know who I'm going to vote for, but it's good to reaffirm," says Augustana College Student Alicia Oken.
"It will be cool to see the points made back and forth between the candidates. I'm looking forward to seeing a nice, civil discourse between the 2 of them," says Augustana College Student Ray Scharpelli.
The debate was also an opportunity to learn. There were 2 discussions, 1 before and 1 after the debate. Students talked about the theme of domestic issues, especially the economy and how to interpret the candidates' responses.
"It was absolutely wonderful," adds Scharpelli, "I loved the passion that Governor Romney displayed and the civil discourse. I just thought it was a great debate on both sides. I really liked that they brought up the economy and health care. Those were issues I really wanted to see discussed."
"I thought it was really vague. I think Americans deserve not only more variety from both candidates, but also more details about what's going to happen," says A.J. Boucek, an Augustana College Student.
The majority of students at the debate watch party are in political science or communication classes. They will continue their debate discussion in class.
