JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-- It's the night millions have been waiting for. the first debate.
When Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama squared off for their first primetime debate local reactions were mixed.
"I think Mitt Romney came across as presidential. I thought he was confident, self assured," Jim Sterling said.
"I think Obama is doing very well in talking to us about healthcare. Those things that are very close to the elderly. I think he's all over that," Sabrina Dyer said.
Analysts say Romney came out guns a blazing...well versed and aggressive. As for President Obama-- some argue he didn't have his usual commanding demeanor and came across tired.
"I think he will probably be a little bit more prepared next time," Barbara Bougeois said.
Regulars we spoke with at Metro Diner say the economy, taxes and education are big factors for them this voting season and they were pleased with some of the specifics laid out last night.
Richard Buckle says he doesn't care who's in office, as long as it isn't the current Commander-In-Chief.
"I think Obama is increasingly more chameleon, where we're beginning to see his body language."
Last night's debate was the most tweeted political event ever with 10.3 million tweets in 90 minutes.
As for local voters-- the say they'll continue pressing in on the key issues and standing by their candidate.
"Jobs, the economy. We've got to get Americans back to work," Sterling said.
"I think he's moving in the right direction...we just need to give him an opportunity to exercise and execute," Dyer said.
The next debate is set for October 16th.
