DEBATE

Debate Kicks Off

With anniversary jokes and jobs talk.

The first presidential debate of election season got off to a light-hearted start with a shout-out by Obama to his wife on their 20th wedding anniversary: “A year from now we will not be celebrating it in front of 40 million people.” Romney quipped back when it was his turn, congratulating the couple and saying, “This is the most romantic place you could imagine, here with me!” The two quickly got down to business, outlining the major differences between their economy and jobs plans. Obama stressed the middle class set the tone for the country as a whole, while Romney blamed him for burying the mid-earners. Romney was quick to jump on allegations that he would cut taxes, saying, “I don’t have a five-trillion-dollar tax cut.” Obama shot back, saying Romney’s tax plan will benefit those on the top tier.