Regarding the first McCain-Obama debate, David Broder says there were no knockouts (BDN, Sept. 29). Other news commentators said there were no memorable moments or phrases.

Broder gives McCain higher points than Obama in that he was more aggressive, appeared to be the alpha male and showed studied indifference to his rival. Obama gets lower marks for saying McCain was right about some points and for frequent glances in McCain’s direction, even though the moderator repeatedly asked the candidates to look at each other. Civility and cooperation apparently don’t get good marks in a presidential debate.

It strikes me that the news media are very invested in their own self-interest, longing for some knockouts and memorable phrases or moments which they can hype. I, for one, wish for more boring debates where the candidates seriously discuss the issues, their differences and are polite and honest with each other. Yes, I am naive and too idealistic, but isn’t this a central part of the change both candidates say we need in Washington?

Donald M. Kimmelman

Sorrento