Opinions of the one and only vice presidential debate in the 2008 election depended on who the viewer supported going into the contest. Most agreed that Senator Joe Biden had a better grasp of the issues, but Governor Sarah Palin was energetic and folksy in her arguments in favor of John McCain. Palin clearly distanced herself from the policies of fellow Republican President George Bush while also attacking Barack Obama's energy and foreign policies. Biden countered by criticizing John McCain's record on the economy, saying he was "out of touch" with Americans. Warm Up Questions 1. Did you watch the vice presidential debate between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden? If so, what did you think? 2. What do you know about Alaska Governor Sarah Palin? What do you know about Delaware Senator Joe Biden? 3. How important are debates? Why? Discussion Questions 1. Who do you think did better? Why? 2. What were some of the most memorable parts of the debate? 3. Do you think the debates will make a difference in the outcome of the election? 4. Who do you think will win November 4? Why? Additional Resources Debate Guide and Worksheet Student Voice: Rating the Debates Transcript of the Debate