Debate wrap courtesy of Reverse Spin

I had some work-related things to do last night, so I missed Tuesday evening's Republican presidential debate.

I could've DVRed it, but by the time I got to see it, it'd all be be old news.

Here's what Dan Curry said at Reverse Spin. He and I usually agree on stuff like this.

Mitt Romney gave a strong performance tonight in New Hampshire, but the night belonged to Rudy Giuliani and John McCain.

Giuliani had range. He was a master of the facts, such as when he counterpunched on immigration by picking out small details of the bill. He was warm and compassionate with the audience. And he effectively fought through the CNN framing of the questions, a move that many conservatives appreciate because few know how to do it effectively.

McCain was on his game, too, fighting for his life with the base of his party that is outraged with the immigration bill he helped draft. McCain played his service to our country very adroitly this evening and, other than a few rambling moments, and overuse of the phrase, "my friends," came in second.

Romney again was very smooth and knowledgeable but seemed a bit forced at times trying to inject a talking point of looking to the future and being optimistic. It eventually will be an effective theme for him once he incorporates it more naturally. And even though Romney always looks the part of president, Giuliani and McCain both looked more mature and sage.

Of the "minors" (No, I'm not talking about Lindsay Lohan), Curry singled out former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee for his strong answer in defending his faith in regards to a question on evolution.

Maybe if I saw the debate I'd have an answer, but why is evolution a relevant topic here?

There have been three Republican debates. Fred Thompson and Newt Gingrich may join the race. At some point soon, a thinning of the herd should take place.

Technorati tags: politics Rudy giuliani Huckabee McCain McCain Mitt Republican