At a speech after a Los Angeles "30 Days to Victory Concert" in the Nokia Theatre featuring Katy Perry and other performers, President Obama delivered a candid speech, copping to his troublesome performance during his Denver debate with Governor Romney.
"My understanding is it was an incredible show," he exclaimed.
The president commended the musicians for "perform[ing] flawlessly night after night," before admitting "I can't always say the same."
"But here's the good news: we've got a better vision for our country. We have a better plan for the next 4 years, and that's why we're here tonight."
As his voice still echoed throughout the theatre, someone in the energized crowd yelled, "I love you," to which Mr. Obama quipped "Love you back."
According to Gallup polls, Romney's performance granted him a second wind, wiping out the president's pre-debate 5 percent lead among registered voters, during which Obama maintained 50 percent support and Romney 45. The race is now tied, with Obama and Romney stalemating at 47 percent each.
In an effort to recuperate his lead, Obama told the crowd that he needs their support to "finish what we started" in 2008.
"Now, four years ago, I told you we'd end the war in Iraq, and we did. I said I'd end the war in Afghanistan and we are. I said we'd focus on the people who actually attacked us on 9/11 and today Osama bin Laden is no more."
The first presidential debate resulted in "historic" shifts in the public perception of both candidates, but two sparring matches between the candidates remain. It remains to be seen if yet another shift will occur following Obama and Romney's October 16 or October 22 debates, but one thing is certain: this is going to be a close race.
Obama vs. Romney TV Schedule
October 16 Debate
From 9:00 to 10:30 p.m. EDT, President Barack Obama and Governor Romney will discuss Foreign and Domestic policy at Hofstra University, moderated by CNN correspondent Candy Crowley. This debate will take on a Town meeting format and the Gallup organization will fill the audience with undecided voters.
October 22 Debate
From 9:00 to 10:30 p.m. EDT, President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney will discuss Foreign policy at Lynn University, moderated by Face of the Nation host Bob Scieffer. The debate is separated into nine 10 minute segments, just like the October 11 debate. Naturally, the two minute rule remains in effect.
Read More:
>>Vice Presidential Debates 2012 Preview: What to Expect From Biden and Ryan
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