Who won the debate?
In the aftermath of Wednesday's presidential debate between Democratic incumbent Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney, that question invariably is asked.
The tactful answer is: The issues in the presidential debate are too complex and too vital to the American people to be summed up by identifying a winner.
The correct answer is: Romney.
Observers have characterized Obama's performance as "lackluster," "cautious, at time listless" and "on the defensive."
In contrast, Romney's demeanor has been described as "fiery" and "energized." He was identified as "the aggressor without going overboard."
And, although some Democrats reluctantly conceded Romney's performance was impressive, they contend the contest is far from over.
We agree.
The remaining weeks mark the homestretch in the campaign for the presidency.
Americans can expect an onslaught of campaigning and advertising, as well as more debates.
The Denver debate - on domestic issues - was the first of three between the presidential candidates. They will meet next in a town meeting format on Oct. 16 in New York and will engage in a foreign policy debate on Oct. 22 in Florida.
In addition to the presidential debates, the next in the series will feature Vice President Joe Biden and Congressman Paul Ryan, Romney's running mate. It will be Oct. 11 in Kentucky.
The final weeks present opportunities and challenges for both Obama and Romney.
Can the president convince voters he deserves four more years to pursue his prescribed agenda?
Can Romney build on the momentum from Wednesday's debate and make the case his policies and programs are preferable?
Continue to read, listen and examine as Election Day nears.