Looking at Gallup’s post debate polling:

***Demonstrated he is tough enough for the job Bush 54/ Kerry 37

***Likable Bush 48/Kerry 41

***Believable Bush 48 / Kerry 45

***Agreed with you more on the issues you care about Bush 49/ Kerry 46

***Had a good understanding of the issues 41/41

***Expressed himself more clearly Bush 32/Kerry 60

On Iraq: Before Debate: 54 said the president would do a better job handling Iraq than Kerry (40)

After: 54/43

More, lifted from Bush-campaign readings: John Kerry failed to improve his ratings on “handling the responsibilities of Commander-in-Chief”. Prior to the start of the debate, 55% of voters said they trusted the President with the responsibilities of commander in chief while 42% trusted Kerry. After the debate, 54% trust Bush and 44% trust Kerry (Gallup).