The debate came after the worst 60 hours of the Trump campaign, but he avoided a meltdown. Republican politicians who hoped he would have one and make it easier for them to abandon him will now have to keep living with the dilemma. Under the abnormal circumstances of this debate, this has to be counted a win.

There are, however, several caveats. First, the press may very well keep the videotape storyline going. Second, the pre-debate press conference with victims of Bill Clinton’s harassment–and alleged sexual assault–may not play in Trump’s favor. Third, there may be more stories like the videotape to come.

Fourth, and most important: Trump was losing before the videotape came out. He may have assuaged some of the doubts of people who are in his camp, or nominally in his camp. But he would have to do more than that to win the election.