World affairs

US President Barack Obama stormed back in an intense and enthralling televised debate with rival Mitt Romney at Hofstra University last night.

By Declan Whooley

Most observers felt that Obama was too passive in the first debate which Romney took the plaudits for, but this time round things were more heated with interruptions, personal rebukes and accusations of lying coming from both corners.

The president was in more attacking form this time round and both men at times circled each other in a demonstration of alpha-male power. It is of little coincidence that many of the undecided voters are female.

Romney said that while Obama was ‘great as a speaker and describing his vision’, but also added that ‘we just can't afford four more years like the last four years.’

For his part Obama pointed out that Romney’s maths just failed to add up when dissecting his taxes plan, as highlighted below.

A CBS News instant poll of uncommitted voters conducted shortly after the debate finished found that Mr Obama had edged Mr Romney for a victory. Of those polled, 37 percent said Mr Obama had won while 30 per cent said Mr Romney had come out on top. The remaining 33 percent said the clash had ended in a tie.

All eyes will be on Florida next week for the final televised debate.