Debate 1: Robert Gibbs

Norah O'Donnell talking to Robert Gibbs, Obama's Communications Director about McCain's statement accusing Obama of "political posturing" yesterday in White House meeting.

Gibbs: Talked about the events of yesterday. That when McCain suspended his campaign they were close to the principles a deal and five hours later (after CBS interview) when he got to Washington there wasn't a deal. He thinks McCain participation in the legislation process was a dramatic negative. One giant political stunt and photo op, the failure of which is only eclipsed by Washington Mutual Bank being seized by the federal government.

O'Donnell: Axelrod said that McCain has used this crisis to advance his campaign. Be specific - how has he used this crisis to advance his campaign?

Gibbs: "Let me disagree with David. I think it's dramatically set back his campaign. I totally agree with David that what John McCain tried to do was create a political stunt with a photo op and pretend that he was going to sweep into Washington and save the American people from themselves. Again I think it has been a spectacular failure...I think John McCain has done nothing to help this crisis. Last two weeks have seen Barack Obama be steady and cool under pressure during this global economic crisis to fight for principles that he wanted to see as part of this agreement."

O'Donnell: (With an insider smile.) "Are excited about tonight's debate?"

Gibbs: "Of course."

Axelrod sounds panicked. Gibbs dismissive.