WASHINGTON COUNTY (KFSM) – Monday (Sept. 26) night, one of the most anticipated debates of recent history took place in New York between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump.
Across Washington County, several local political groups formed watch parties for the debate.
"It will be a television spectacle. One to behold and to watch for a while," said Tyler Clark, spokesman for the Washington County Democrats.
Clark said the race had tightened recently, which made the importance of the debate more significant for Clinton.
"It probably is more of a horse race than we've ever wanted it to be, from the democrat’s side," Clark said.
Both Washington County Republicans, and Democrats, agreed the first debate was pivotal to perform well in. Some even suggested it was Trump’s to lose.
"[Trump] has a chance to show that he has the ability, the persona, and to be a statesman and to have a grasp of our economic issues as a businessman,” said Joel Maxwell, a Washington County Republican. “So, if he makes his case that he can handle those, and do them well, he will win over a lot of voters.”
While Democrats said Clinton should show more of her personality in these debates, Republicans said Trump needed to showcase his ability to lead.
“Hillary Clinton has been accused of being more robotic, so she needs to show some emotion about something she is passionate about," Clark said.
"I think tonight is very important, because I think a lot of folks will form their ultimate opinion based on how they do tonight," Maxwell said. “I think, in general, this is going to be one of the most definitive debates we've had in the past few years. I think a lot of people are looking at this debate to help them make their decision.”