I almost didn't want to blog about this today but it was the last debate before voting begins and some of you may have wondered why a premier political site like AT wasn't covering it.

I'm talking about the Republican Debate last night on Fox. For those who were able to keep awake through it all, I congratulate you.

I, myself was unable to keep my eyes open and missed the last 15 thrilling minutes. But from what I saw, I would make the following observations.

1. Mitt Romney had his best debate in months and may have reversed the McCain momentum a little. It probably won't be enough for him to win but it will keep him close enough that he can go on to Michigan with some confidence. In fact, if he can narrow the gap to 5 points or less, Romney may be able to claim a comeback of sorts.

2. McCain disappeared last night. He was subdued and had little energy. Perhaps he was playing it safe. If so, he made a mistake.

3. Mike Huckabee lacked his usual charm and wit, couldn't answer a direct question about his tax increases while governor of Arkansas, and generally stunk up the place. For his sake, I hope no one in South Carolina was watching.

4. Fred Thompson should employ a comfy red chair rather than his red pickup truck as a campaign symbol. Thompson has excelled in these roundtable debates where everyone is seated and the mood is a little more relaxed. His performance won't help him in New Hampshire but for his sake, I hope everyone in South Carolina was watching. 

5. Rudy Giuliani was better last night than he was in the ABC debate on Saturday. But the focus has gone off of Giuliani and he is going to have to find a way to recapture interest in his campaign. Right now, no one cares about Florida which is where Rudy is pinning most of his hopes. He seems to have moved into the background with the focus on these early primaries.

Summary: Fred won on points. Romney on style and because he needed to hit a home run, should be declared the overall winner.

I'd say McCain was the loser because he failed to rise to the challenge and appeared to be resting on his laurels. It shouldn't hurt him enough that he loses tomorrow but it will probably take away some of his momentum.