It needs to be stressed, in watching the debate, that the Hillary camp's belief is that when the two candidates are seated side by side discussing the issues she emerges as the clear victor.

In their opening statements, both sides lay out their messages, as clearly as possible. Hillary plays the work horse card: "There is a lot of work ahead. I offer a lifetime of experience and proven results."

Obama sounds a front-runner's note, saying again that he respects his opponent: "It's a great honor to share the stage again with Senator Clinton." But reiterates that he's the true history-changing figure. More coming.