Obama retools, Romney builds on momentum post-debate
(CBS News) Following their first debate the previous night in Colorado, President Obama and GOP challenger Mitt Romney were back on the campaign trail Thursday.
A more animated Obama, following his performance at the debate that was reportedly described as lackluster, told a crowd in Wisconsin: "When I got onto the stage, I met this very spirited fellow who claimed to be Mitt Romney. But it couldn't have been Mitt Romney, because the real Mitt Romney has been running around the country for the last year promising $5 trillion in tax cuts that favor the wealthy."
Supporter Darien Wilson, who was at the appearance, was wondering where that spirited Obama the night before.
"I was wanting him to have more enthusiasm in his answers and hit back a little more. I felt like Romney was lying right and left. I was like, 'Come on, call him on that.'"
Meanwhile Romney was capitalizing on his sparkling debate performance and made a surprise appearance Thursday morning before the Colorado Conservative Political Action Conference.
"Last night, I thought was a great opportunity for the American people to see two very different visions for the country," said Romney. "And I think it was helpful to be able to describe those visions. I saw the president's vision as trickle-down government and I don't think that's what America believes in."
In addition Romney, who was later campaigning in Virginia, is also ramping up spending on television after being outspent by the president more than 2-1 in swing states. On Thursday morning released a new ad reinforcing his message in the debate.
Obama campaign readies post-debate counterpunch
Romney basks in debate afterglow at surprise CPAC visit
Moving on from debate, Obama uses humor to jab Romney
Post-debate, Romney and supporters go negative
