Second Presidential Debate Draws Many Together to Watch

By Jawahar Malhotra

HOUSTON: When so much is going on during this hectic festive Navratri-Dusserah-Diwali season, the national election had added a degree of excitement that borders on a frenzied sport for the many keenly watching political races. And this cycle, none has garnered more interest than the Presidential contest between Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton, with rabid supporters on each side.

Nestled in the support for the candidate of their choosing are the hopes and aspirations of the voting public. And who could ask for more than a spirited discussion of the merits of their candidacy by Trump or Clinton during their second debate held last Sunday, October 9 at Washington University in St. Louis, townhall style.

A group of die-hard activists – Roopa Gir, Ramesh Anand and Jagat Kamdar – once again arranged for a Debate Watch party with a huge projector TV and snacks for comfort, at India House and a roomful of people showed up to share the experience. It was the second such party that the group organized: the first was held at Neeta’s Restaurant for the first presidential debate on Monday, September 26.

There were amused titters at some of the things that the candidates said and gasps of surprise at any gaffes that came out. At the end, this reporter held an informal straw poll of the way those in the room would vote and Clinton was the unanimous winner. That was unsurprising, given the iam4hillary yard sign that was displayed under the screen!

The third and final presidential debate will be held on Wednesday, October 19 at the University of Las Vegas, Nevada and the debate watch party is once again scheduled for at India House, with food catered by Chowpatty Chaat. There is a $5 charge to cover costs and the organizers hope that supporters of both candidates will show up and hold a lively discussion afterwards.