In New Hampshire, CNN conducted a focus group with 24 undecided Democrat and Independent voters. Before the debate, they thought Clinton would be the best performer. Afterward, they said Barack Obama ranked first, followed by Joe Biden and John Edwards.

CNN did the same experiment in Nevada. Bill Richardson, a known name in that part of the country, did the best, followed by Clinton and Obama (who tied) then Edwards.

Maria Elena Salinas of Univision said Clinton "seemed to stand out because of the directness of her answers." She also said she was disappointed that there was not more talk about the immigration issue.

Rev. Reggie Longcrier of Hickory, N.C., who asked a question early on in the evening, said the debate was "dynamic" and unlike anything he had ever seen before.