Central Oregonians watch, react to wild first presidential debate

'Donald Trump is obnoxious, and Joe Biden is old'

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- After months of anticipation, the political showdown that many in the country have been waiting for finally arrived.

All eyes were on Cleveland, Ohio Tuesday night as President Donald Trump faced off against former Vice President Joe Biden in one of the most turbulent campaign debates in recent memory.

Your typical watch parties for both Democratic and Republican groups have been sidelined due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that hasn't stopped some watch parties in Central Oregon.

Bend's River Pig Saloon announced over Instagram that they would be airing the debate, and they would be welcoming everyone, regardless of their political affiliation.

We asked some viewers there what they thought of the debate.

"It just reaffirmed what I already thought. Donald Trump is obnoxious, and Joe Biden is old." Lynn Crisp said.

Some even said they believe neither presidential candidate is the answer the country needs right now.

"Trump may be doing great things with the country right now, or saying that he is, but I think we need a holistic change that is outside of both parties." Janice Campbell said.

Many would not talk with us on camera, but the overwhelming majority told us that this debate would not change their minds.

The next presidential debate is slated for Oct. 15 from Miami, Florida after the Oct. 7 debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Democrat Kamala Harris.

You can watch the debates on NewsChannel 21, Fox Central Oregon or the KTVZ.COM livestream.