By contrast, Berk said, "I was disappointed in the show and antics [Gore] put on...and the advantage he took of the stage."
But others said they were impressed by both men's performances.
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Back inside the hall, Gore advisers and several Clinton administration cabinet secretaries swarmed around reporters to share their views of the evening.
Asked if he thought Gore had scored points with his spontaneity, an ebullient Energy Secretary Bill Richardson lauded the vice president.
"He was genuine," Richardson said. "That's the Al Gore I love, and that's what I've always seen. That's what made him connect with the audience, and that's why he won this debate."