Obama on debate performance: I was too polite

USATODAY

President Obama's latest explanation for last week's debate: He was too nice.

"I think it's fair to say I was just too polite," Obama told radio host Tom Joyner on Wednesday, again adding that Republican rival Mitt Romney changed his story about his past positions -- and vowing to be more aggressive in the next two debates, Oct. 16 and 22.

"Because, you know, it's hard to sometimes just keep on saying 'and what you're saying isn't true,'" Obama said."It gets repetitive."

He added to Joyner: "But, you know, the good news is, is that's just the first one. Gov. Romney put forward a whole bunch of stuff that either involved him running away from positions that he had taken, or doubling down on things like Medicare vouchers that are going to hurt him long term. ...

"And, you know, I think it's fair to say that we will see a little more activity at the next one."

The Huffington Post , which transcribed Obama's remarks, reported: "In addition to re-figuring his approach to and preparation for the next debate, part of President Barack Obama's task is to reassure a base in despair."