I FEEL A LITTLE BETTER NOW. The Washington Post’s poll shows that President Bush continues to lead Mr. Kerry among “likely voters” by 51 percent to 46 percent. The President holds a three-point advantage among all registered voters.

The percentage of likely voters who have a favorable view of Mr. Kerry rose to 47 percent, post debate. However, the President remains more popular. 53 percent of likely voters say they had a favorable impression of him.

The Gallup Organization shows the race even. Zogby shows the President ahead by one point, unchanged from a pre-debate poll. Pew shows the President ahead by five points, just as it did before the debate.

The reality seems to be that people thought Mr. Kerry did better in the debate than they expected. His own supporters are enthused. But, not much changed in the overall shape of the election as a result.

Those who track the electoral votes also say the President still has the lead there.