Varying opinions on FOX's first GOP debate on Thursday rolled in from different political parties and interest groups.
Despite differences, Moses Mims, a communications director for the Aiken Democratic Party, said Ohio Gov. John Kasich made the most progress in separating himself from the crowded, 17-person roster seeking the Republican presidential nomination.
Kasich, who barely made the Top 10 based on FOX's polling criteria, defended his decision to expand Medicaid through President Barack Obama's Affordable Care Act, earning him respect from Democratic viewers.
"I thought he was very appropriate in taking that position," Mims said.
Mims, who mentioned he still sides with Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton overall, added that Kasich was able to differentiate himself from the Republican pack by taking the stance.
Other standouts
Mims also said former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush put forth a compelling effort on Thursday.
Mim's position was backed by Matthew Thornburg, the assistant professor of political science at USC Aiken.
Thornburg said Bush came off as "polished" while pointing out his accomplishments as governor of the Sunshine State.
Keeping with Bush's jobs theme, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker was also strong with jobs discussions, Thornburg said.
But during a controversial moment, moderator Megyn Kelly asked Walker if he supports abortion in a case where the mother would die without undergoing the procedure.
"I believe that that is an unborn child that's in need of protection out there," Walker responded. "And I've said many times that that unborn child can be protected and there are many alternatives that would protect the life of the mother."
Though his comments garnered instant reactions, both good and bad, Thornburg said Walker walked away unscathed, making he and Bush victors because each walked into the debate with top-three positions in the polls.
"There were no major victories, but as long as they don't screw up in a big way, they'll be fine," he said.
Room for improvement
Though billionaire business mogul Donald Trump stepped on stage as the poll leader, the "You're fired" reality show celebrity did little to help maintain that position, Mims said.
"There's just no way to get behind some of the things he says," Mims said.
Thornburg agreed, adding that Trump's lack of policy-making experience was put on display, along with renowned neurosurgeon Ben Carson.
Finally, both Thornburg and Mims agreed that Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul faired poorly, especially during a heated exchange with New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie about national security.
Paul opposes the collection of citizens' phone records in the event of a terrorist attack. But Christie spoke about the 9/11 attacks on the U.S., stating that he's attended funerals for deceased friends as a result of the attack. The message worked to the disadvantage of Paul, Mims said.
"He gives everything from a Libertarian point of view and the concept of staying out of everyone's business looks like it hurt him," Mims said.
Thornburg said Paul didn't get a good chance to defend his issues, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of some viewers.
It ain't over 'til it's over
Thornburg and KT Ruthven, the president of the Aiken GOP, were quick to point out that Thursday's debate was the first of many.
Poll numbers and answers to questions are a result of the early trends, Ruthven said.
He added that former Texas Gov. Rick Perry faltered during his first presidential campaign in 2011 before eventually dropping out and endorsing eventual Republican winner Mitt Romney.
"But this go around, he's bounced back and looks stronger. So people's opinions can always change," Ruthven said.
Thornburg agreed, adding that as the primary election draws nearer, candidates will be more outspoken on policies and take firmer positions.
He added that it's too early to walk away with an objective stance on a candidate based on one debate, and that one candidate differentiating from 16 opponents will be tough, especially for those who finished middle of the pack.
Those include former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, Thornburg said.
"It's a crowded field, and those candidates need to be able to distinguish themselves from the 'Middle of the Road' conservative stance if they want to make a name for themselves," he said.
Before the top-tier debate, a second-tier debate was broadcast featuring candidates who did not make the Top 10.
Those include former Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania, S.C. Sen. Lindsey Graham, former N.Y Gov. George Pataki and former Texas Gov. Rick Perry. The others are former Virginia Gov. Jim Gilmore, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and business executive Carly Fiorina, who Thornburg believes walked away the victor of the second tier debate.
"I'm curious to see if she gets bumped up in the polls since she did so well," he said.
Derrek Asberry is the SRS beat reporter for the Aiken Standard and has been with the paper since June 2013. He is originally from Vidalia, Ga., and a graduate of Georgia Southern University. Follow him on Twitter @DerrekAsberry.