This past Thursday, the debate between Vice President Joe Biden and Republican Congressmen Paul Ryan took place at Centre College in Kentucky. They each had the opportunity to show the viewers their views on the different policies, such as military spending, tax policies, and abortion.

There were many moments that shocked those watching the debate, but there were about five major points that will determine the outcome of the election. Both candidates spoke to their bases, not the middle, as Biden was able to fight back against Ryan in ways that Obama neglected from the previous debate. Biden continuously brought up the private video of Romney referring to the “47 percent” of Americans who he is choosing not to focus on. Ryan then blamed the high unemployment on the current members of the White House.

Throughout the debate, the candidates both attempted to dominate the discussion, yet the moderator still had control in comparison to last week’s debate. The moderator, Martha Raddatz, was able to steer much of the discussion. Both Biden and Ryan stayed on top of their points as they barely let any points go unchallenged.

Biden and Ryan did not hold back in insulting one another. Biden often referred to Ryan as, “my friend, ” but then said “I have never met two guys who are more down on America across the board,” referring to Romney and Ryan. In response to Biden, Ryan often referred to Biden as “Joe.” In reference to the “47 percent,” Biden stated, “I always say what I mean, and so does Romney.

The focus on defense and the foreign policy had more discussion than any other topic. Both men differed strongly. Ryan complained that in regards to Syria, Obama wasted time by allowing the U.N. make a deal with President Bashar Assad. Ryan later suggested, according to NPR, “it would be a mistake to send U.S. troops for humanitarian reasons.”

Lastly, a major component on last night’s debate was not just what was said, but more specifically, how it was said. Biden often seemed to express laughter and anger. He was not afraid to reveal his frustration with Ryan’s comments through his smile and eye rolling. Ryan seemed to always be calm and still, although in response to a few of Biden’s remarks, he sometimes slightly smiled. He even called Biden out for interrupting.

This debate only causes more anticipation and excitement for the second presidential debate. Both vice presidential candidates made important claims, helping the public to soon make their final decision.