The First Presidential Debate was held on September 26th, 2008, at Oxford, Mississippi. The debate focused on foreign policy, but also included economic and financial questions due to the current economic crisis and proposed financial bailout.

Before September 26th, it was unknown if the event would take place. John McCain wanted to delay the debate if the financial escape plan did not pass. The plan never passed, but McCain took back his word and continued with the original debate plans.

Polls show that Obama won the debate, resulting in Obama gaining an increase in the overall polls, some giving him 49% compared to 40% for McCain.