And Nutter was frustrated that there was no talk about issues important to cities.
"There was no mention of domestic policy," he said. "It was all national, all the time. I don't know how you can talk for two hours and not talk about crime."
Clout's two cents: U.S. Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware had the most direct, intelligent answers.
Gravel's rump caucus
Former U.S. Sen. Mike Gravel, the only Democratic presidential nominee excluded by MSNBC from Tuesday's debate, held his own debate at the World Café.
Gravel's dry wit was a hit with the audience of 100 or so college students and activists.
He paused the debate on a big screen at various points and analyzed each candidate's statements.
"Listen to the drumbeat of war," Gravel said, as the candidates eagerly explained how they would handle a showdown with Iran. Later, he added: "I'm flat-ashamed of what they're doing."
A number of attendees said they found Gravel to be engaging, funny and superb at critiquing the candidate-speak.
"The last time I saw Hillary, I told her I was ashamed of her," Gravel said to loud applause.
Prep grad makes good
Also in town for the presidential debate: Tom Reynolds, St. Joe's Prep grad, class of 1995.
Reynolds is the national press secretary for New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson's campaign.
He caught the politics bug growing up in East Falls because his mom is Eileen Reynolds, former marketing/public-affairs specialist at the Daily News and Inquirer.
"In my house, we didn't watch TV over the table, we read newspapers," he said.
Reynolds took advantage of the quick Philly trip to return to the Prep to speak before advanced-placement government classes.
"It was a real treat to go back there and give a little back," he said.
Flavia: Cradle robber
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