This presidential election has proved to be everything but normal, and Sunday night’s debate was no different. Things seemed to move from awkward to heated, back to awkward, and ending with a bit of a twist. Here is my personal account of what I observed to be the top ten cringe-iest (and also quite comical) moments from the debate.

1) Cold Shoulder

Following introductory statements by moderators, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton made their debuts from Stage Left and Stage Right, respectively, and came to meet in the middle. Since they met in the middle, it seemed only natural that they would either shake hands or at least acknowledge one another’s presence. Instead, and rather awkwardly, they both just sort of looked beyond each other, only acknowledging their audience.

2) Taking a Stance

Not sure whose idea it was to have both a stand/podium-type-deal and an awkwardly high chair set on stage, but it was rather uncomfortable to watch the candidates try to decide when and whether to sit or stand throughout. At many points during the debate, Clinton appeared to be uncomfortably perched on the edge of the chair while Trump, also unsure of what to do with himself, tended to take his stance behind his chair, grasping the shoulders of it.

3) The Wanderer

Maybe I am an over-observer for this one, but it seemed to me that, Clinton kept sauntering over to Trump’s “side of the room.” Now, I know the candidates were not necessarily ordered to stick to any one side, but Clinton seemed to be crossing the stage constantly to Trump’s side. At one point, Clinton did strategically walk over to face the person who had asked a question, but as a result of her wandering, many of her camera shots, show Trump, visibly frowning at her in the background.

4) The Donald

By now, everyone is familiar with, and numerous political caricatures, have publicized the famous grouchy face of Donald Trump. However, in this debate, an extra grump-faced Trump, with narrowed eyes and pouted lips, seemed to throw menacing glares at his opponent, Clinton. As before mentioned, Trump also seemed to assume awkward hovering stances in proximity to Clinton.

5) Mystery Visitor

Like one of my fellow Facebook friends, I initially thought the fly that appeared on the debate stage had landed on my own TV screen. Not so. This mysterious fly somehow made its way not only to the stage but is seen landing on Clinton’s suit at one point. Was this just a fly on the wall or was Hillary just …so fly?

6) Trump Dictionary

If a Trump Dictionary existed, you could bet that the first word in it would be “disaster.” During the debate, Trump used the word disaster 18 times. (Yes, I counted). In his book, as long as you know the word “disaster” and the long list of things that are synonymous to it, you’re right on track.

7) Opposing faces

Watching the contrasting demeanor of the candidates was especially intriguing to me. It honestly reminded me of the comedy-tragedy masks used in Greek theater, one mask which is overly joyous and the other, the exact opposite, to the point of distraught.

Whether out of habit or her own personality, Clinton’s demeanor was poised, seemingly relaxed and she appeared to be having a grand time, smiling widely and chuckling from time to time.

Trump, with the complete opposite vibe, was looking very stern, tense and intense in everything that he said and did—complete polar opposites. Their differences really stood out tonight.

8) Back at it again

Trump was at it again, with the “sniffling.” I don’t think half an hour had gone by after the debate before the memes started rolling in about this nervous habit of Trump’s. This came up after the first debate as well, as many were offset by his constant, audible and heavy inhaling. While it drove some people insane, it made some cringe for him.

9) Solemnity

It was very interesting to watch the demeanor of all the subjects in tonight’s debate but those sitting on the sidelines of the stage with candidates really caught my eye. They just had the grimmest of looks on their faces, and I feel that their solemnity really added to the tension in the room.

As always, this may have had to do with nerves because these participants knew that millions would be tuning in to this live debate. On the other hand, it could have been because they themselves felt the tension that was obvious between the candidates. Perhaps if you were sitting in such close proximity to the shots being fired, your face may have been pretty grim, too.

10) Plot Twist

The ending was not so much awkward as it was a complete plot twist. A totally unexpected but well needed human moment happened at the end, as the final question asked candidates to look beyond their differences and name one thing they respect about each other. Coming from such an intense debate, the last question truly acted as a pivot, allowing the debate to end on a more positive note, certainly contrasting the ruckus that has otherwise characterized this election. Hillary’s answer seemed a bit more indirect, while for the first time, it seems, Trump directly answered a question that he was asked.

I hope this has been a light, interesting (if not fun) and certainly more objective political read for all. If you have not seen this debate, I recommend that you watch it. I believe it is worth watching. Many more issues were addressed here than in the first debate, in my opinion. I feel that I got a clearer understanding and further detail on the stances of the candidates and where they part ways in terms of national issues.

Finally, of course, as a Political Science major, I must urge you not to neglect your duties as an American citizen, however you feel about this election. Get registered and cast your vote for #POTUS2017!