Dozens watch presidential debate from area party headquarters - WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports

The Republican and Democratic parties in Marathon County, held watch parties for the debate. And quite a few young people joined in, and had plenty to say.

"This is a pivotal election for me," said Allyson Salzar. "Especially because jobs are such a big issue, for our age group, we're struggling."

Allyson Salzer looks forward to the day she can vote. But until then, she's rooting for Mitt Romney, along with other Republicans.

The same story at the Democratic watch party, where high school students joined dozens of others to cheer on the President.

"President Obama has been leading a strong campaign and I think with this debate, it's going to be the final push to help us lead toward a hopeful victory in this election," said Gustaf Anderson.

Despite a clear difference in policies, both parties do agree on one thing. The first debate is important for momentum going forward.

Political experts call Wisconsin a battleground state. And there's still more campaigning to come.

Both candidates still have time to win over voters before November.