How Donald Trump Missed His Chance

Perhaps you can’t wing your way to the White House.

At the first debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, authenticity proved to be no substitution for preparation. Strong words faded in the face of solid experience. And, in a campaign that has seen norms shattered, there was something comforting about at least one candidate behaving in expected ways — and speaking in coherent, complete sentences.

The meeting came at a crucial moment, with six weeks before Election Day.