President Obama commenting tonight. (Photo: Getty)

President Barack Obama, whose performance in his first debate against Mitt Romney was widely panned, appears to be very pleased Vice President Joe Biden's rhetorical bout tonight went significantly more smoothly than his own.

On his way back from a campaign stop in Florida, Mr. Obama descended the stairs of Air Force One and addressed the reporters who "hollered" at him, according to a pool report tonight.

"I'm going to make a special point of saying that I thought Joe Biden was terrific tonight," he declared. "I could not be prouder of him. I thought he made a very strong case. I really think that his passion for making sure that the economy grows for the middle class came through. So, I'm very proud of him."

Mr. Obama also made a point of saying he had personally spoken with his running mate after the debate.

“Yes, I just talked to him," he said.

Presumably it was favorable commentary, as, according to the pool report, that remark was made with "a smile."