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Americans abroad pack Vancouver pub to watch presidential debate

Americans abroad pack Vancouver pub to watch presidential debate

They expected 75.

They got 400.

Organizers of a viewing party at Vancouver's Steamworks Brewpub were elated by the turnout to watch the first U.S. presidential debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton.

All eyes in the pub were on the debate despite a critical Toronto Blue Jays game and a Monday night NFL game airing at the same time.

"It exceeded my expectations, although I secretly felt we were going to have a blowout gong show, and that's what we've gotten," said Maureen Harwood, chair of Democrats Abroad Vancouver.

"Look what could happen. If [Trump] were to become the leader of the free world, it is terrifying."

The organization helps U.S. citizens that live in other countries vote in elections, and say there are about 125,000 Americans in the Lower Mainland.

With state deadlines for registration fast approaching, Democrats Abroad took advantage of the night to remind Americans what they needed to do in order to cast a ballot.

"I think we're very important. It's going to be close ... we're encouraging everyone who's American to go right now, if they haven't done it, and register to vote."

While the crowd was big for the debate, it's unknown whether it changed anybody's vote.

"I think by this time Americans have made up their mind," said Steve LeCouillard.

"I don't think Hillary is going to say anything that's going to convince somebody that's going to vote for Donald Trump to change their mind."

With files from Bal Brach