Hand in pocket: Mitt Romney reached into his trousers as he approached the podium during the debate
Secret stash: Mr Romney's opponents accused him of bringing in pre-written notes
The GOP challenger was universally declared the winner of the debate on Wednesday, despite widespread expectations that he would be overwhelmed by the experience of President Barack Obama.
Ever since, the candidate's opponents have been searching for reasons to explain his strong performance.
Some thought they had found an explanation through close observation of the moment Mr Romney stepped up to the podium for the first time.
He can clearly be seen slipping his right hand into his pocket and withdrawing a folded-up white square of material.
Proof: Mr Romney could be seen using a handkerchief just before the closing statements were delivered
The Daily Kos suggested that the material could contain 'crib notes', while Wonkette seized on as evidence the former governor of Massachusetts was 'a cheating cheater'.
While the rules for the debates this year have not been publicly announced, in the past candidates have been banned from bringing in 'props, notes, charts, diagrams, or other writings'.
However, a Romney aide dismissively denied the theory, saying simply: 'It's a handkerchief.'
Just before the candidates delivered their closing statement, Mr Romney could clearly be seen wiping his face with what was presumably a handkerchief or tissue.
Acclaimed: The GOP challenger was considered the victor of the first presidential debate
Defeated: Fans of the President have been grasping to find excuses for his poor performance
Both participants took extensive notes during the debate itself on paper provided by the organisers.
The crib-sheet theory is not the first implausible explanation for Mr Romney's success floated by disappointed Democrats.
Former Vice President Al Gore suggested that the altitude of Denver could have harmed Mr Obama, as he spent only a few hours in the city ahead of the debate.
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