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… Rick Perry.
Yes, I know Rick Perry wasn’t on the stage last night. No, I don’t think that hurt him. In fact, I believe Rick Perry may soon become the front-runner thanks to last night’s debate performance. I’ll get back to Perry shortly, but first let’s look at the debate and the candidates who participated.
Our crew had seats at in the sixth row last night. We were right in the center of the venue and you literally could not get a better spot to watch the debate. We were able to gauge the audience and got a good feel for what kind of support existed within the room.
I’ll tell you this, a lot in the audience (myself included) felt cheated on substance. I expected much more from Chris Wallace and the other moderators, and it all felt flat with loaded questions aimed at creating “good TV.” There was no digging into the details of the debt ceiling mess, no attempt to find out how the candidates would tackle entitlement reform, and really no in depth look into specific policy/agendas that would open up the free-market to help create jobs.
Byron York should have never asked Michele Bachmann about her husband and “submission.” Some in the conservative blogosphere believe that was a fair question, but it was not at all the right environment for such a question. It made Bachmann have to face a certain type of scrutiny that is impossible for any of the other candidates to face.
CANDIDATE OVERVIEW
Mitt Romney: I told the people I was with before the debate began that Mitt Romney probably dreaded the debate far more than anyone else. Romney is already running a general election style campaign, focusing his efforts on Obama and, for the most part, choosing not to address the primary candidates. Being on the debate stage forces Romney to run against the primary candidates and it’s not something he prefers.
That said, Romney came out unscathed and unharmed. The infighting between Bachmann/Pawlenty and Paul/Santorum, etc, didn’t much carry over to Romney and he was able to seem “less aggressive” by the general audience.
I thought it was interesting that instead of defending/explaining Obamneycare, Romney is now going to Tenth Amendment path and explaining why he had the right to do it. I’m not sure that’s going to get him any points. Based on that logic, it’s OK for a state to enact slavery?
Outside of that, Romney stayed “above the fray” and probably kept his current status as front-runner safe.
Newt Gingrich: The former Speaker of the House doesn’t have a chance at getting the nomination. He’s burned far too many bridges with conservatives and he can’t rebuild those bridges whie at the same time mounting a serious campaign.
That said, Gingrich was refreshing to watch in the much of irrelevant talking points, gotcha questions and politician speak. Gingrich took the gloves off, threw punches at the media, stood out with something different to say and gave himself an excuse to hang around a little longer.
Michele Bachmann: This debate was devastating for Bachmann. I don’t know how it looked on TV, but in the live venue she looked like a deer in headlines the entire length of the debate. She appeared to be on defense for the full two hours and never got a chance to turn that vibe around.
I hate to make my thoughts on Bachmann about appearance, but I think it’s important to note that Bachmann looked tense, stressed, and unable to relax. With this being the case, her responses and statements appeared frustrated and pointed.
It wasn’t all her fault, though, since both Pawlenty and the moderators pre-determined their strategy would include constant attacks on her as a candidate. But Bachmann is running for President and she needs the ability to get beyond all of this and rise above. Instead, she got sucked in and never climbed back out.
Ron Paul: As is always the case, about 90% of what Ron Paul had to say was tugging at my vote throughout the debate. The problem is, the other 10% of what Paul says confirms the idea that I should stay away.
Look, I hate these wars we’re in. I too believe we’ve got far too much going on overseas and would rather see more action here on our own borders. But why on earth does Ron Paul believe Iran poses no threat to us? He even goes as far as saying it’s a manufactured crises.
Ron Paul might have strengthened his own support base, but he didn’t find any new voters.
Tim Pawlenty: I’ll be surprised if Pawlenty is still a candidate come September. Pawlenty’s debate performance was desperate, frustrated and hard to watch.
If Pawlenty’s goal was to hurt Bachmann, he succeeded. If his goal was to help himself, he failed.
Let’s face it, we need the “full package” to defeat Barack Obama. That includes an elegant speaker, a good debater and a great communicator. Do you see any of that in Tim Pawlenty?
Herman Cain: In all honesty, I really like Herman Cain. I think he’s a breath of fresh air on a stage crowded with career politicians. His answers are real, down-to-earth and based on common sense. His solutions are fueled by sound logic and his presentation is sincere.
For some reason, though, he just doesn’t strike me with confidence. That’s a problem when we have an EPIC political battle coming with Barack Obama.
I do believe Herman Cain performed well, I just don’t think it stood out in a way that would gain him significant new support.
Rick Santorum and Jon Huntsman… nothing to add. Non-starters.
Based on my overview above, you have to be in one of three camps. You want Romney to win because you think he’s “Presidential,” above the fray and can possibly win a general. You don’t like Romney, but still don’t see someone on the stage who grabs at you. You like a candidate who doesn’t seem to be picking up enough steam to win.
Many primary voters don’t like these three options. Rick Perry is going to pick up a LOT of those votes and he’ll do so quickly.
My two…
-Eric Odom
Related posts:
How do I vote in this? I have examined the web page carefully and do NOT see anyway to do so?
Go to bottom where it says “Submit Comment” (on the left).
I too wanted to vote but didn’t see any way to do, but I did see the word “Reply” under your post, Valtom. I don’t know if this is going to you, but I will give my vote here.
I thought Gingrich did very well (he had me cheering several times and he has never been a favorite of mine. It wasn’t long ago I thought he was completely out of it, but I think he did well. I really like Michele Bachmann. She is a fighter and says what she means and means what she says. If she says she will not vote for something she will tell you why and follow through. She doesn’t crap from people but does it politely and professionally. I am not a real fan of Romney. I like Santorum. I don’t like Ron Paul, and think he says some very outrageous things, for instance he doesn’t see why Iran can’t have nuclear weapons. You have got to be insane to make a comment like that. That is my opinion.
Of those not in…I would really like Chris Christie, Marko Rubio, Paul Ryan.
I really believe that Newt, who I think is a brilliant man but not presidential material, did an excellent job. Ron Paul is really off his rocker with the thought of allowing Iran to have nuclear weapons! Good God almighty! Michelle was very clear in her assertions and presented her ideas and concerns very well. I don’t like Romney because he is a mere shadow of Obama; just another socialist in sheep’s clothing. Santorum is a wonderful man of great principle but I don’t think he will hold out in the long run although I would like to see and hear more of what he has to say. Herman Cain is a great prospect and I would vote for him if he was on the ticket in any category. I did not care for Huntsman or Pawlenty. I am sorry that Perry wasn’t there because I think he could have contributed alot and I believe that he will have lost momentum by not being in the debate. I guess we will just have to wait and see.
Rick Perry, a good choice. Romney – absolutely not. He is an elitest RINO. A socialist. Do not trust him at all. Pawlenty can give it up. Backman didn’t do one thing wrong. Fox news is the BIG loser. What stupid, baby boomer, immature questions. That’s what is wrong with our country, immature baby boomers and a couple years back (1962) children running our country. Brain defective idiots. Personallhy, Palin/Perry, Palin/Rubio or at best Perry/Rubio.
Yes, I agree. Michelle Bachman was knowledgeable, poised, observed the rules, had done her homework, recovered nicely when picked on. She would make a good president, if the men would allow it.
The only other one I would consider at this point would be Santorium.
Sorry…Rubio will never be eligible to run as VP or Pres. He is not a natural born citizen. This is what we have in the White House right now…a Constitutionally INELIGIBLE POTUS! Something needs to be done about that, too…and ASAP!
Ineligible Candidate is the unique crime committed by BHO and the failure of every State Government to carry out their responsibility in that regard is as egregious as the failure of the Central Government. Completion of this task could wipe off all the unconstitutional acts performed by this fraud and his political conspirators.Where’s the beef???
KJR. I totally agree. That whole thing with the phony birth certificate was enough to make one LOL! They do think we are stupid, don’t they?
Perry has been good enough for Tx though far from perfect.He is suave enough to talk the horns off a billy goat but I just don’t think he has the foreign policy knowlege he will need now that Obama has done so much damage to our country and our military.
Perry is also a RINO. He used to be a dem that “changed” parties. All 3 that this writer supports are RINOs. All 3 will continue politics as usual.
I really wish the top tier candidates would learn from Newt. He will never get the vote, but I loved it when he attacked “gotcha” questions and this stupid committee set up to agree on cuts. He told the truth and he didn’t sugar coat it. This election and beating Obama is so very very critical to the US I wish they would stop riding on the Obama stinks coat tail and get out there and tell the truth and don’t sugar coat it! Don’t they see how its working for Chris Christie? C’mon candidates, catch on already. We want a fighter because we are fighting for the US not just for a democrat or a republican. I too think Rick Scott won.
Rick Perry? Are you joking or just refuse to take your responsibilities seriously?
I could write 5 pages of rebuttal to your one page post. But to eliminate boredom I’ll sum it up quickly:
These debates are an insult to my integrity and the MSM / state owned media is playing by the statist rule book: IF YOU CAN KEEP THEM ASKING THE WRONG QUESITONS, YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THE ANSWERS.
I regurgitated listening to the post-forum talking heads on FOX. Look, Americans need to research the voting records of these candidates. I don’t give a hoot about what some pundit says. I will research each candidate’s history and test that against the rule of law (CONSTITUTION).
If anyone violates this Rule Book, they will violate their Oath of Office – pure and simple.
I agree with Eric on the “feeling cheated on the substance etc” wholeheartedly!!! Spiking the debate between Bachmann and Pawlenty was not fair…..pure ratings!! I agreed with Gringrich when he let Wallace have it. With Santorum that he had to fight his way in to talk. I think you ask one question, you get an answer from all of them in 1 -2 mins each, then go on to next question and do that throughout. None of this back and forth and not some never getting to answer a question. I believe those there in person and those watching it were not there for the drama that the people asking the questions wanted to see. We were not all listening to here Obama or other Candidates for the Presidency bashing each other. We were listening to here real answers to our concerns to help us make the right decision about who we want to be our next President!!!
I think the biggest loser was Fox News, especially Chris Wallace. He lowered himself to the level of a Jerry Springer with his pathetic questions that were only trying to create emotional conflict. Forget informing us on how the candidates would address the problems facing our country. It was a real insult on the american people and their intelligence. I am sorry Bret Baier did not keep everyone on target, I think he is more capable than he proved last night.
I agree with Cheryl. Moderators were not that good, caused problems, Santorum was fighting to get to speak. Thought moderators should have asked what they believe, not what so and so said about the other. I was disappointed.
Newt was the biggest winner, Michele Bachmann also did well. Chris Wallace was the biggest loser ! What a RUDE SOB. Ron Paul lost many points. I think a Perry-Bachmann ticket would be interesting. I also think Newt is smarter than all candidates combined, but just cannot get any traction. Fox News clearly promotes Romney which is not the no-spin they advertise.
In the past I had lost faith in Newt gingrich, but last night he was the one individual who truly offered good suggestions and common sense. His ideas are what this country needs.
Michele Bachman really held her own and has a good chance at being the nominee.
Romney everyone said looked presidential. So what! His comments did not inpress me. Let’s not have anymore silver-tongued orators and Ken dolls either. Let’s have the individfual who can offer common sense and get us out of this mess.
I did not like the way Wallace spiked the debate between Bachmann and Pawlenty …..pure ratings!! I agreed with Gringrich when he let Wallace have it. With Santorum that he had to fight his way in to talk. I think you ask one question, a simple question with no commentary …. you get an answer from all of them in 1 -2 mins each, then go on to next question and do that throughout. None of this back and forth and not some candidates never getting to answer that question. I believe those there in person and those watching it were not there for the drama that the people asking the questions wanted to see. We were not all listening to here Obama bashing or other Candidates for the Presidency bashing each other. We were listening to hear real answers to our concerns to help us make the right decision about who we want to be our next President!!
Watch Ron Paul Win The Straw Poll By A Landslide. Suckers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
… and probably lose everything badly in the end. Very nice man and properly concerned for doing the right thing. But has some potentially disastrous flaws. Your loyalty is definitely appreciated and hopefully is not selfish loyalty in the event Ron falls short and you are unable to join with others to defeat Obama and his totally corrupt cadre of cronies on WallStreet and in Chicago, etc.
Ron Paul is just too hard to listen too, both his speech pattern and shrill screaming condescending tone is too much for me… And Tim P just showed he is willing to destroy someone instead to winning on the merits’ of his views, and voting record… The guy to destroy is not Michael Bachman but OBAMA stupid.
That is the exact thinking that has us in the mess we are end. You aren’t voting on how pretty someones hair is or how well they speak. That is EXACTY how Obama got into office.
yeah … watch for “ballot stuffing” on the part of the Paulites…they ran an ad at ISU requesting people to take part in a “FlashMob” vote for RP…
Agreed!
Do you feel that Iran should be able to prohibit the U.S. from having nukes after all we’re the only country in the world to actually use them.
I’ll be writing in Ron Paul in November. If RP doesn’t win the nomination, I really am completely indifferent to who wins the general election between the left puppet and the right one.
you won’t be alone. :)
To me, the only three that came across “presidential” were Herman Cain, Mitt Romney, and Newt. The others were floundering, however, the questions asked put them in poor positions. The first three handled the questions in their on way.
My husband & I both thought Romney, Cain & Newt came out on top. I am a christian, but I am leary of people who are always putting in your face they are a christian, like signs on the cars & bus. cards and using Gods name loosly & often (unless you are carring on a converstatin with them about God & your beliefs . My experience, is they use Gods name & claim of being a Christian, to get money & gain & foot in your door as politicans, tell us what we want to hear to get our vote!. I have been taken advantage of more by these who announce their Christianity, to get my job.. The scriptures tell us ” by their fruits you shall know them.” Christ did not go around explaining himself , He did good works. I feel Mitt has shown he can create jobs, he has admited there were problems with his healthcare, atleast got off the fence & tried something for his people. He doesn’t let the media trap him in to short time answers! He doesn’t claim to have all the answers, for areas he has no real experience,& can do it in an unrealistic time. He knows there are not real quick fixes. He has spent his time going around to get to know the public, & in public offices. This way he get a feel what the people really want, not what the medi says we want, & who would be good to appoint to his cabinet(those who would be better at knowing what to do in these other situations) if he should be elected.. NO MAN KNOWS everything, and when they say they do, they have lost my vote. Even Christ appointed others & delegated out responsibilities to them while he was on earth to ,to go to places he was not able to be at ,at the time, to teach the people. When he left us & apointed Peter as the head, the apostles were sent to various cities to teach ,& find out what was going on with the church there. Then they would all meet back from time to time & give their reports as to what was needed in these areas,how they could help. These people running are imperfect & do not have all the answers. We need to look at what our country needs the most at this time, & who is humble enough to no they do not have all the answers & can rid themselves of pride & ask help of those who, are more experienced in areas they are not, A good delegator, someone who has worked in the private sector, is not afraid to roll up there sleeves & get hands dirty,loves our country, is Moral, loves God,& respects the right of others to worship how , where, & what they may, according to the dictates of their conscience . . . I see all these qualities In Mitt. As for as Perry , I am also a Texan, & he did not stand up for Texans on several issues, when he could have, in this last session, & when he saw his rattings were ciriously dropping, He calls on a Fast & pray! I feel it was a political ploy! I did participate, because no matter the motives, it was for a good thing for our state & country & ” where their are 2 or more gathered in my name, there am I.” God can take something & make good from it. Most the people that perticipated in this, did it for the right reason. He also went to AFA to put this on for him. Read there beliefs! They not only criticize others religion,(which they are suppose to be a Christian based organization,) they say that the 1st amendment, does not include muslims, even good American Citizens Muslims. This is unconstituional!!!! Perry’s big success here in Texas has had to do to the great citizens of Texas, the grass roots & tea party, Men like Louie Gohmert, & Leo Berman holding his feet to the fire!!!! Now you do your homework & make up your own mind as to Perry’s real reason for the fast & prayer day!!!! And AFA’s real intentions. Are they a real Christian based organization to promote Christian values or are they out for their on gain, & divide Christians in their fight for our country. Who ever America chooses out of the ones last night will still be better for America, even if I don’t agree with all they stand for. I feel they Believe in what they stand for, & God has told us ” It would be better for us to be hot or cold, than luke warm, for he will spue us out of his mouth, if we are luke warm , & sit on the fence. He knows sometimes, we have to just get up & move, & we will begin to see our ignorance & can quickly,stop, turn around, before to much damage is done. (thats why we have repentance) Mistakes are not mistakes if you learn from them & change your ways). I believe that is What Mitt did with the Health care!!! No one had a plan or was doing anything, He made a plan & tried it & has admitted it had flaws & was willing to make changes. We need to search our hearts as to why we are voting for someone,& ask God if it be the right choice! Because whether it be good for America or not, God will give America what they deserve, either from bad choices or doing nothing. My prayer is that We will, put aside our small differences ,& not be special interest voters!
From the top, let’s forget Washington slicker Newt, whiner Santorum, idiot Pawlenty, and Huntsman who?
Ron Paul tore Santorum up with actual historical facts. I checked. :-)He’s rather abrasive, but he’s strong, forward, and has some of the best ideas I’ve ever heard.
Michele Bachmann seemed what? “tense, stressed, and unable to relax”? I saw her as reserved, poised, but strong–perception issue? I thought she held her own well against the doggish attacks of Paw-Paw.
Romney is…well, just plain ole Romney, but I like him well enough. Haven’t seen too much of his family with him on the news this go-around.
And Gov. Rick Perry–I will hold my “reserve” on him, but something just isn’t quite right with him either.
I’m glad to see some one else has some reserve about Perry! See my reply to James Lewis’s , 8/12 comment about Perry. Like to hear your opinio. Tx. Grandma
I agree with Ron Paul, Iran is NO THREAT, as a country that is “One Nation Under God” has nothing to worry about (unless that’s not true). God promised to protect his nation, as long as his people “keep his commandments”, so Iran is only a threat if we abandon God, and disregard his rules (which we have), by TRUSTING IN THE BOMB ourselves! What are we doing with these weapons of we are “One Nation Under God”?
They have every right to have nuclear power (and weapons), because WE HAVE TRUSTED IN THOSE IDOLS ourselves, and have sought to keep them from gaining them so WE can keep them in bondage of fear of nuclear destruction (unless they bow to us). This is an UNGODLY nation that trusts in the MILITARY and MILITARY FORCE to protect it, and THAT’s why you seek to keep Iran from destroying YOUR IDOL. Yet you have the nerve to say that Ron Paul will not get your vote because he wants to remove this nation from MEDDLING IN THEIR AFFAIRS. He is the only sain candidate that would move this nation to a track away from PROVOKING other nations to build defense mechanisms and ATTACK US, like they did on 911. As truly spoken of in the Holy Word regarding his people, “You have PLUNDERED OTHER NATION”, and you will surely suffer for your sins.
Your next ‘king’ will not save you from the fate that the LORD has prepared for you. Think Iran or Afghanistan is a threat? You are already the slaves of the Chinese and you don’t even know it.
Proverbs 22:3 – A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.
Iran is ruled by 12ers that relish the thought of a world in ruins. They want the bomb to use the bomb and they would welcome any counterstrike. Do not confuse Iran with countries like China, Russia, or even North Korea. Most tyrants like the power of the bomb but would hold back to save their own skin. The rulers of Iran do not think that way.
We must ask ourself “who Obama is fearful to debate”. Someone who can teach Obama a thing or two about economy, American history, America’s greatness, capitalism/ free market society, self alliance (not government) and personal responsibility.
That person is Newt Gingrich. Obama will look like a deer in headlights on stage for the whole world to see. Obama has been faking like a scholar which he is not, long enough. Stop Obama’s Kabuki theater.
I like Romney and Bachmann, but they are too nicey nice, kind and too polite to go head to head against Obama.
I agree with you. I like Newt Gingrich. There will be much mud slinging – all in the past – and I think he can handle it. I do not like Romney. I have not heard much about or from Perry so will have to wait judgement on him. I don’t think Obama can win in any debate with Gingrich. That is a big plus. How about Alan West or Rubio as a VP????
Newt Gingrich is the country’s foremost constitutional scholar and a man of solid reasoning capabilities. Wish the people understood that he has great ideas, good problem solving skills and a fresh, bold outlook. I would vote for Newt, hands down, he’s the one to run for the GOP.
I wouldn’t make quick judgement of Romney’s meek & mildness. Christ was meek, Mild & slow to answer the question by the pharasees & his accuser such. We are warned to be careful as to what we let out of our mouths, that it does not come back & bite us on our butts( which I have been guilty of & learned the hard, way even when I was right, it’s knowing when to speak & when not to). I;ve watched Romney’s confrontations with Hecklers, &media On U tube, in its entirety, not the short clips the media chooses to show & give false impressions & I felt he held his on & did not let them provoke him into actions & words that would come back to bit him. One of my problems with Bauchman is,she claims to have a cure for every problem, quick to speak , & lets her left hand know what her right hand is doing. Romney has challenged Obama to call him & he’d discuss with him the failures of his health care ect. I believe he will hold his on, in a gentlemens way!
YOU count Bachman out to early. You did exactly what Pawlenty sought to do, DEGRAD & COUNT HER OUT!
Careful on your political analysis. Your seeking to create momentum & excitement……BAD BAD.
Michelle, Newt, Ron and Rick would never get my support even if I agreed with their policies.
it’s the same reasoning (which has been confirmed) I wouldn’t support Obama if I were a Dem.
No one wants to vote for someone without executive experience. Obama has made a mess not just because of his policies and politics but because he doesn’t know what he’s doing domestically or internationally.
I doubt Michelle would either. It’s not just your policies but picking the right team. And handling that.
Given that…Romney, Huntsman don’t have the right policies even if they have the experience.
Pawlenty is not doing himself any favors by attacking anyone. He needs to show us why we should vote for him by giving us differences.
He may not be able to.
Since it’s not just about defeating Obama, it’s about getting the right person in then we need to look…
Perry’s next…let’s hear what he has to say.
and so what are your policies that Romney & Huntsmen don’t have?
Newt’s statements surprised me– in a good way. His statements were passionate, well thought out, and clearly aimed to let us know what he thought. I thought he won the debate.
While I agree with Ron Paul on many issues, he lost my support when addressing the threat from Iran. Iran’s leaders are not rational, they are religious bigots with plans that may lead to world war. His views seemed naive at best….
Michele Bachmann seemed off for the night. She seemed tense, unhappy, or maybe ill? I wondered if she was feeling sick. It was a bad night for her. Time will see if she can recover from this.
As for Perry…I’m from Texas, so I know Perry. He isn’t perfect–I’m sure his opponents are already digging up what dirt they can find– but he has a good track record for creating and keeping jobs in Texas.
My biggest disappointment last night was that the debate didn’t really deal with the real issues that face Americans… Jobs..government encroachment on private life, and an ailing business climate.
Why did Foxnews wait till the end to get to the real meat of the issue? — jobs. This was a Washington insider moderated this debate. Just look at the questions. Who cares about the political gotcha questions…honestly… let’s get serious. The US is spiraling into debt while special interests are playing the blame game. What nonsense.
Stop the blame game. Shut up already, okay? Blaming solves nothing.
Just tell me what you really think, give me common sense solutions, and you’ll get my vote.
I felt, Cane & Romney both gave a good ideas, as to how to get our economy going & creating jobs. What do you want to hear?
This will boil down to Romney and Perry. Giuliani and Palin won’t get in and they will endorse Perry.
We won’t see any dream tix like Ryan/Rubio, Christie/Etc…
The following increased in my mind last night: Gingrich, Santorum, Bachmann.
The following decreased: Paul, Pawlenty.
Unchanged: Romney, Cain, Huntsman.
I’d love to see HermanCain get traction. Really like this man and he’s the one I’ve been pulling for. Appears that we’ll have to let this fascinating candidate go. I’d like to see him in the equation when it comes to appointments, etc.
Dangerous candidates:
Paul – well intentioned, principled, etc, but simply way too naive about consequences of evil (Iran, International Thugs, Chavez, others).
Romney – A conservative is crazy to risk a vote for this guy. He’s not to be trusted. No principles except for cameras and political soundbytes. His presidential looks and business acumen are like songs of the siren. Stay away!
Promising Candidate:
Bachman keep coming across as very strong and committed. We need someone with guts and she qualifies. She’s competing effectively for my primary vote.
Conclusion:
If one tries to divine where votes go for candidates that drop out of race, then it appears that Perry finishes around 50% and Romney gets around 40%. Will be interesting to see where undecideds go, but for now, looks like Perry gets it. Most people observe him and think there’s no way he can win, including me, but he wins anyway. Watch.
Don’t count Sarah Palin out.
If your interested , read my reply about Romney & Perry, on James Lewis’s blog, 8/12.
I think Ron Paul has a lot of savvy but his views on Iran are downright frightening and fantasy. Gingrich is one of my favorite historians but appeared defensive and did nail a couple of good points.
Preliminary, many did not get a real chance because of the scripting by FOX to give a decent account of their views and Perry was not there to add a new marble to the pile. Still early and I hope when they meet again that real debate can take place and not this PC style of presentation for the sake of media exposure….
Newt came up with some good zingers but it will get him nowhere. I did not really see a problem with Bachmann but it did seem like she was targeted for a downgrade. The question about being “submissive” reminded me of the Fox News Sunday question about being a “flake”. I thought her answer to the gotcha question was quite good and avoided damage. Romney danced around the individual mandate and seemed to get a free pass from everyone. Ron Paul lost people with terms like “militarism” and “business cycle” and really needs to sharpen his rhetoric for a wider audience. I was left wondering if Ron Paul would act to defend Americans in danger. In the end my opinion remains unchanged and I find Bachmann to be the best choice in the field because she will stand on principle and not compromise for the sake of compromise. I don’t know too much about Perry but I do know that he caved when the TSA threatened to shutdown airports in TX. I do agree that Fox News was more interested in stirring up conflicts than informing the public.
I, too, like Newt’s comments about the rinky-dink gotcha questions–especially the ones from Chris Wallace, AND I loved his statement about the stupid super congress and how it’s a real cop out for all the rest of the Sens. and Reps. He was correct, also, for attacking Bret’s question as a gotcha. I also think York’s question to Bachmann about her husband was WAY over the top and really dumb–I thought York was smarter than that–I was wrong. FOX, as a whole, did okay I thought–they handled what ensued well. As to who won……..no winner in my book and haven’t the slightest idea who will win the straw poll. HOWEVER, I WOULD VOTE FOR ANY ONE OF THE REPUBLICANS VERSUS RE-ELECT OBAMA!
Is there a cabinet post for Secretary of National Conscience? Newt would be excellent and would not require a staff that would be fired later or quit. He could do just like all of us blog posters using a computer along with some Vid-Casting. DickMorris could give him some great pointers. Keep us on track, Newt, and away from irrelevant minutiae during this existential threat we’re facing.
The winner will be the one that insists on following the law as regards illegals. The rest will fall into place.
And the winner is…. not us and .. I am concerned that our country remains in a heap of trouble.
I appreciate FOX News for broadcasting this event to us. It is most unfortunate none of the reporters FOX assigned to this event displayed as much as average journalistic talent. In my opinion Chris Wallace, in spite of being the best reporter of the three, was disgusting.
As for Michelle,
To and about the candidates:
TV certainly displayed that she was the main target of the panel and Pawlenty. Tim is obviously desperate. I suggest that he declare an end to his campaign for important family reasons such as taking his children in for their normal dental check up.
Newt … I like you a lot. Too bad that you often step on important body parts.
Michelle and Herman .. I think that I like you a lot also. Unfortunately, neither of you project project your ideas in a presidential manner. Have you attended presidential talking school?
Mitt — Your message is presidential, it is your socialist background that disturbs me. In my opinion you are left of Bush and Bush was way too much of a big spender for me.
Ron, Jon, & Rick … I respect your right of candidacy. Your message doesn’t excite me and I desperately want to become excited. If you can’t excite me, how do you expect to excite a majority of the electorate?
I think Ron Paul was the only candidate with a solid plan for our immediate economic troubles. Paul made a great showing in the debate and his ideas are long overdue. His foreign policy is not naive, as some have said, but instead he is right on target for these economically pressing times. It is high time the the US took note of the needs of our own citizens and protect our own borders. This is not a time to pursue enemies in the Mideast, but a time to harden our borders and strenghten the fabric of our nation. Without a doubt, Ron Paul is the only real choice for a healthy America in the future. I think Romney is coasting on his good looks and has serious drawbacks as a candidate who can change the atmosphere in DC and solve our spending problem. Gingrich speaks well and has good ideas, but I question his ability to change things in DC as well, plus it seems to me that if he can’t sustain his own campaign properly that he is not the leader he claims to be. Bachman has no plan and no credentials. Cain is a great citizen and entrepeneur but not a presendential material. I think it is clear the the “powers that be” are preparing to make Rick Perry the frontrunner and potentially the next President, but that would be a terrible mistake to give in to the money people simply because they are well established at pulling the wool over everyone’s eyes……WAKE UP AMERICA!!
Wake up? If anyone thinks Romney or anyone else for that matter can change the partisan attitude in congress you are just plain wrong
Right now what we need is someone who will stand firm for what is right for America. Most of what will help cannot be compromised on and we must have someone who understands sometimes compromising isn’t possible no matter how much the Dems bash you for it.
What debate were you watching? NO F’ing RINOS!
Based on recent statements and actions that leaves Newt & Romney out, The clear winner was Bachman, but I guess you have a bias…
What debate were you watching? NO F’ing RINOS!
Based on recent statements and actions that leaves Newt & Romney out, The clear winner was Bachman, but I guess you have a bias…
I guess we are learning who we can trust.
Mr. Odom , I really do not agree with many of the things you write as I think you are a little over the top, but I do consider myself part of the tea party movement, but the only candidate that will pull democrats and independents enough to win the election against obama is romney. No matter if you like Romney or not, it is best to elect him.. Non of the others will beat obama and I can not stand to see obama do more harm to America, our great land, than obama has already done to us.
I’m sorry Joe but with your it’s best to elect Romney you sir, are no true
Tea Party member
Obama was endorsed by the Communist Party of America since he was their best chance for “fundamental transformation”. It does not make sense to be more like Obama in order to win. We need a sharp contrast based on principles otherwise a win will mean nothing.
In my opinion Newt Gingrich is the most knowledgeable person . He knows the problems and he has solutions AND he could stand up to Obama in a debate. I’m not sure he can win the nomination but I can hope. I really like Herman Cane and they can’t play the race card on him.
Santorum, Paul, and Huntsman should drop out.
I am not happy about Romney. I feel that if he gets the nomination we may well end up with Obama again. I am very freightened. PRAY HARD AND OFTEN!!!
I agree – Newt is the absolute best candidate – we should stop looking at all the old “baggage” claims and look at his clear knowledge, intelligence, and presence. He’s the best candidate in many years for President. Too bad we just keep “assasinating” his character. ‘Twould have been much better to have him in the White House – why do we “kill” our own?!
It’s early, so things may look a little better closer in–I do know, though, that I’m voting for whomever gets the Republican nomination. I cannot take 4 more years of Obama, nor can the nation.
Newt was the winner, in my opinion.
He shows that he has the ‘fire in the belly’, has great ideas, won’t take crap from the media, and as the former Speaker, he has the political knowledge to make the most of the office of the President.
Newt is who we need as the next President of the USA to get our country back to first principles and fiscal soundness.
Do not confuse rhetoric with action. Look back at his record of actions and you may not trust him so much. There is a difference between making the best argument and making the best president.
To me Newt was # 2 last night. It is a shame that so much knowldege be lost.
The more I hear Newt speak the more I believe he is basically a man being shortchanged. If more people would listen to his ideas and plans rather than bash his past issues we could actually have an intelligent President who knows what America needs both fiscally and in international issues of any magnitude,
Stephanie, I agree only Newt gave great ideas and plans, but I just don’t trust him.
Right on!
Perry is going to leap out in front after that worthless confrontation. Newt was “in tune” but he won’t make it this go-around. Maybe he’ll get an appointment.
The Mitt Romneys in this nation are why we are where we are.
Newt the doddering old fool needs to just go home and shut up.
I want to take a look at Perry. But to say Bachmann was a loser is just wrong and shows how the good ole boy network in the Republican party will not allow a woman to run the country. She is smart articulate and would kick some ass in D.C. Cut it out and don’t help the Republican party shove Mitt down our throats.
DISAGREE!
Rick Santorum is a strong, staunch, true conservative with conviction. Just what we need right now, the complete antitheses to Obama, he is the answer if we want real “change”
Bachman also won because she held her ground great through attacks and is a true fighter, we need her!
Perry lost my support when he pushed through the law that forced parents to get their kids immunized with the HPV vaccine. And, Romney is just a mild version of Obama. No need to explain, his actions speak loud enough.
Santorum and Bachman … A winning ticket to bringing back America!!
SANTORUM/BACHMANN TICKETwill fix our problems. Santorum did not whine. He only ask for some speaking time. Chris Wallace chose to waste our time. Wallace has clearly been in the beltway far too long and needs to go. Santorum has experience in foreign policy, economical issues, and has had ideas on fixing healthcare and social security for decades. He does not flipflop even when it would be politically favorable. He needs more media coverage. There are no flipflops or disgraces to cover with Santorum so you seldom see him. Check out his history. He is an HONEST, HARD WORKING, CONSISTANT CONSERVATIVE!!!
I felt Michelle Bachmann hit all the right notes and won last night. Don’t think Pawlenty was as bad as others have said. But his attack on Bachmann was harsh and it backfired. Mitt looks like he was sent over by central casting. Platitudinous is the kindest way to describe him.
I wish Bachmann had executive experience. Am not sure she’s electable but it’s too early to tell.
Too bad Paul Ryan isn’t running.
Jon Huntsman and Mitt Romney are both Mormons. Think of it this way: do you really want ANOTHER president who thinks he’s god? LDS teaches their members they can become gods. I don’t care how far ahead Romney is. He is unacceptable. He also saddled Massachusetts with Obamacare, oops, Romneycare. Likewise, the governor of New Mexico is unacceptable. He thinks we women don’t deserve to be protected from abortionists. He is anti-life and anti-woman. Abortion hurts women. I am livid with rage that anybody dared ask Bachmann about submitting to her husband. As president, she won’t be allowed, and she knows it. She will have to make her own decisions. Sure, she can ask her husband’s opinion, and I hope a man would ask his wife. But come on! We don’t live in an age where a woman has to apologize for a leadership role. Paul is a total idiot. I like Cain, too, and frankly, I think he won the debate, and the figures at the time seem to agree (don’t bother with Romney’s figures, or Paul’s; his deck is always stacked with groupies.) I don’t know what people are thinking that they would choose Romney anyway. As for Perry, he runs around with cultists, thinks he’s a medical doctor, mandates toxic vaccines for schoolgirls, and is also totally unacceptable. Here’s hoping he and Romney wipe each other out. Gingrich has a lot of good ideas, but he also has some screwy ones. He’s out. I’ll eagerly support Cain or Bachmann.
Do not princes & princess’s become Kings & Queens? Are we not the sons & daughters of the most high God & created in his image? Go read (with a prayerful heart to have the Holy Spirit to give you understanding of these scriptures) Genesis 1:26-27; 3:22; (king James version) In Geneis 4 where it refers to the children of men, that is after Cain killed Able & God cursed Cain & his children & other of Adam & Eve’s children that followed after Cains teachings & ways, & other men that have come & perverted the teachings, taught to Adam & Eve in the Garden & after they were sent out, are no longer children of God. Whether you, believe the way the Mormons do, they still believe in God & Jesus Christ as the son of God, & this does not disqualify them to run for Pres. or not have the knowledge & ability to lead our country. Your remarks make me have doubt that you are a true Christian & constitutionalist. God be with you!
When you can’t defeat the message, attack the messenger. I know Mormonism well. They are polytheists who are taught to deceive outsiders. Theirs is a false Jesus. They believe that God the Father had sexual relations and produced Jesus. They believe Lucifer (satan) is Jesus’ brother. They have extreme requirements for behavior and ignore the fact that salvation is by grace, not works. One of the things that Christians must learn to do is discern.
Romney is a RINO. So I can oppose him on constitutional grounds alone. He promotes homosexuality; he would not permit the Boy Scouts to have their usual duties at the Olympics because they won’t allow homosexual scoutmasters. He voluntarily mandated that government officials should issue marriage licenses to homosexuals. His past is pro-abortion, and I am not convinced he has changed. Worst of all, he got Romneycare enacted. This law, like Obamacare, is socialism.
I often agree with Eric, but he is way off base on Bachmann. She was set up by the panel for an unnecessary argument, but focused back on the issues and facts. Bachmann was Presidential. Pawlenty appeared whiny and annoying. Paul sounded like a kook on foreign policy. Newt dropped the hammer on the media. We need more of that.
Romney supported socialized medicine. Pawlenty was weak on Sharia compliant finance. Those should be litmus test issues, and disqualify them. Huntsman isn’t his dad, which is too bad for him. Cain isn’t knowledgeable enough on foreign policy.
Cain may not be knowledgeable enough now on forgien policy, but he showed he was willing & a quick learner. He also showed he would have the since to appoint someone to that office to consult him on the issues he needed more understanding of. That shows a great leader. Not on who portays himself as a know it all, & doesn’t need anyone else to tell him what is going on & what to do. That is a self centered person that portrays himself as GOD. Him seems to me that’s like the one we have running our country now. Reagan did not contend to know about everything & was good at consulting with those who had more experience than he did, even with the good people in other Countries. In the New Testament, after Peter was appointed head of the church after Christ death, he consulted with his apostles, as to the needs of the church in other cities & as a whole. Which Cain & Romney, have not come off as they think they know the answers to all of our problems, but they know how to choose good consultants, for the jobs & not to prideful to get their advice. That’s the kind of Pres. I want.
Ron Paul is one of the only candidates that really speaks deeply about the issues. I do accept others comments that his delivery is not perfect. However, it is clear that some people commenting here do not understand his stance on national ‘defense’.
All of his positions consistently relate back to the Constitution and Liberty. If one investigates this stance further you will find that he would be one of THE BEST candidates for our national ‘defense’.
Over the past 60+ years we have gone to ‘wars’ without declarations of war from congress. The last declaration of war was passed in 1942 meaning that everything after was done without the full approval of congress. Paul has a libertarian view of war. Do what you want as long as you don’t harm me or others in the process. Otherwise it is none of my business.
In real world terms it boils down to this. If you are going to go to war, you go to war with everything in the pot. You define an enemy (currently in the war on terror we have yet to get a specific definition of our enemy – Sun Tzu would scold us for being so ignorant). You define the terms that ‘win’ the war. You have that war declared in congress and you go, fight, kick ass, take names, win, win, win, and COME HOME. This falls in line with Paul’s position on ‘defense’. Truly a ‘defense’ of our country. Every action has a reaction. Stirring up a bees nest will have an effect of ‘blowback’. Strategists have known this for years. The media and the politicians on the other hand seem to forget easily.
Paul is the only candidate who I believe will truly defend the Constitution and return us to sound money. Newt’s speaking on ending the FED come almost word for word from speeches Paul has given since the 70′s.
My best advice is to turn off the TV and pick up some reading material before truly making a decision on who to support. If a candidate says or does something ask why. If it sounds like new information ask what it is. Look it up. Don’t let a talking head tell you what it is or isn’t. The majority of the media don’t understand what a ‘business cycle’ is or take the time to talk about it. They don’t spend time trying to educate an audience. Just entertain and lead you as far as possible towards the decisions they would like you to make. If you dig just a little you will start to understand what I mean.
Regardless, my best to everyone here and may we all come together to work our way out of this mess.
Best regards,
Jay
I’m sorry, but no, Ron Paul is TOTALLY CLUELESS about national defense. He is complaining because Congress didn’t word their permission for war in exactly the way he thought it should have been worded. There is NO prescribed wording for a declaration of war. Ron Paul never suggested we should go over there and kick ass. He wants to bring all the troops home. The mere fact that this means the terrorists would then attack all of us on our own soil totally escapes him. And they would. We’re keeping them pinned down on THEIR turf. Yes, we should go in to win, soundly, and we have had “leaders” who have prevented this. We won decisively in Iraq, but hadn’t planned the peace. Had Gen. Petraus been in charge of the whole country, things would have stabilized much sooner.
I also have serious doubts about Paul’s understanding of the economy.
the propaganda works very well on you.
WAKE UP BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.
Couldn’t disagree with you more. I advise you to educate yourself concerning Ron Paul so you can appreciate his actual views and his timeliness to lead this country back to health before it’s too late. Not one of the other candidates are nearly as qualified for the job at hand than Ron Paul. America needs to dust off the US Constitution that this present administration has been trampling into the dust and start concentrating on strengthening this nation and stop wasting lives and resources outside our own borders. This election may be our last chance to turn things around before America is no more.
What makes you think I am not educated about Paul? I know his ilk and his stands very well. He passes the buck on abortion. He asked for pork for his district, and then voted against the appropriations bill, knowing it would pass and he’d get his pork. He is a hypocrite. He also thinks marijuana should be legalized. If it were, I would have to breathe it every time I went out in public. Marijuana is nasty stuff; I have studied it deeply. It gives me a splitting headache to breathe the tiniest amount. Paul would remove all controls on socially destructive behavior. He has NO understanding of terrorism or how to fight terrorists. As some people have said, he is an idiot if he doesn’t understand why we can’t let Iran have nuclear weapons. So what if they don’t have an air force? They can put a nuke aboard a ship, park it in Boston Harbor and ignite the bomb. It will work just as well. I could go on, but you know what the bottom line is? His GROUPIES scare the heck out of me, and he refuses to control them. They stack the deck every chance they get. They did it in Iowa, just like I knew they would. They recruited. That’s how the National Organization for Women got its pro-abortion stance, by the way. They brought in outsiders to vote on the question. It’s a stinking, dirty tactic, and his people do it repeatedly, and he doesn’t do a thing about it. If Obama did that, you’d be all over him. Why does Paul get a pass?
Big government progressives have changed what is considered “normal” over the last 100 years and it will take time for a return to our founding principles. Ron Paul seems idealistic in his rhetoric and comes across as radical to the average voter. It will take someone pragmatic like Rand Paul to advocate a step by step path back to those founding principles. Strict compliance with the constitution would mean elimination of all the social engineering programs like Social Security and Medicare and an end to all foreign aid and nation building efforts around the world. Fear mongers would have a field day with any plan to do just that and people are not educated enough on our own history to understand how badly we have strayed.
I agree with you about educating ourselves on the issues,instead of just by the media & how others stand on their beliefs. I really feel Ron Paul is sincere in his stands. I would like to understand how he fills about, us helping those who are being oppressed, especially the innocent children. & if he understands how Hitler took over Austria & other countries, & got them to fight against us, & other countries, out of sheer desperation, to save themselves,&their families. I agree that securing our borders is one of the main issues that need addressing, for it is the enemy among us ,that brought such destruction to America on 9/11. Where would I get Paul’s full understanding of his view on war & helping others opressed?
Is this the Tea Party?
Here are the results not insider propaganda.
Paul 21431
Gingrich 5773
Cain 3113
Bachmann 2329
Romney 2317
Santorum 1009
Huntsman 404
Pawlenty 325
PAUL–GINGRICH 2012
R u kidding me? Ron Paul won the debate, hands down.
I always find it interesting when “conservatives” like Eric Odom tell Ron Paul supporters, “Hey, stop insisting on perfection – if a candidate agrees with you 90%, then support him!”
Then I read Eric Odom saying, “about 90% of what Ron Paul had to say was tugging at my vote throughout the debate. The problem is, the other 10% of what Paul says confirms the idea that I should stay away.”
Eric, stop being part of the problem, and become part of the solution. You know that out of any of the current or potential candidates, Ron Paul is the only one that has a chance to restore America to its Constitutional greatness.
Climb on board, Eric.
What about Perry’s connection to the Bilderberg Group. Soros , cCinton and Obama are connected to it . Please check it out on infowars.com
Ron Paul is demented if he thinks Iran poses no threat.
Newt Gingrich was the winner in a class by himself.
I thought Bachmann came off strong & well. Pawlenty looked like he was trying desperately to maintain relevance in her shadow, as well as Romney’s. Huntsman was a sad joke; Romeny was slick and polished…too much so. Gingrich looked great, but the baggage he has is too much, you’re right there. Ron Paul, I concur, exactly. Over-all, I think the big winner, like you said, was Perry. Odd, isn’t it?
I think we are pretty much in agreement. Romney looked presidential. Somebody on TV last night said that Pawlenty was like a suicide bomber going after Bachman. I think he succeeded and made her look bad while derailing whatever campaign he might have had. This was the best Newt has looked like in years; but probably too little too late. Huntsman and Santorum still look like lightweights. I thought Herman Cain was impressive and Ron Paul is like your favorite aged uncle…….right most of the time but just too nutty to really take seriously. Of course I am backing Romney all the way so I am a little biased; but at least I am man enough to admit my biases.
Ron Paul won hands down. He will be the next President of the United States.
Although I agree with much of what Newt said last night, I could never vote for a man who would desert two wives in the midst of their catastrophic illnesses. I want character in a president and despite his brilliance as a thinker, his place is NOT in the white house. I would love to see a candidate, though, who listens to his ideas. Too many of the other candidates, including Michelle, have Obama’s problem: not enough experience in actually running something large, i.e., a state or large city or cabinet position or business, and preferably most, if not all, of the above. Mr. Cain has done one but he obviously knows very little about the rest of the world. We MUST have someone who actually knows what capitalism means. Experience and competence imeans more than being correct in every litmus test. I’m not really happy with any candidate at the moment, but Romney, Pawlenty and Huntsman at this moment fit that criteria more than the other candidates. I’m disappointed in Pawlenty’s performance and not sure of Huntsman’s convictions. I would love to see a few other candidates who offer experience in actual governing. I would have loved Mitch Daniels.
I was not impressed with Romney again.The bickering between Bachmann and Pawlenty was just playing into the moderators hands.They had a good laugh. Newt did impress me.He sounded like the most serious and prepared contender but I still think he has too many negatives to get the nomination.Ron Paul has a lot of good points but then just like Perot, he starts with the crazy talk.Herman Cain….if the election were today, he would get my vote in a New York minute. We will have to explore Perry and see if he is all he is touted to be. One thing for sure, any one of them would be a better choice than what we have now and I would vote for my do before I would vote for Obama again.
Newt was fantastic. Given the way things can turn on a dime in politics, I don’t know why you believe he can’t get the nomination.
As for Bachmann/Pawlenty, I disagree that Michelle lost ground. I thought she was terrific, though not as presidential as Newt. Pawlenty, however, did himself in. I think I know what he was trying to do – namely, come out strong after the last debate. But his effort was a complete miss. He was nothing if not meanspirited where Michelle was concerned. It came off as a giant turn-off. If his instincts are this poor, I can’t see him recovering from this performance. It’s too bad.
I disagree with the opinion that Newt Gingrich was a winner. He said a lot of good things but I did not like his tone. Personally I like Chris Wallace and his questions addressed Gingrich’s ability as a manager. We have seen the problem caused by electing a president with no executive experience. Our best presidents have been former governors or generals. Newt’s personality and past infidelity are a big turnoff with me.
Furthermore, where Ron Paul’s domestic policies are admittedly right on, his foreign policy statements were positively unhinged. And if I am not mistaken, he is not a friend of Israel. He’s a non-starter in my book.
Israel has nukees. Let them dispatch Iran if they want to. Neither of these desert dwellers should be getting our money through foreign aid handouts. They could both be nuked of the face of the earth tomorrow and OUR LIVES WOULD NOT CHANGE AT ALL….
Who won to me out all of those present……Herman Cain and Mitt Romney. I think the others are too polarizing, and we need to remember the other voters – not our very favorite conservative. Mitt Romney goverened a state with a majority of democrats, but he is a successful businessman. Herman Cain is a darkhorse, but his business acumen excells, and he is very conservative. Any of those can take down BHO in a debate, and especially if he doesn’t have his teleprompters.
I will vote for whoever is running against Obama; however, will a majority of our country and will it get the electorate votes? That’s my concern, and if you think there was fraud before, just wait…..this is going to be fraud like we’ve never seen before. It is not going to be pretty.
Ron Paul – does he think he lives on an island? I’m not concerned about Iran against the U.S.; however, how about a nuclear attack on Israel – that’s a probabity – then Mr. Paul – what then? And, Iran by itself, I’m still not concerned; but how about all the other Middle Eastern regimes? When it comes to getting tough and mean, I don’t think he can do it, and I think he’ll waver. We are not living in the same world that we were when Clinton was President. And, the Middle Eastern countries only respect strength – not bowing down and kissing their hand, and placating their every whim and vacillating. No, we need to demand respect and who is going to do that? And, who is going to get the votes for the electoral college? Perhaps not our favorite person and our favorite conservative candidate – they have got to be the President for all of the United States. Give it up and unite behind a great candidate.
I am a native Texan, over 70 years, and a woman. I can be as soft as butter, and hard as nails, but I know I’m right. We don’t need polarization. And, I love Mark Levin, but I don’t agree with his position 100%. We Must Win This Election, or we can forget the country that we once had. We can vote our representatives to be as conservative as we chose from our districts, but think of “Who Can Win the votes in the U.S.?”
And, Jay, I echo your wishes that we all come together to work our way out of this mess.
Respectfully,
Barbara
Pawlenty was pitiful. He may as well drop out now. I thought Bachmann handled Pawlenty beautifully and absolutley disagree with you about her. I like Newt Gingrich and Herman Cain. Don’t know anything about Perry, may change my mind once I get to know him. As of now its a tossup between Cain and Gingrich. This biggest losers were the Questionners, especially Chris Wallace (his father would be so ashamed of him) and the lady. I don’t remember her name. The other two questionners weren’t as bad.
I’m sorry, but how someone who claims to be part of the ‘Liberty’ news network… can be so negative towards the ONE candidate who’s campaign is founded on Liberty, Freedom, and a return the country’s Constitutional roots, is beyond me. Perhaps Mr. Odom has been smoking some of the ‘weed’ that Dr. Paul wants to let the states regulate instead of the 20+ years of failed federal intervention.
Is Iran a threat to us? WHO CARES!! Nobody (except Paul supporters) can fathom that perhaps he is right… the only reason they hate us, is because we are spending so much time in the Middle East trying to tell those countries how to live!
Bring our soldiers home, have them protect our borders, and keep those that hate us, out of the country. Plain and simple. We can gladly help those who WANT our help, but where we are not wanted, why do WE feel the need to interject OUR beliefs on other lands?
After all Mr. Odom… do you want the far left telling you you MUST accept abortion, gay marriage, and the like? How can you possibly justify our involvement in ANY foreign country?
The winner was… someone who was not there, and has not yet officially announced their candidacy. That sounds like a man who knows what he is doing…
For years, I have stood behind the Republican party… and associated myself with only ‘born again believers’…..however the more I am around either… the more I find myself wondering why…. for they both only seem to be serving themselves….
Please help donate to the cause….and everyone has their own cause….
Mr Odom, you are a disgrace to the cause of TRUE liberty.
I wish the media would stop with the gotcha questions. I think Newt was great in more ways than one. I think he still has a chance. I’m not a Romney fan and I don’t see where he was all that great. The media is still trying to pick our candidate. They want Romney going against Obama and that isn’t what I want. I like Bachmann, Newt, Santorum and Cain. Pawlenty is a bit moderate for me as is Romney. As for Presidential, I just don’t care about the person “looking” Presidential. I want a hard nosed fiscally conservative person who knows what is important for our country. As long as they have a good head and they know their limitations so they can bring in people to strengthn their weeknesses where necessary I’ll be happy. I think Romney thinks he is Mr Business and the last thing I want is another narssicist
Personally, I want a person who speaks like I think and is out for America. Most are Political Talkers that are not talking to the real Americans,and that is the ones that work hard everyday and do what they are suppose to do for there American Dream. Bachmann and Cain, as well as Palin are my choices as they make more sense with less political rhetoric. WE need real root people in DC and not the Parasites we have now. If we don’t do it this time right we will lose our Freedom as we know it.
Rick Perry’s handlers know that a debate can only hurt him. That was proven during the gubernatorial republican primary debates. It was no surprise that he then refused to debate Bill White. Not much substance under that hair.
Based upon the comments I’ve read here, I don’t think I was watching the same debate the others were. This was my first debate for this election cycle and I’ve had only general exposure to most of the candidates. Given that, my impression was if we want the same results we’ve always had, then chose the Romneys and Newts and carry on. If we want new direction, then place your bets on Rick Santorum and Herman Cain. They were the only two who appeared to have both the passion and common sense needed to get the job done. One of the comments I read referred to Senator Santorum as a whiner. I hear someone who was frustrated by the same old cow manure being spread around the table. Maybe I’m naïve, but as a 70 year old boy from the country I certainly recognize BS when I hear it.
Have a blessed day,
Archie Hanna
Arhie – you certainly have earned your right to vote. If only more voters could recognizw BS. Why does everyone think they can count out Santorum? He is an honest man with experience that is working himself to exhaustion. Not much name recognition, hardly any money, just good old fashioned American “you can make it by hard work.” His supporters need to put pressure on the media to give him some air time. All the nay sayers can look up his record. In the meantime, I guess me and Archie can spread the word. There is an honest, hardworking, consistant conservative that loves this country. HIS NAME IS RICK SANTORUM.
Bachmann won!
Would someone please tell Ron Paul to retire. He is truly an embarassment. Let Iran have the bomb. That is so wrong on so many levels. He doesn’t know or understand history. We cannot just mind our own business. Santorum and Lincoln are completely right about the 10th Amendment. It does not give the states a free ride to do wrong.
I think Bachman did just fine but Pawlenty will drop. I think this race will be between Bachman and Perry. All bets are off if Sarah Palin enters the race. Romney is a RINO and the race has not yet begun. When people start to pay attention he will drop as he has done in the past.
As for experience, we have had a few presidents with no leadership experience. Lincoln comes to mind.
FOX NEWS “Who Won the Debate” online poll.
Paul 21879
Gingrich 5783
Cain 3123
Bachmann 2340
Romney 2322
Santorum 1014
Huntsman 407
Pawlenty 327
Ron Paul won all 50 states, including Utah. Sorry Mitt. Yet the media and it’s sheeple followers still live in denial. If you do not vote for Ron Paul you may as well vote for Obama. They are all the same cookie-cutter, status quo, two-faced, liars
Ron Paul also dominated in Ames and Iowa in general on the poll map. The Straw Poll is already in the bag.
“If ever a time should come, when vain and aspiring men shall possess the highest seats in Government, our country will stand in need of its experienced patriots to prevent its ruin.” – Samuel Adams
Im still old school, In God I still Trust.-The Bible is still absolutely TRUE. I believe in a God that is so Big, you can’t put Him in a Box. If you can put your god in a box you are believing an Idol. God don’t like that! Our country still is having a problem with the 6th commandment. Our tax dollars are being spent against the will of the People, causing a real curse on our USA. Repent befor God and do the right thing so we can be Blessed again. It is a lot more fun and rewarding to be Blessed!! Jesus said we would always have the poor. Who will take care of the poor if our government takes our money. When our Congress, or our President can give/deliver to a poor family a $150 in food for $15.
Then there is hope, but right now the Body of Christ seems to have no problem (doing this) helping the poor by our giving. God promised in Malichi 3, 10,11,12. if we honor Him with our tithes (10% of increase/income) we will always have enough. In Fact He dares us try Him and let Him prove this promise. God can not Lie! There is a lot of opportunities in the USA for Jobs, there is no faith to believe God, to recieve them. Faith come by hearing the Word of God, when is the last time you read aloud the promises of God. Have you ever read Proverbs or Psalms. Read about yourself in Psalm 139. Luke 2 is True!! WATCH OUR FOR VERSE 18. What did you do when you heard the Good News?
In the whole group, I like Herman Cain, he does have Godly wisdom, he is a good possibility.
My immediagte favorite now is Gov. Rick Perry, he has proven he can do the job. I like Ron Paul, he is the only one in Congress who has tried to get a Balanced Budge out of Congress every year he has been in Congress. I believe given a real opporturnity to do just that as President would be very helpful for the USA. God has not given me a clear canidate yet. But there is not one of the others worth my vote. The Voting opportunity we have in the USA is a real priviledge, our family appreciates this and is very thankful-we consider this not to be taken lightly. We will study the candidates based on their fear of God, not man.
Anyone that makes decisions based on fear loses. Anyone who makes decisions based on Faith, will always be right. It gives God an opportunity to make it so. He gets All the Glory and we get to testify about How Good God is!!! What is wrong with that? dh
Actually I really liked Cain and Bachmann, but I think Cain won. I didn’t particularly care to watch any candidate attack another. That they were encouraged to do so by the moderators and that the questions asked by the same moderators were subpar for Fox was very disappointing. Instead of asking Bachmann if she would submit to her husband I would have rather found out if she planned to recind all former presidential executive orders!
You’re saying Rick “Forced STD Vaccinations” Perry won? Yeah, obviously he’s a guy who follows the Constitution (rolls eyes).
Ron Paul is the only real Constitutionalist running. A man who actually predicted the recession, and the only one who accepts free-markets unequivocally.
Ron Paul won, and if he doesn’t win the nomination, I’m voting Libertarian. Bush=Obama=Perry=Romney (Big Government Totalitarian Party).
Michelle Buchmann & Newt Gringrich
Well, I find it interesting that just about everyone commenting is so educated on the issues that they realize the media, FOX this time, is pandering to an entertainment audience. I don’t think that they realize that We The People are into the issues and not entertainment. We want to hear substance. We want details on their economic policies (that means you Huntsman) and their foreign policies. We want to hear about their principles and how that is in contrast from Obama’s. And we want to hear some fire, like Newt gave Wallace – because we are sick and tired and we don’t want to take the unconstitutional garbage that Obama and Reid and Pelosi are doing anymore. We are mad as hell and we don’t want to take it anymore and we want a leader that is going to say that and then do it.
I thought Herman Cain was great again. Newt has got the ideas and he is not intimidated by anyone, as he showed, but I don’t feel like I can trust him. I want to, cause he says all the right things, but I just don’t trust him. Bachmann did great, I don’t know why you think she didn’t. She held her own and didn’t back down from a nasty fight – she fought the fight as she has for the last 2 1/2 years. I believe that she and Santorum and Cain are the only ones that really get what Obama really is. Romney is eh. He certainly won’t steer the ship back to the direction of the Constitution – he’s one of the D.C. crowd. I don’t trust Perry either, but I trust him more than Romney.
I want to hear about where they really believe Obama is taking our country and don’t hold back and play nice. I want to hear about the dirty tricks the Dems have pulled to tear our country apart and how the Repubs had lost their way from their core values and principles and they are now going to go full throttle to the right towards the Constitution not left towards a totalitarian government.
No one won the debate because every Republican would not attack Obama and his policies. What the Republicans should be talking about is that Obama has not developed any plan because he is too busy playing golf, campaigning, throwing parties and taking vacations. What the Republicans should be saying is that Obama not only did not secure the border but is involved in gun running to Mexican cartels. What Republicans should be saying is that there was a trillion dollar stimulus package and a million jobs were lost. What Republicans should be saying is that Obama has personally destroye jobs by shuting down our oil exploration while giving tax dollars to Brazil to develope thier oil exploration. What Republicans should be saying is that Obama has not given SENIORS a cost of living adjustment while giving huge pay increases to his staff and his 35 CAZRS and Michele’s 24 staff and limosines to all of his cronies. These are just facts that Republicans are afraid to mention. Republicans should expose Obama’s reckless behavior.
I love Sarah Palin… she’s my pick. Herman Cain, I like very much. Newt was impressive last night and in my eyes he won the debate last night. I feel Herman Cain seemed more Reaganish than anyone with that wit of his. Romney and Paul… please, no thank you. They are complete opposites sides of the same “wooden nickel”. No matter what you call, heads or tails, you would still loose.
yeah i bet you “LOOSE” all the time troll.
Watched the whole affair. First take? It wqs a reality show style forum – certainly not a debate, even though there were a few head butts.
Bottom line – the two most intelligent and, in my observation, presidential candidtates were Santorum and Gingrich.
They weren’t “shackled’ by the fear that what they said would not be accepted.
Santorum & Gingrich were spot-on, to the point, and showed that they actually have thought out their positions before being asked by the “gotcha” media.
Fox was the loser for the evening. They ran the production like it was just that a rating game! Unfortunately, very predictable “set-ups”
They could have done a much better job.
I totally agree that all candidates should listen to Newt and his practical solutions, and express the fervor he did when he attacked the creation of this stupid committee. Unfortunately he’s lost the enthusiasm and energy he had when h ewas Speaker and is not a viable candidate.
Also unfortunately, I don’t see anyone among the candidates who till now displays the dynamics and clarity of thought to carry a substantial portion of the vote for President (it’s not going to be easy to oust Obama, despite the current atmosphere). Maybe Perry will be the exception but I fear he’ll be identified too much with Bush in personal characteristics that turned so many people against Bush…..his swagger (though innocent), his identity with Texas and major oil interests, his apparent overly religious demeanor, etc. I hope I’m wrong because we really need a mover and shaker. In the past I thought Giuliani was this person but he’s lost a lot since being Mayor of NYC.
Ron Paul was obviously the statesman on stage last night. The rest were, in different degrees, politicians. Sometimes you just gotta vote for the candidate that is right, whether you agree with them on 100% of all issues or not. Ron Paul has, absolutely, the best understanding of our Constitution and how to get this country back on track, bar none.
Dr. Paul gets my vote, as he did with 48% of those polled. He nearly doubled the next closest debater’s vote total. Just goes to show that we are not all sheeple out here in the real world.
Herman Cain also has a good understanding of the Constitution and has the business experience to do a good job, should he decide to run as VP on the ticket. I would really like a Ron Paul / Herman Cain ticket on the 2012 ballot. We, the people, would get a 2 for 1 (win/win) for our vote.
I, too, was disappointed with the questions and the format of the debate. Newt was right about some of the questions being “gotcha” questions, and the other panelists should have repeated what Newt said in response to many of the questions the panel received. The “submission” question for M. B. was juvenile and totally “gotcha!” And how come Ron Paul got to speak and speak and speak…while Rick Santorum had to hold his tongue while Ron went on and on with his “Iran is no threat” theme. Personally, I was impressed with Rick Santorum who made some great points on the 10th amendment and the “gay agenda,” and the threat of a nuclear Iran being a world changing event that he would not allow to happen if he were President. I thought Michelle Bachman looked “out of her element, but her answers and rebuttals were very good. Romney was…..well….”ROMNEY”. Cool, in control, and evasive when necessary. Newt was brilliant – and fiesty! Herman Cain was solid and real and very believable. Ron Paul, Pawlenty and Huntsman are finished as far as I am concerned.
Perry will change the whole scene – and I am looking forward to watching and listening to him as he enters the race with only a reputation working for him at this point. But, tonight, Sarah Palin was interviewed on Sean Hannity’s show…and WOW!! I remembered why the political world went nuts when she was chosen as John McCain’s running mate. She is dynamite!! And if it weren’t for the total hate she seems to draw from the left, I wish she would run. She has something that I haven’t seen in the others — An overflowing PASSION for getting things turned around in this country! It’s not fake, and it is not forced – she is real – She is NOT afraid – and she really connects with “the people.” The country needs her PASSION in its President – and I haven’t seen this in any other candidate like I have in Sarah Palin. I hope she runs! Maybe her PASSION will catch on with the others. As for Fox – I hope they do things differently next time – they did not do a very good job. I think they were just going for ratings by creating controversy. Why not let Brit Hume and Charles K. O’Reilly, Neal Cavuto and Greta ask the questions? I think that would have been a LOT better.
But, having said all that……ANY of the Republicans would be a thousand times better than what we’ve got now!!!
Gingrich was the winner, followed by Romney and Bachman. Gingrich by far has the most knowledge of government, knows the actual problems that need addressed, and has REAL solutions, no learning curve.
Bachman is a fighter, and stands for principles, and the constitution.
Rick Perry, has dealt with the issues at hand, jobs, immigration, energy independence, 2nd Amendment issues, and has governed a state. ANY WAY IT GOES, THE REPUBLICANS ARE WINNING!!
Newt won the yawner that was the Iowa debate. Ron Paul showed conviction, but lost me with Iran. I needed to hit the snooze button to follow the rest — particularly the tit-for-tat between Bachmann and Pawlenty.
Perry wasn’t there, Eric, nor was Reagan. Geez, I really think this country is lost. Maybe it’s time we draft Glenn Beck.
We used to have a basketball coach here in Arkansas who gave opponents 40 minutes of hell until he lost the fire in his belly. That seems to be what has happened to the Republican Party. If it weren’t for Obama, I’d be sitting out this election or voting third party one more time. However, if you want to get Obama reelected, just put Romney at the head of the GOP ticket in 2012. ObamaCare/RomneyCare, who cares?
Some paid advisor must have told Pawlenty that if he knocks Michelle out he will have a chance. He has a chance alright…NO CHANCE! He’s a milktoast. Funny how the press gave that Congressman from NY hell for “encroaching on Hilary’s space” but Pawlenty can try to undress Bachman with no repercussions. Typical! Every person on that stage except for Pawlenty can beat Obummer. Check out the polls…an unnamed Repub. beats Obummer. The problem is when you give a name to the opponent, everyone has their favorite, and it dilutes the total. Whoever runs will beat him….how about Bachman(Pres) and Perry(VP) with Romney; Secy of State, Newt; Nat’l security advisor, Santorum; Atty Gen., Ron Paul; EPA, Herman Cain; Labor, the Donald; ambassador to China, Hunstman; liason to the Dem Party, etc. etc., you get the picture! We all Win
Yes, Pawlenty just burned any bridges for a vote from me. I detested his attacks on Michelle, and his lies to convey them as well.
I absolutely disagree, and feel Michelle Bachman did great, and she
is who we support totally.
Norm & Kay Huxman
Arvada, Co.
I will not support Romney, because of Romney Care, and his continuing
excuses for it, and for his falling for the fraud of global warming, and other
non conservative stances.
I agree!
I think Newt won because he gave honest answers – especially about the phony committee of 12 partisan members of Congress who will be locked against each other and defense budgets will be held hostage. Perry is a wait and see candidate – Paul is way too out there to be President- Mitt is a little too polished and needs to stick his neck out — in order to defeat Obama — the Republican must be strong and unafraid as Obama will do everything possible including running a nasty, mud throwing campaign. Bachmann is my second choice – she stands up for her beliefs and has fought against Mr. Obama from the start of his awful process of terrible decisions. The others in the debate should drop out soon because they are way too weak to take on Mr. Obama.
You’re right that Rick Perry won. He took no positions, answered no questions, and received eight endorsements. How could he not win?
But the clear loser was Fox News. The moderators provoked arguments between candidates and implied in each question that our candidates are weird. Even using invalid information, their questions were prefaced to limit candidates to structured reactions. If CNN or PBS would have done this, we would be screaming. When Chris Wallace shapes controversy and deliberately implies information is true which has been proven false, he is attempting to belittle, limit, and antagonize. What a bunch of losers! What a shame.
But if I were voting tomorrow, I would vote for Santorum. He seems to have a realistic grasp of social issues which he can articulate. He supports Ron Paul’s attempt to audit the fed. And, he understands the budget, the Constitution, and the legislative process which he has worked to achieve results.
Without a doubt Ron Paul was the winner. He is rational and without ‘ego’. In other words, he is a truly genuine fellow. Dr. Paul stated the obvious about Iran…’.leave them alone’ and ‘we have interfered enough in the past in that country.’ I agree with him that America has to stop being so imperialistic, especially in the Middle East. Over 2 million civilians are dead in Iraq and Afghanistan because of the ‘lies’ of politicians. There was more of the same ‘lies’ written by the ‘controllers’ or military/industrial/congressional complex for these new Republican ‘want to bes! Their willingness to tout such ‘lies’ makes me sick!
Gingrich was the clear winner in the debate. Next was Santorum – his statement defending the right to life in the case of incest was eloquent and persuasive. About time we saw this from a Republican candidate. Bachman actually did OK in this debate. Awkward moments often occur when making a principled stand against one who is appealing to the practical side. This is where Bachman found herself as against the loser Pawlenty.
By the way, since Bachman is leading in Iowa, it was she who had the most to lose in this debate, not Romney.
Perry the winner? Big joke. This is only for those with lots of pre-conceived notions – and political junkies who listen to other such junkies and pundits.. He may wind up with considerable support. However, he will not get that support by staying away from debates.
Who was the winner last night? Sarah Palin. Her down-home statements on Sean Hannity captured anyone paying attention.
Back to Newt. I weary of pundits who start by saying he has no chance. It was clear he gained ground last night, because of his grasp of the issues and his ability to articulate them. As a result, I think he will gain a bit of ground in the polls. Perhaps from 5 or 6 to 7 or 8. If he does this every time, he’ll be in double figures pretty soon.
The Dems chose Obama not because he was the best but the most winnable. My wife & I think Romney/Bachmann ticket may not be the best but most winnable because it would unite both ends of the conservative movement.
Well, my wife agreed with your analysis. Pawlenty destroyed himself with his character assination. I liked Newt. My wife agreed that he was the brightest of the bunch. I liked his approach to deficit reduction.
We desperately need to throw out this Obama yahoo. We must select a strong candidate. If we can’t do that, there’s something wrong with us.
I am a fiscal conservative, not a social conservative. Gingrich won my vote. We need a moderate candidate, or the Repubolicans are in trouble, and so is our country, for Obama will beat a religious right candidate, badly. The Religious Right is turning off millions of people in both parties, including myself. Gingrich came on strong, extremely knowledgeable and powerful – the others not so. We need someonw who won’t take the sh__ from anyone, not someone who is always “politically correct”. I actually would be thrilled to see Trump or Christy step in. I think they would blow the other candidates out of the water. (I am a Moderate Republican, and do not appreciate what the Far Right has done to my party. They should form their own party and battle it out. ) I am not alone in my opinion. Every Republican I know (and there are many) feels the same way I do. If a Far Right socially-conservative candidate wins the primary, I just won’t vote, along with many others. I could never force myself to vote for a religious right demagoge.
I was impressed with all on the platform, favorably, except for PAWlenty. He sounded like a teenage girl – spiteful, throwing spitballs at his competition. What a nitwit. I didn’t like him the first time I heard him, and can’t tolerate his ignorant behavior. Further, he nagged and whined on and on about Obama (when he wasn’t sniping Michele). We already know ALL of Obama’s faults, we need to hear something new.
Michele Bachmann was shocked, I think, that “PAWs” would actually say the things that he did. I thought she acted with HUGE restraint – I would have really hammered him. But, she was very much a lady, a woman, and a sincere and honest candidate. It’s hard to be strong and not be a bully or a witch, and she is the exception, imo. Michele is a keeper.
Newt was strong, and has good, easy to understand reasoning. I agree
with him about the “gotcha” questions – ‘sick and tired of the waste of time. He’s right about the ‘jumping ship’ of his crew. And they aren’t running, he is. That kind of interest from the media smacks of ‘rumor tabloids’, and is ridiculous to bring it up, again.
Romney was a lot more positive than last I heard him speak. I see a lot more in him that’s worthy than before. ‘Hope it’s not just ‘practice’, but perhaps a loosening of his true character. We’ll see.
Ron Paul is so sold on his ideology – and I agree with a lot of it. He just doesn’t turn loose of the ‘kooky’ ideas enough to be a solid president, imo.
I was very impressed with Rick Santorum. He was very strong in his answers, correct, imo, and had a lot of energy with a smidge of humor. He has come a long way, since I last heard him.
I really like Herman Cain. He has his feet on the ground, and his heart with the good of America – all of America. He actually has a sensible plan for the future. He didn’t get nearly enough questions, imo; but I have never seen him hesitate to answer, and he is very articulate – leaves no room for doubt. He is not stuck on himself, but he has an excellent resumé – thus, a lot of self-confidence. He also has a great sense of humor – not stale, canned jokes, and seems to enjoy life. I believe he will get stronger and more embraceable, as he is given more opportunities to present himself.
Rick Perry? We’ll see.
Herman Cain is the man for me. He is not a typical politician. Most of the other republican candidates are what I term “career politicians” and have their own personal political agendas. I believe Herman Cain is a “Gitter Done” man who can turn this country around.
The clear overall winner: Bachmann. Those crappy question and that fighting was the best thing that could have happened to her. She was a bit nervous but came across poised and stayed positive and reminded me most like Reagan of anyone there. and went from my second to my first pick.
Romney, hurt. His rhetoric given his history sound like a wannabe Conservative trying to shed his RINO skin.
Pawlenty similarly looks like he was desperately be something he is not.
Cain and Paul did well for themslves and remain my 2nd and 3rd pick, as
Santorum is too religiously conservative and has no hope in a general election; and Huntsman is wasting his money trying to convince anyone he is even a RINO. He’s do better challenging Obama for the nomination.
Gingrich, sadly… had decent points but came across in his rant at the media as shrill and barely hinged, and dangerous to be president. Still I strongly hope he becomes part of the Bachmann / Cain or Bachmann / Perry administration.
Clear loser: Gingrich
Long term losers: Pawlenty & Romney 7 even Rick Perry
Clear winner: Bachmann. Her poise and positivity under attack have taken away any reason to choose perry over her, and will make him a 2nd place contender.
Debates never change my opinion which I attempt to base on the long term actions of the candidates with my personal biases thrown in These debates are a contrived nonsense which allow a partisan hack to try to destroy the candidate he dislikes. Wallace is a liberal hack, son of a liberal hack and should never be on a supposed fair and balanced show, he has previously played gotcha games with Bachmann. York and NRO have ran many anti Palin and Bachmann articles. Perry once on the Gore team and extremely open border-amnesty should never be considered by a true conservative. In my opinion cutting through the charade of the “debate” Bachmann came out the one genuine person there.
I didn’t see Gingrich as winning the day. I also didn’t think Bachmann did poorly. If you were attacked relentlessly by the media and pawlenty, I’d think you might come back as well. Yes, Perry is going to give everyone a run for their money. I liked Bachmann, Cain, (Paul looked Lame), and Perry. Yes, I know, Perry wasn’t there, but I don’t want Gingrich or Romney. Enough said.
Romney” Was right on 10th amendment there is no CONSTITUTIONAL enumeration for healthcare therefore it is a state issue the 14th amendment outlaws slavery for ALL the states what was amazing was how few understood that PS not crazy about Romney but he was right.
Newt good points but yes he has no chance. Re Bachmann wasn’t as bad as you suggest IMHO. Paul agree with you the 10% makes him nuts. Cain I also like. Perry on the other hand who is being pushed by the media has a lot of warts starting with his relationship with Al Gore and the NAU etc
I keep hearing Romney looked presidential. I don’t care if someone looks presidential; I want to know if he or she can be presidential. Gingrich improved his image and is a smart man. Probably the smartest one up there. For me Ron Paul is over. Pawlenty looked to aggressive. I thought Bachman was fine and stands a good chance. did not care for Huntsman’s comments at all. Santorum was great, but not sure if he can make it. Hermann Cain made a great impression on me. Sarah Palin still stands a chance if she decides to run. I think Gingrich was right about the media and Wallace’s questions. We really wanted to hear about what the candidates thoughts were. What did Gingich’s workers have to do with that? Glad he was called out on that question is was a stupid one that had nothing to do with how a candidate would run the country.
Interesting! The author’s reaction basically mirrors my own! Check out what I wrote on my blog directly following the debate:
The two big winners tonight were Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney.
As regular readers know, I’ve never been a fan of Romney (I just don’t trust him) and as for Newt… over the past few years he’s lost much of my respect via actions such as his “reluctant” support of TARP and by supporting government subsidized ethanol production – not to mention “private” actions that simply rub me the wrong way.
This said… I call ‘em as I see ‘em and what I saw tonight was two men – Gingrich and Romney – elevated themselves by their performances in my eyes.
The biggest loser?
Heck… it’s not even a close call! Tonight’s “Biggest Loser” was without doubt Chris Wallace.
Gingrich simply tore Wallace to pieces – and clawed a bit of flesh off moderator Bret Baier as well!
Michele Bachmann? Pawlenty went after her. Santorum went after her. (*SHRUG*)
The panel members questioning the candidates obviously had a pre-planned agenda to push Pawlenty and Bachmann into a brawl and they succeeded.
Santorum’s only shot at a VP slot is to take out Bachmann – so he tried his best. (*SHRUG*)
The thing is… while Bachmann didn’t do as well in this debate compared to the first debate, in my view Pawlenty put paid to any chance he ever had at winning the nomination and as for Santorum… as previously noted… he just had to take Bachmann out in order to preserve even the hope of a VP slot. He failed.
Huntsman? (Let’s put it this way: Jon Who…???)
Cain? He did o.k…. perhaps o.k. enough to be Secretary of Commerce in the next Republican Presidential administration.
Ron Paul? Hey… if I could make Ron Paul President of the United States I would, but the average American simply just doesn’t know enough to understand how right Ron Paul is on so many issues.
To bottom line it, at least based upon tonight’s debate, Newt Gingrich has emerged as a real contender for the VP slot under… well… any Republican candidate who becomes the eventual nominee.
(Heck… Newt may even have won the title “Dark Horse GOP Presidential Nominee” via his stellar performance tonight!)
That said… Michele Bachmann is also a strong contender for the VP slot.
To those who viewed Mitt Romney as the smart money odds on favorite for the GOP nod prior to tonight’s debate… (*PAUSE*)… even though I’m not one of you, I must state my opinion that following this evening’s debate… Mitt is (for the moment) leading the pack.
Ah… but what about Rick Perry, Sarah Palin and Rudy Giuliani?
I doubt Palin will run. I may be wrong. We’ll see.
Same with Giuliani.
Perry though… (*PAUSE*)… his “unofficial” entry into the race is about as “official” as it can get prior to an actual official announcement following filing all the necessary paperwork.
Perry’s candidacy is a game changer as I see it. The moment Perry enters the race, he becomes the new front runner – at least as far as I’m concerned.
Here’s the thing about Perry: he could choose Bachmann as his running mate and that would work… he could choose Gingrich as his running mate and that would work… he could choose Giuliani as his running mate and that would work…
Heck! He could even choose Sarah Palin as his running mate and… assuming she’d do it… that would make a mighty strong ticket and indeed draw all the oxygen out of the room.
(I know you Palin haters violently disagree… but you’re wrong; Palin would rehabilitate herself on the campaign trail with Rick Perry at the head of the ticket.)
Anyway… we’ll see what the newspapers, the “experts,” and the pundits have to say about the debate when the sun rises tomorrow and no doubt all through the weekend.
I thought Michele Bachmann did a wonderful job – also New Gingrich is clearly the true leader among the candidates. Too bad you write them both off so quickly. I think it’s just a bad habit to put them down. Would be better to look at their actual knowledge and skills – I’d like to see some combination of Romey/Backmann/Gingrich in the administration. People have for years just tried to discount Gingrich – thank God he still has enough courage to at least try – and he has contributed much to this county.
Overall i was very impressed with Newt. I know he has received a lot of neg. publicity, but he was the only one on that stage that exhibited real heart felt frustration about what has happened to the country under Obama. He also talked about the need for urgency and I feel he has the experience we need in a leader. The others to me just seemed like more of the same except for Bachman, who unfortunately in my opinion doesn’t get the respect she deserves either.
I think Bachman is doing great and don’t agree with you. Some of these people running have been written off already as far as REAL Christians ( followers of Christ) are concerned. We are tired of the same old same old be it Dem’s or Rep. We are out to get rid of these people for good before they totally destroy what what are framers put together for this country and we will do as they did to take this country back.
I would also like to add that in a debate I think Gingrich would sweep the floor with Obama on every issue.
Ron Paul—is the most understood presence in america. Honestly; if anyone thiks we should be in the Middle East and our presence there has changed anyone thing —other than our young men and women have died for something that truly will never be won. Bush/cronies went into Iraq for what reason—WMD –none! Bush had the support of war from all of congress/americans—? could he also have gotten support for an all out energy independence agenda—without war! I believe –bush agenda was a brainless idiot on a power agenda—where in the heck was our national security through all of this—–this is whom I first would have consulted. America can be great —but only through its understanding of greatness—greatness is created through acts of achievement and achievement is growth for the future of ones direction. This direction and concern over the Middle East should be dwarfed by the economic concerns relating to the blunder of Bush. We could be energy independent if all was spent towards greatness, our country needs independence from the middle east. Iran—-come on; those idiots are talk—-all we need to say to them is “we have star wars and it is pointed directly in there direction,” this is about as believable as those idiots ever destroying there land and there country—-I agree with Ron Paul—why shouldn’t they feel they have respect in there region–Pakistan has nuclear—and look whom was harboring Bin Laden; come on people! wake up —all things considered who are the idiots in this!
I am amazed at everyone’s write off of Pawlenty. I personally like him as a candidate. I strongly believe the next republican candidate needs to have governing experience. You can certainly see the results of someone who does not have it. I give him big kudos on his answer regarding the recent fallen soldiers and our role in the wars. That was off the cuff and very presidential.
I agree with Eric’s assessment of Ron Paul. His view on Iran was the end off his run.
I think Hermain Cain did well as well.
Lastly, I applauded Newt Gingrich putting the media in their place. He did well in the debate and I think he will only get better. I think he would make a great vice president canidate.
I’ll take Rick Perry and Herman Cain as Vice,our country would thrive .I might get a job after four years too!!!!!!
I thought Bachmann did well, and Pawlenty just looked like an idiot. Excuse the harsh words, but his attacks on her really made me dislike him since they were completely unfounded. He was blaming Bachmann for not accomplishing anything with the debt ceiling? What?!
I can go on and on about that…but I disagree with Eric, I think Bachmann did very well. She DEFINITELY has my vote. Perry will not have my vote.
In 2008 I held my nose and voted at the last minute for McCain only because he had Palin as back up. I have reassessed my thinking and have decided that I will no longer hold my nose and hope to get the lesser of the two evils correct. If Romneybama gets the nomination I will absolutely refuse to vote for him and will accept another four from obama. For the idiots who would vote for romney, you deserve another fiour from obama
If Romney gets the nomiation the Republicans will have cooked their own goose. I know too many Republicans that are not likely to vote for him.
Agree, Gary.
If Rommney is the republican nominee, it’s going to hurt big time. He has a lot of liberal DNA, just like another weak McCain. How is Rommney going to fight against Obamacare when Rommney was Obama’s inspiration for healthecare? Please.
I vote for Michelle Bachman, she continues to be the best hope to straighten up Washington.
Neither Rick Perry nor M. Bauchman is worthy of serious tea party support–only Ron Paul–Red China & North Korea has nuclear weapons–Israel has >200. Are we going to continue to go bankrupt just because Iran may get one?
[...] Michele Bachmann has proven her mettle as winner of the Ames Straw Poll, and scored well at the Iowa Debate, others shone through, as well. Those we suspected would do well, did so, and those we thought [...]
Gingrich may have burned a few bridges but the man is brilliant and the only one ready with ideas today. Paul is too far out there, love many of his ideas but we do live in the real world. He will go too far to the other side of Obama. Perry needs to learn some manners. His Saturday declaration was just bad manners. Santorium is still battling for place, Romney changes his mind too much, Cain I like, Bachman I like, she stood her own. I’d like to see Newt as VP and either Cain or Bachman as POTUS
I was not impressed by any of the candiates. We are in trouble, serious
trouble. If this is the best then Obama will win again. We need a candiate with a set of balls, tough, strong financial background. knowledge in constitutional law, conservative, and someone to tell Pelosi and Reid to sit down and shut up.
I want Donald Trump. A man who is going to surround himself with intelligent people who understands a balance sheet. Someone with grit.
We must rid this nation of the poor judgemental errors Hussein made in selecting his V-President who can only speak with vulgarity. Intelligence of a large mole. And one dumb attorney general who is either racial bias or just plain stuck on stupid.
Last chance America. Why not Senator DeMint.
They are trying their best for us to become socialistic like Europe. Destroy this nation by moving it to the left and world will die as well. Again have you heard these members of congress speak. I would love to administer an iq test for Nancy Pelosi. I am going to cry for Harry, he doesn’t have the time to take care of his trees. While we are sinking on the Titantic/
I can afford to be rude and blunt. They are destroying a great nation.
This is one man’s opinion. I was born in Charlottesville, Va. I am a Jeffersonian, a conservative and if it is not broken leave it be.
Next step – remove the presdents executive orders and for all future presidents.
The president is not a legislator – he is not speaker of congress.
Why do we have the house.. They are your voices and not the Senate
Make all bills in singula presentation. Let nothing be added to a bill regardless. No more of Pelosi brillance-after it passes we all can have ice cream and read what’s in it. MY GOD forgive us of our stupidity.
This will save this nation billions. Why don’t these smart republican canidates come up with open creative ideas.
How about cut corporative taxes if they hire only Americans and tax those higher who uses non Americans. Let’s slam the door and create a bill to outlaw lobbyists and have the ELECTION BOARD audited by an outside CPA FIRM and list full disclosure on campaign contributions.
Why not have a progressive capital gains tax predicated on the size of your portfolio. George Sorros.
Let’s us fine the media for bias opinions. Hold them all accountable and maybe someone might start editing before something is printed or read over the air, NBc. There employees are not immune from prosecution and
they are agents of their employers.
Preachers should preach the word of GOD, I would start with Corrithins
and not there personal feelings and thoughts.
Teachers sould do the same. UVA professors -brainwashing liberal
culture. Take a look at UK. If it happens here you will be out of a job Mr and Mrs tenure. For they will eventually burn your university down. Keep preaching Mr. Professor. If Katie Curric is your example, you are in serious
trouble and Harvard blew their credibility with Hussein. What a joke. What a serious joke to lead this nation only knowing macro-economics or micro-economics. Try using common sense. You remind me of meterologists.
Look at the sky at nights and mornings-you will increase your percentage of
accuracy. Why don’t you go start a volcano or something.
Wake up America before you lose it all. Are you afraid. Hell they got you fooled for they are more stupid than you. And they controll you.
Rememer that GOD wanted his deciples to stay united and not to divide among themselves. This house will fall.
Perry is also a RINO. He used to be a dem that “changed” parties. All 3 that this writer supports are RINOs. All 3 will continue politics as usual.
Anyone that supports shamnesty will not get my vote.
Hey, Eric! How much are you being paid to hock Perry as our savior? You have joined the status quo by promoting this wolf in sheep`s clothing. You are showing your true colors,”pink”! Anyone with an ounce of sense can research that Perry is a globalist with ties to the Bilderburg Group. He visited the elitist thugs in 2007. He`s their boy and the sheep will nominate his ugly !@# in 2012.
“Ron Paul might have strengthened his own support base, but he didn’t find any new voters.” WRONG, I have changed my mind and will give him my full support. If the voters would just look to see who the establishment tries to demonize, then you know who to support (i.e. Paul, Cain, Bachmann)
Do you actually expect the talking heads on the boob tube to give the Republicans an impartial forum for debate?
PAUL IN 2012
IT WOULD BE FUN TO WATCH OBAMA TRY TO DEBATE ANY OF THESE CANDIDATES. I WOULDN’T BOTHER TO WATCH ROMNEY OR PERRY AS THEY ARE TOO RINO FOR ME. BUT ANY OF THEM INCLUDING ROMNEY AND PERRY WOULD SHOW HOW CLUELESS OBAMA IS.
I want them hooked up to a lie detector that shocks them with increasingly higher voltage every time they lie (or misspeak). When they reach the level of tazing and render themselves speachless, they are out of the debate. Obama would be out in one question. This is how I would handle a presidential debate.
Without a doubt Herman Cain has show that he is nothing more than a fool. I mean how unwitting do you have to be in order to be caught in a plain lie like this during a national debate. He clearly stated that he was against the Fed Audits which i think are a bad idea anyway but then denied it explicitly. Even though i love Ron Paul i have to say he took this debate.