Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jan, Toledo OH — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:46:20 GMT

Why is Chris Matthews obsessed with Hillary. It gets tiresome to hear his negative comments over and over again. Be fair, Chris. Act like the professional journalist you should be.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Alejandro Pilsen, Phoenix, Arizona — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:48:17 GMT

Romney is the man!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

MO — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:48:34 GMT

I like this debate. The candidates got to talk about the issues and tried to differentiate themselves from the rivals. This debate is far better than the last Democratic debate where Hillary and Obama went on attacking each other.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

John, CT — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:49:08 GMT

Aside from the "I don't care about what voters think" remark that could be taken out of context that was uttered by Romney, I don't think that any candidate really pulled ahead or fell down. This is probably troubling for the Giuliani camp since they are staking his whole campaign now on Florida and he seemed to admit that he had faltered. Given the fact that they were allowed to ask questions of each other, it was fairly surprising that none of them were tough or caught their opponents by surprise. I wonder if it would have been like that if their debate was before this recent Democratic one

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Chaunda,IN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:49:39 GMT

There was a lot of back patting I did not see much debating.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Chris from Navarre, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:50:19 GMT

McCain won. I also think Huckabee had a very good night, and this will likely hurt Romney. Romney sounded like a broken record on national security issues - repeating everything McCain said. I also think Romney got stung twice on the Mormon question and the "are you buying this election" question.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

IdeasNotMoney — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:50:39 GMT

Only by breaking the iron triangle of big money, special interest lobbyists, and the legislation they buy, can sovereignty be restored to the American people!! Only John McCain can make this happen while persuing a conservative agenda!!!!!!!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Chris, Loomis, Ca — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:51:36 GMT

Huckabee clearly won. His answer on the fairtax won me over.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Chaunda,Indianapolis — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:52:00 GMT

No one won no one tryied to win. I do not praise the way the democrat candidates sniped but this complete opposite nobody say anything important let's all hold hands approach is just as ineffective and boring to boot.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Bull Lee, Inter, Zone — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:52:56 GMT

I don't see how Romney did well at all? He used this debate to go after the democrats. Much of what he said was what any of these candidates would say! He must have forgotten he was debating other republicans.
McCain looked worried when answering economic inqueries. He'd be better as someone's running mate.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

BryanT, Denver, CO — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:53:12 GMT

Hands down, ROMNEY has this one in the bag. McCain, did okay, but mumbled alot and didn't say much. Romney, on the other hand, took advantage of his time to display is qualifications and his ability to lead. I think Huckabee had a rough night, which I think will hurt him come Tuesday.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Charles, Silver Spring, MD — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:53:16 GMT

ROFL, you mean MSNBC admits it own bias against Paul when they do not even include him in the "debate" and I use that term lightly. That was the worst "debate" I have ever watched. It was more like a love fest questionnaire than any sort of debate. During the section where candidates are supposed to be asking each other questions, Russert got to talk more than Paul did. I was hoping one of them was going to ask Russert when did he start his campaign for president? This "debate" was a total waste of my time and Romney owes me my 90 minutes back.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Joshua Luke, Goose Creek, SC — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:55:07 GMT

I'd have to strongly disagree. There were many attacks on Romney tonight and he handled them with ease! He came out looking a lot better than the other candidates by far. McCain looked lost many times and he really harmed himself when Paul asked him about the fed. He didn't even know what Paul was talking about and floundered not even answering the question in the slightest.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

LJ Rowan Oak Ridge Tennessee — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:55:29 GMT

All CFR members have the same answer about the war. Ron Paul tells the truth!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

diligentdave - Clearfield, UT — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:56:01 GMT

Only McCain and Romney are uptrending on RealClearPolitics.com polls. And the money is being put on Romney, rather than McCain, which tells you which way those waging on this are now betting. The graph at RealClearPolitics.com on the FL GOP race show Romney's meteoric rise in less than a week. With five more days to go, if Romney can keep it rolling, he may very well roll over McCain, and take Florida's 57 delegates, and huge momentum going into Super Tuesday.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Bogey Balata, Chicago, IL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:56:02 GMT

I basically agree with Chuck's analysis.

Hey Joe Scarborough , I thought listening to you on Matthews show and then in the post debate analysis, you've moved from your man love crush on Willard Romney to actually wanting to dry hump him

Yes, he showed command of the economic issues, it's the only issue he really has command of. His idea of our foreign policy is to talk to lawyers and build another Guantanamo.

I see Willard is now pushing away from W. He's a bigger panderer than Hilary Clinton and bigger flip flopper than John Kerry.

Now Joe, re what about LIMITING SPENDING and pork barrel do you NOT understand?? who has consistently stood against those things? what is your BOOK about? (read it and liked it)
who has railed against those pork and corrupt interests all of his time in Congress?

what is the BASIS of economics?
how much you bring in and how much you spend. What has the Republican party been doing for the last 12 years? spending.

who has stood up against this crap? this abdication of the principles of Contract with America?

that would be John McCain.
So give the guy credit, even if you retain your man crush on Willard.

as the guy said, he'll take his country over his party each and every time.

Perhaps you should re-read the very book you wrote and do the same.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

tangie, Huntsville, AL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:56:26 GMT

I don't know why you say McCain is a front runner. According to the delegates; he's in third place and Mike Huckabee is one of the front runners with Mitt Romney.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

rick — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:58:57 GMT

To whom it may concern,

It is very obvious that MSNBC is partcipating in the nation wide media black out against candidate
Ron Paul. The national media is controlled by the CFR. The CFR is controlled by the centeral bank system {the fed.}. Ron Paul is a threat to the fed ,therefore the CFR orders the news stations that it owns to minimlize the coverage of congressman Paul. It is painfully obvious to all of us who are Ron Paul supporters that he is effectivly being blacked out by the major media in the United States.
It is absoulity shamefull that the major media ,has traded "freedom of the press" for "bought and paid for" by banks and corporations. Ron Paul is a serious contender in this election and those of us who know about him will spread the word. It's too bad that Americans cannot believe what our main source of information reports to us any more. It borders on treasonist.

Yours truly {Disgusted},

Richard C.Stevens

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Dan Chapman, Jacksonville, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:59:17 GMT

Just reinforces my distaste for Romney. Other than Hillary, he is my least favorite of all candidates. He went from saying whatever he needs to win to clamming up on the campaign funding issue. You want my vote? Tell me the truth! If you will not divulge your financial situation, I understand (that goes for you too, Bill/Hillary), I would hate that as well. Of course I am not running for the mightiest office on Earth! No more pandering, evasive liars...PLEASE!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Monica — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 03:59:51 GMT

I LOVED Romneys Bill Clinton comment!! So ironic to have the good Mormon alluding to the dirty things Bill Clinton did in the White HOuse.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Mark — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:00:11 GMT

Doesn't matter. I'm voting for John Edwards.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Brandon, Lake St Louis, MO — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:00:57 GMT

I completely disagree with your closing statement. McCain got called out by Ron Paul's question, and quite clearly had no idea what he was talking about when he answered. He mostly just jumbled a bunch of people's names together, probably in hopes that people watching wouldn't notice that he was clueless...

It was definately a good night for Romney...but then again you guys were kind of having a love affair with him. It pretty much seemed like you had the camera on him all night, how could it be a bad night for him?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Kyle Bolton, Glendale, AZ — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:01:40 GMT

It doesn't matter what your talking heads pushing your agenda for big business and a controlled police-state America think, I care what the American people think.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22830366/

So does Dr. Paul, and he'll never go away, and nor will his ideas. You can kill and silence a man, but ideas live forever. Dr. Pauls have lived for over 225 now.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Bill, Seattle — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:03:18 GMT

Romney was the clear winner and looked and sounded most presidential. Bring on the Clinton machine.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Benjamin Ledger, UFO, New Mexico — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:03:54 GMT

Giuliani and Huckabee need to drop out.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Scott, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:07:49 GMT

Chuck, you are simply stating that your network is PRO-ROMNEY PRO-McCAIN! You give all the airtime they want, ask them all the questions. The REAL REPUBLIC, not the fantasy Public Polls of your little samples that represent whoever you want to be on top, want RON PAUL! WE DO NOT WANT FLIP ROMNEY, McCAINT, PREACHABEE, GIRLYANI, OR ANY ONE ELSE! I am astonsided how Tim Russert claims to be such an American Journalist interested in politics but resorts to kissing the butt of a wealthy hack like Romney running for President. You media talking heads are nothing more than puppets. If you had a backbone or a set of brass ones, you would aks hard questions to expose these hacks running for office. Ron Paul is the only one WE THE PEOPLE want!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Terrence, Atlanta, Ga. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:08:27 GMT

Mike Huckabee once again shines as the only Republican candidate with a new idea, a new approach to help the United States economy. While the other candidates, including Mitt Romney, talk about the same old shell game, Mike Huckabee proposes the FairTax.

I don’t think the same old same old is what Republicans are looking for, and I know it is not what the country is looking for. I will vote for Mike Huckabee.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

everyday, Ventura, CA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:08:56 GMT

Mc Cain doesn't have a temper anymore? I guess it is all in his past of less than a year ago when he unloaded the F Bomb in Congress at another Senator who dared question his amnesty bill. See the article link from the washington post this past May 2007.

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/capitol-briefing/2007/05/mccain_cornyn_cursing_showdown.html

Tonight Tim Russert directly quoted John McCain in Michigan saying he was not an expert on the economy. Maybe he is too old to be President if he can't remember what he said in Michigan and forgot that he used the F word in the spring and couldn't see he wrote a Amnesty bill.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Tom, Flagstaff, AZ — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:09:38 GMT

Economics is clearly the issue at hand, and while all candidates had long winded answers that went no where; I was extremely impressed by the straight forward responses from Ron Paul.

He is the only one I felt presented the 2 key points to the economy questions. 1. Cause. 2. How do you fix it?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

g.eglesias'nepa~ — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:10:51 GMT

None of them won, They are all losers. When McCain said if a Democrat gets in all they will do is spend, spend. Well that only shows his ignorance. If that was true, "how come when Bill Clinton left office after an 8 year term, the BUDGET was balanced--AND HE HAD A SURPLUS. Ask Bush if his budget is balanced. Bush's deficit is so HUGE, "it will take nothing less than another Clinton to balanced it.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

F. T., Texas — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:10:56 GMT

Ron Paul - Hope for America!!!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Diane Familia, Killeen, Texas — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:10:59 GMT

The media can twist candidates words around! Do your homework America and research every candidates ideas, and don't depend on just the media. Go Huckabee!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Sadie Maie St. Louis — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:11:01 GMT

The American people won. They saw intelligent, dignified, and sincere candidates each make their case and have a mature and candid conversation with each other and all Americans.

Unlike the Democrats . . . .

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Robert Steenwyk, Grand Rapids, Michigan — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:13:34 GMT

"And then there's Paul; unlike other gadflys, he doesn't raise a stink when he doesn't get the same treatment as the frontrunners but he makes his points well."

I could not believe the disparity in time... for everyone! We are down to five major candidates now, why can't everyone get equal time?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Terry Radford — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:14:25 GMT

Republicans are fake, warmongers and will run up debt and the country into the ground.

Wake up people, it's time for change...Republicans will change ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

rick — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:15:13 GMT

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Joseph, Leitchfield, Kentucky — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:15:20 GMT

What really irks me, is how John McCain and Rudy Guiliani are constantly plagiarizing Mike Huckabee in their responses. Whether they talk about being good stewards of the earth or energy independence or something else. None of them were saying that stuff back a couple months ago.

Also, back in an October debate, every candidate said the economy was doing great, except for Mike Huckabee. He saw it coming.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Charles Henderson, Amelia, VA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:15:42 GMT

I believe Tim Russert and to some extent Brian did a very poor job of asking questions of the candidates. It would seem their aim was to introduce negatives versus finding the answers to the candidates thoughts and with few exceptions, Florida did not come to the questioners mind at all.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Paul Waclo, York, PA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:15:53 GMT

Ron Paul is the only one who answers with specific details. Just listen to how the others meander around in "we'll have to sit down and talk to the Dems." or "form a panel of experts" McLame is going to surround himself with his buddies to answer all the hard economic questions on the test for him.

Wake up listen to the Dr. before it's too late

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Kyle Smith, Asheville, NC — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:16:58 GMT

Ron Paul has a great message that never gets a chance to be heard. I felt that more airtime was unfairly given to Mitt Romney and John McCain, and that if MSNBC is going to broadcast this event as a debate, then they should let the candidates debate more. The moderaters were so concerned about response times, but Romney got questions asked to him 5-to-1 over Paul. Let the voters get a chance to hear everyones message.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Debra Craig, Moreno Valley, CA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:17:36 GMT

Wow! A compliment for Ron Paul? AMAZING!
Why does he "makes his points well?" Because they are based on common sense and the Constitution. Yet How sad that our media continues to ignore him, silencing the message that is best for our country. Case in point: None of the tv talking heads even mention him in the post-debate analysis. They should be ashamed of themselves for doing a huge disservice to our country by preventing voters from hearing the one candidate that truly has the country's best interest at heart. I am not a Rush Limbaugh fan, but if only there was someone gutsy enough to come out and support the only "conservative" running, then maybe Ron Paul could get the coverage he deserves and the the candidate our country needs to know about.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

WakeWashington, Fort Wayne, IN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:18:03 GMT

John "DoubleTalk" McCain foolishly tried to make Russert look like he was fabricating a quote for one of the debate questions

Or at 71, maybe it was just the senator's age getting to him when he denied it and said he didn't know where Russert got it.

Let me help. New York Times, Jan. 14, page 25.
The quote also appeared in a number of other publications, including the Seattle Post Intelligencer, Centre Daily Times, Chattanooga Times, and the Corpus Christi Caller-Times.

"The issue of economics is not something I've understood as well as I should," McCain said earlier this month, as though the subject wasn't that important. "I've got Greenspan's book."

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

chris, Phoenix, AZ — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:18:27 GMT

I think Romney was good tonight, but I do think that the other candidates took it easy on him. I liked that a network finally let us get a detailed look at the fair tax plan...that was a deeper explanation on they have allowed in all other debates combined, and I don't think I have missed a Repub debate, except for ESPANOL one. I like Huckabee, but I wish he would be a little more forceful. He needs to show he can be tougher. He needs to dial up the Alpha Dog in his personality a bit.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Ron Hagerman Vancouver — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:18:46 GMT

If this is the best the republicans can come up with, no wonder GWB was the flag bearer twice. 1 wants to buy the job, another is praying he will win, still another, even if not directly stating it, would love to scare you into voting for him. All appear to agree that whatever GWB said about going to war with Iraq it was worth it. It is so true that "you get the government you deserve" "Go ahead, Make my Day" vote for one of these boys and you'll get another 4 years of GWB

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Somer Brown, State College, PA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:19:15 GMT

Mike Huckabee clearly won. Romney sounded like he always does, overly rehearsed and fake. Giuliani didn't step up when he needed to. McCain didn't even try, and Ron Paul wasn't even on tv long enough to make a legitimate arguement. Huckabee was honest, clear, and concise in his answers... I think I like this guy.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Alan, Las Vegas, NV — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:19:35 GMT

Any of these Republicans are going to lose BIG TIME against any of the 3 remaining democrats. We don't want Bush 3 and all the republicans (except Ron Paul) just spew the same old tired and hollow logic of Bush. Vote Republican and you get a 5 trillion dollar war, no healthcare, no border improvement, no energy independence, no green initiatives and a prolonged broken economy.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Rachel Taylor Tulsa, OK — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:19:51 GMT

WHY ISN'T ANYONE TALKING TO OR ABOUT DR. RON PAUL? WHY ISN'T ANYONE LETTING HIM TALK? HE IS IN THE SAME ROOM!

Sheep.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

R. Smith, Fort Myers, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:20:05 GMT

I LOVED Mike Huckabee's answers about the fair tax and his faith! He's totally won me over. By the way, why did Romney and McCain get twice the questions/air time as Huckabee and Paul? Romney needs to learn when to stop talking. How many times did they have to tell him that he had gone over the time?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Christopher Cargill Laguna Beach, California — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:20:09 GMT

Take note, Mitt did an outstanding job nailing points especially on the Reagan question regarding social security. I think more should be said of Mitt's accomplishments. A side note, I think Ron Paul might surprise a lot of people. I think Guillani will drop out of the race after Florida's primary. My hats off to Mitt Romney and Ron Paul.......McCain who?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

BurningMan, NV — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:22:30 GMT

Romney looks, acts and sounds like the President of the United States. Mitt is it!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Heidi, Portland ME — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:22:38 GMT

What a difference between the Dems and Reps! A competent set of men discussing the issues in a civilized manner vs. two (three if you count Bill) totally out of control and whacked out Democrats screaming at each other.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Robert Schmidt, Clovis, CA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:24:29 GMT

Mitt can talk a good talk but seriously...he says:
"look at my economic record"

I really don't think it stacks up:

"Our analysis reveals a weak comparative economic performance of the state over the Romney years, one of the worst in the country," the researchers wrote in the Boston Globe. Specifically, they found:

* As U.S. real output grew 13 percent between 2002 and 2006, Massachusetts trailed at 9 percent.

* Manufacturing employment fell 7 percent nationwide those years, but sank 14 percent under Romney, placing Massachusetts 48th among the states.

* Between fall 2003 and autumn 2006, U.S. job growth averaged 5.4 percent, nearly three times Massachusetts' anemic 1.9 percent pace.

* While 8 million Americans over age 16 found work between 2002 and 2006, the number of employed Massachusetts residents actually declined by 8,500 during those years.

http://www.spectator.org/dsp_article.asp?art_id=12568

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Matthew Kowalski, St. Paul, MN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:25:42 GMT

Ron Paul clearly won tonight once again...the only pro-freedom, pro-peace candidate on that state.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Bogey Balata — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:25:48 GMT

btw.. did anyone notice how this supposedly "Republican" audience, completely and totally agreed with the the premise (by their applause) that they did NOT think the Iraqi War has been worth the loss in blood and treasure?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

CECIL WILCOX — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:26:05 GMT

I HAVE WATCHED CHRIS AND JOE ON MSNBC FOR A LONG TIME,I WAS SORRY WHEN JOE SWITCHED TP A.M.I ALWAYS LOOKED FORWARD TO THIER SHOW UNTIL KNOW,I DIDN!T KNOW THAT THEY WERE SO BIASED

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Tim Moses, Fort Lauderdale, Florida — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:26:32 GMT

Huckabee is #1, but Romney looked good too. McCain = independant (Thus he should run as one). Guliani = Social Liberal; Ron Paul = Crazy Man

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Mischke, Nichols, New York — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:43:35 GMT

Did anyone else hear what Romney said about gun ownership?

I would like to see a direct quote.

A transcript doesn't seem to be available yet.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Suzanne, Houston, TX — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:48:28 GMT

MSNBC must address the very obvious "whisper" about cutting taxes during Romney's question about Reagan and Social Security question. Americans are not deaf - we want to know. Did Romney wear a earbud and get "help" from his team? He clearly had help on this question. This is only fair and acceptable if every candidate has the same option and uses it. In which case - why even have a debate?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

chuck — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:50:53 GMT

I love reading this stuff by Ron Paul supporters about how mistreated he is and then quotes like the one from Scott from Phoenix that say "the real republic, not the fantasy public polls of your little samples...want Ron Paul." Have you guys been paying attention at all? Paul finished 2nd in Nevada but 5th or 6th in every other state. The people of Iowa, Nevada, Michigan, S. Carolina and even New Hampshire rejected Ron Paul. Are they not part of the "real republic?"

I'm not all that interested in the Republican debate except to the extent that, should Hillary be the Democratic nominee, I want McCain to win on the Republican side. The others won't beat Hillary but McCain will. As a relatively neutral observer, it was clear to me that Romney won this debate. It was his best yet. He's the GOP's version of John Kerry (flip-flops) and Hillary (poll-driven decision making) but he was better in this debate than the others. Hillary will chew him to shreds!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Craig Moore, Columbus, IN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:57:45 GMT

This debate was terrible! I thought it was the Romney show. I wish one of the other candidates would have something. NBC looked in the tank for Romney giving him twice the air time. Brian Williams and Tim Russert were about as exciting as dry toast! This was the worst debate by far.
Huckabee won with timited air time.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Casey, NY, NY — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:59:19 GMT

These are the times for speaking in the "debate"

Ridiculous!!!!
Guiliani gets DOUBLE the speaking time of Dr. Paul, when Dr. Paul has beat him (and doubled him in a couple) of primaries. There is no other explanation, especially when the post "debate" analysis doesn't even mention him, other then an intentional disenfranchisement.

Total Times

Romney: 21:11, during 13 times

McCain: 16:00, during 13 times

Giuliani: 13:50, during 11 times

Huckabee: 12:11, during nine times

Paul: 6:31, during six times

LET THE VOTERS HEAR THE CANDIDATES EQUALLY!!
Then we can decide for ourselves.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Mike, St Louis, MO — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:03:25 GMT

If you run the last three Republican debates side by side, you will see that McCain and Romney say the same boring message.. (they get flustered when pushed on their record). Huckabee has continually stated clear messages on Taxes, our economy and many others. If he only had enough finances to get his message out to more people you would see that none of these candidates could touch him. Go Mike..

Grass roots America.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

JB,Lake Placid, Fl — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:04:06 GMT

Hello All,

Media coverage was once again unfair by the amount of questions and even the standing placement of the candidates. The personalities shined through anyway, despite the lopsided coverage.

Romney showed his millions bought him the media and majority of the questions. He slithered out of the money question, said how "he wasnt concerned with voters, just these guys up on the stage" and repeated other candidates ideas as his own!( China idea of Huckabee's).

MCCain showed again that he is ready for any challenge. But, again the media gave him and Romney more stage time. I was surprised that Mccain chose to ask Huckabee the fairtax question. And I suppose I am happy he did, It gave Huckabee the opportunity to discuss it. It showed that Governor Huckabee has mastered his Fairtax idea. In just 90 seconds, I felt I understood how our IRS is broken, and how his plan will work for the average guy,the wealthy, corporations, the elderly, ect.. He also explained how keeping our trillions of dollars off-shore, trying to hide from the IRS, would help our economy if the money were brought home. Wow.. in 90 seconds!!

Ron Paul was honest and refreshing. It's a shame that the media doesnt give him or Huckabee more questions and they dismiss Paul as a crackpot..laughing at him.
I'm not going to vote for Paul, I just think that he is being treated unfairly and has some good ideas.

In the end, I'm voting for Governor Huckabee next tuesday here in Florida. I think his ideas are awesome, he is a true-Christian, He handles the tough questions with ease, he is moving forward just on ideas..not his money! He is classy and presidential..Vote Huckabee on Tuesday!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Peter, Concord, NH — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:04:49 GMT

Both before and after the debate, Joe Scarborough acted like a paid staffer for Romney. If I want biased i"ll watch FOX. I expect more from MSNBC.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jesse Ting — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:05:14 GMT

I am outraged that the journalist and reports are leaving Ron Paul out!! WHY WHY WHY???
The SMS text poll showed him to be the winner, or in par with Mitt Romney - why wasn't that reported??
Dr Paul asked McCain a question on the Economic situation of America - he didn't have an answer - doesn't Mr President supposed to have some plan and clue as to how to address an issues instead of saying he will depend on his advisors... Look at BUSH and what his advisors are advising him.
You are all guilty in trying to influence the public vote - it is so UNFAIR. I am so outraged, disgusted and deeply disappoiunted.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Gloria The great, athens Ohio — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:05:21 GMT

I would like to know WHY Dr. Ron Paul doesn't get the same media coverage as the other frontrunners. People realize that this is happening and it just makes the media look like liars. I thought you were suppose to report all news not just news that makes your company get more money from big government. Yeah I am sure you wont put this up on your webpage just like you wont report the real news half the time. Just what you want people to believe weather it is true or not.
Shame on you all. Things will change with or without you.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jimmy Weiss, Cathedral City, Calif. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:06:00 GMT

Romney took this debate by simply sticking to his Washington outsider message,showing clear economic strength and reminding people what he did for the state of Mass. McCain will pay for pretending not to remember his own statement about his economic weakness. I think Romney can take on the Clintons!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

gary harper willseyville,N.Y. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:11:29 GMT

well no matter who won the american people lost.I for one don't need msnbc to tell me who to vote for anymore than I need fox news to tell me who to vote for.This was the most biased debate so far.I thought Russert was a real newsman.Turns out he's just a hack like the rest.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Patti Hodges Menifee, CA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:11:50 GMT

Thanks for letting us get another look at the candidates. I aprreciated the civil conversation about the issues. My favorite overall is Mike Huckabee. He seems to want the nomination in order to serve our country, not win an olympic gold.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Steve A Jonesboro IN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:11:53 GMT

Mccain and pork barrel spending. I wonder how much it costs the American taxpayers for his photo op trips to Iraq.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

over the hill gal, st. louis, mo — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:12:32 GMT

Boring, boring, boring. I much prefer the Dems. They must think Clinton will be the nominee to constantly go after her. They will all start pulling a Chris Matthews, he knows he is being watched for his attacks of Hillary, so now he is going after Bill. They will do the same, but I don't think they or Chris know what they are up against.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Al, KS — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:13:38 GMT

Those egg shells they were walking on are what's left of the Humpty-Dupty Bush administration. Pro-life, pro-gun, pro-war, pro-tax cuts. How are they any different? None of these king's men can put it together again. While McCain was best at running away, even he did not run away from Bush, he ran away from congressional spending.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Dan, Upstate Liberal — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:18:16 GMT

I can't believe I'm saying this but Mitt was very strong last night and in command of the economic issues debated for the first 20 minutes.
McCain was very general with his answers even when he was asked to be specific. And the whole "raise the white flag of surrender" is offensive to people who do not agree on spending any more of our money and lives on continuing a mistake.
Giuliani just cost himself any hope of winning the nomination with that performance. And did anyone see the very weird face he makes when the camera went to wide shots? MSNBC mercifully avoided that particuler shot as the debate progressed.
Huckabee was very flat. He had a great answer regarding the stimulus package but otherwise a forgettable performance.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Mike Toth Stamford CT — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:19:28 GMT

What a shame. The best man for the job and they give him so little time to speak. I thought MSNBC would give Ron Paul a chance to get his message out, but I was wrong. He is far above the rest when it comes to realistic solution to the problems at hand with this country. When it came to the Q&A part no one asked Ron a question, and McCain had no clue on how to answer Ron's question. If they can't make these debates a true way for the voters to get an idea what ALL the candidates have to offer, and not just the ones they think are viable, don't have them at all. What does Ron Paul have to do to get respect? When will people see the others are just saying what they think the voters want to hear instead of the truth, which is all Ron Paul speaks?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

DE, NYC — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:21:16 GMT

Bogey Balata,

Yes it was noticed!!! We aren't all lambs to the slaughter!!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

C.Shaw, Ft.Myers, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:22:20 GMT

PAUL, ROMNEY and then GUILIANI. I am leaning more towards the Democratic Party because I agree with more of their views than the Republicans but I keep an open mind. I want someone (regardless of party affiliation) who will do the best job for our nation. McCain comes across as arrogant and stumbled all over himself with Paul's economic question. We can't have a President who doesn't understand our financial system or have an intelligent opinion on such matters. Huckabee was more of a fly on the wall. I wish there was more media coverage of Paul because I think he has really great ideas but no one knows about them.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jeremiah Ellison, Grand Island NE — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:22:28 GMT

If you look at the time each candidate was given, you might find a correlation between who wins and who was given the most time.

Romney was handed this debate. Paul didn't have a chance.

When looking good matters, the media knows how to make a guy look good. Unfortunately, looking good is more important than having solid principles, reputation and character.

So let's elect the best looking, smoothest talking guy we can find, mkay? That's what the media wants. And that's what you're getting.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Suzy Sturm — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:26:26 GMT

We would all do well to remember that RON PAUL has no one he is indebted to...he continues to raise millions from individuals who ask nothing in return. And his voting record is consistent enough to prove that he is not telling us what we want to hear just to get in office. You know exactly what Ron Paul will do once he is office. He is a fiscal conservative and as soon as this economy starts biting the dust all the other "issues" will fall by the wayside.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jeremiah Ellison, Grand Island, NE — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:27:36 GMT

Huckabee plagiarizing Ron Paul disgusts me. The economy has been one of Paul's key issues from the get-go.

From the Republican debate, October 9 in Dearborn, Michigan.

Paul: Today this country is in the middle of a recession for a lot of people. Michigan knows about it. Poor people know about it. The middle class knows about it. Wall Street doesn't know about it. Washington, D.C., doesn't know about it. But it's because of the monetary system and the excessive spending. As long as we live beyond our means, we are destined to live beneath our means.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Gene Baker — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:29:37 GMT

MSNBC needs to a fact check on comparing the Bush years to Clinton on the economy. Bush had lower interest rates, lower unemployment, lower inflation, the highest home ownership by blacks and whites and seven years of improving economy in spite of the war and several natural disasters.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

B Jones Wisconsin — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:31:38 GMT

on the call in poll who won Romney 41% Paul 40% aren't you listening? We are....
Ron Paul 08

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Freeman Richmond Virginia — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:40:50 GMT

How come Ron Paul wins the debate last night,according
to the MSNBC call in poll, (this will only let you vote one time from one phone number)and is almost compleatly left out from any main stream meadia coverage??????

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Reality Check — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:46:39 GMT

Ron Paul sure does have a lot of internet trolls on his side. Too bad they don't crawl out from the blogosphere and actually vote! Give it up, he is finished. This is now a two man race and Reps need to get serious about this primary.

I thought Romney did a good job of showing he knows the issues. Furthermore, he has poise and charisma, something we need in a president in motivating the Aemerican people while also helping to garner international support.

McCain is just a dose of the same old inside the beltway BS. He has no understanding of the economy and didn't even make an impression on his knowledge of foreign policy. Also, I was really bothered by his flat out lie about what he said earlier regarding his knowledge of the economy. If he can make a blunder like that, who knows what he will do in the White House!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

MG, St. Louis, Mo. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:46:48 GMT

One thing is clear from the debate and that is Hillary is the one thing that unites the Republican party. She is fresh meat for them and the Democrats should take note and think twice about making her the nominee. This is the most polorizing person in politics so why would the Dems annoint her when the thing this country needs most is to be united. If you think the Clintons are playing divisive ball now within their own party just wait till they get to the Superbowl. These bad and selfish people have brought race into the Dem. race to win....but their, by their own annointing, are not racist. The Democrats desirve everything they get if they make her their candidate.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Dee, Plano, TX — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:47:59 GMT

John McCain & company, your "tax and spend" catch-phrase is now obsolete.Do you think we are stupid ? Republicans have big government, they want to put Democracy every place in the world, bigger military, bigger investment in the military industrial complex; They want to go and solve every problem in every dictatorship in the world. That's bigger government. That's more government involvement. That's big tax payer spending. And that's what the Republicans have wanted to do.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

John, Holly Springs, NC — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:54:30 GMT

Who cares what the CFR has to say? Vote Ron Paul!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

John, NY — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:57:04 GMT

I think the biggest LOSER is Tim Russert and the dummiest question was to have Romney to answer match-up with THE BOTH CLINTONS as P/VP. I think presidential debate is serious business. The questions like those unrealistically hypotheticals shall not be asked. Clinton has publically denied any possibility that Bill will be a running mate. It is illegimate anyway. So the question will be illegimate. It is dismal to me that TIM was emphasizing that BILL to be running mate of Hillary when he was asking. I can read that there exists some kind of hate inside Tim's abdomen or he "Calculated" to promote Romney to be front-runner. The question has the same stupidness as if Tim asks that "If you nominated, will you consider my wife to be your running mate?". It just nonsense. Media shall focus on candidates' leadership, capability, knowledge, and standing on issues. These are important things to help voters to make up their minds for their presidential candidate.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

darrin Swanson — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:58:02 GMT

Republicans are in a tail spin, Joe S. should not have been covering this debate, his bias is as bad as Rush's. The only!!!! chance the republicans have of beating Hilary is to choose Mccain. If the base snubs him again they will be throwing in the towel. I am one of many male democrats who voted for Reagan and will not vote for Hilary against Mccain. If it ends up being Mit, I and many others will pull the trigger for Hilary. Even though it will hurt. I am also of the belief that one party in control of all 3 branches does not work. Wake up and elect someone who has a chance of uniting the country! The Republican party will survive and may even expand. Duh!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Freeman Richmond Virginia — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:58:28 GMT

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Ryan — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:00:18 GMT

What is the story with the whisper of "he raised taxes" occuring when Russert asks Romney if he will do what Reagan did to save social security? Where did that come from?

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

jhon, michigan — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:06:35 GMT

What a shame our world media is...Censoring Dr. Paul the way corporate media does should be illegal. We need to wake up and stop eating the lies.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

John, Elizabeth City, NC — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:07:09 GMT

The National Enquirer is looking more and more credible next to MSNBC.

It's obvious that the media doesn't represent democracy. You ( MSNBC ) may look down on our intelligence as viewers. Ratings must not be as important as controlling the debate, as if it's a hour and a half long infomercial supporting your corporate agenda.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

April, Glenolden, PA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:08:42 GMT

What I don't understand is when Huckabee sites everything that Ron Paul has been saying the whole time, he gets credit. Take a look at the real record and then make a decision. Make sure you do our country a real service and not injustice. Vote Ron Paul! He is the only true conservative GOP candidate in the race. I just love the way when every candidate was asked if it was worth the blood shed that they all said yes; and guess who said no ~ Ron Paul!!! Just think if we didn't go to war, you and I would have our neighbors still alive standing next to us. But instead we have a country divided and falling fast. Stop the nonsense and BELIEVE!!!

The real "change" will come with Dr. Ron Paul.

Take a look SHEEP!!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

YELLOW DOG DEM.--SGM LOWELL AR, — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:09:04 GMT

WHAT DEBATE?
LAST NIGHT WAS THE MOST BORING CHAT I HAVE HEARD YET.
THEY DEBATED NOTHING, EXCEPT FOR RON PAUL AND BEFORE YOU GET THE IDEA THAT I AM A R.P. SUPPORTER, LET ME ASSURE YOU , I AM NOT. IN FACT I THINK IF ANY ONE LISTENS TO HIS INTIRE PLAN THEY WILL BE JUST AS TURNED OFF AS I AM. HIS IDEAS ARE - CRAXY.
I LIVE IN ARKANSAS AND GOV. BEEBE IS TRYING TO START GETTING RID OF SOME OF THE GROCERERY TAXES IMPOSED BY HUCKABEE. MOST OF THE THINGS THAT HAVE CAUSED THE SCHOOLS TO IMPROVE WERE PUT IN PLACE BY THE CLINTONS. ESPECIALLY FOR SPECIAL ED. STUDENTS.
MY GRANDSON DOESN'T LIKE HUCK. BECAUSE OF HIM DOING AWAY WITH RECESS. THE SCHOOLS DON'T HAVE MUCH TIME FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES. THEY RARELY GET ANY FRESH AIR.-----AND, HIS JOKES GET A LITTLE OLD AFTER A WHILE.
McCAIN OBVIOUSLY IS THE ONE TO KEEP THE WAR GOING FOREVER, EVEN THO, HE SEEMS MORE HONEST THAN ROMNEY.
HE REALLY WILL SAY ANYTHING, AND DOES. I WISH WE HAD HAD THE CLINTONS IN THE WHITEHOUSE THE LAST 7 YEARS. DOES ANY ONE BELIEVE WE WOULD BE IN THE MESS THAT WE ARE IN NOW? A WAR WITHOUT END AND THE ECONOMY GOING DOWN THE TOILET.
THE CLINTON YEARS WERE PRETTY DARN GOOD INSPITE OF THE REPUBLICANS PLAYING THEIR EVIL GAMES
WHAT IN THE WORLD DID JUILIANI DO ON 9-11 THAT WAS SO HEROIC? IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT SOME OF THE SUGGESTIONS TO MAKE THE CITY SAFER WERE NOT PUT IN PLACE, THAT MAY HAVE SAVED LIVES ON THAT DREADFUL
DAY. REMEMBER, IT WAS HILLARY WHO FIRST WARNED THE PEOPLE WORKING AT GROUNG ZERO, THAT THE AIR THEY WERE BREATHING WAS PROBABLY DANGEROUS TO THEIR HEALTH AS THE BUSH ADMININTRATION CLAIMED IT WAS PERFECTLY SAFE. AND OF COURSE SHE WAS RIGHT.
LAST NIGHTS DEBATE LULLED ME TO SLEEP AS MOST OF THE REPUBLICAN DEBATES DO. WE USUALLY COUNT THE TIMES RONALD REAGANS NAME IS INVOKED. SEEMS LIKE THEY FEEL LIKE THE ONE WHO SAYS IT THE MOST WILL WIN. LAST NIGHT IT WAS HILLARY. SEEMS TO ME LIKE THEY ARE SCARED TO DEATH TO RUN ANYONE OF THEIR CANDIDATES AGAINST HER. I DON'T THINK SHE NEEDS BILL TO MAKE UP HER MIND, SHE'S QUITE UP TO PAR ON ANY SUBJECT.
HILLARY IS WAY ABOVE ALL THE REST IN ANY SUBJECT YOU CAN THROW AT HER.
I WOULD ALSO LIKE TO SAY THAT I THOUGHT THE QUESTIONING WAS VERY POOR BY THE MODERATORS.
THE CNN DEM. DEBATE WAS FAR MORE INTERESTING.
MSNBC NEEDS TO BROADEN THEIR SCOPE. HOW LONG CAN THEY KEEP MAKING PRESIDENT CLINTON THE NEWS EVERYDAY
ANY OF THE THREE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES WOULD BE A GREAT CHANGE FOR AMERICA, AFTER THE BUNCH OF THUGS WE HAVE HAD FOR THIS LAST TWO TERMS.
MY CHOICE CLEARLY IS ---HILLARY!!!!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Tom Newton, Orlando, Florida — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:11:18 GMT

Nice job of MSNBC to try and snub Ron Paul by not allowing him nearly the face time all the other candidates got. Ron Paul is the only Republican that is really for our best interest. The media isn't.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Mesa Arizona — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:11:27 GMT

I have lived in Arizona for over 30 years. I have been heavily involved in Arizona politics over the years including working with McCain at times and running for office myself. I hope the public in Florida has seen what a manipulative individual he is. Believe me he will say anything that he thinks will get him this election. Including lies like he told last night about his economic IQ. By the way there are few state polititians who even like him personnally as well as politically. He truly has lived up to his nickname here as McNasty.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

John, New York — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:12:09 GMT

It was such unfairness to Paul who only got half of the questions asked:
Romney: 21:11, during 13 times
McCain: 16:00, during 13 times
Giuliani: 13:50, during 11 times
Huckabee: 12:11, during nine times
Paul

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Anna, Iowa — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:22:10 GMT

Romney shined and showed a lot of wit!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Bob Brereton Eatontown New Jersey — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:25:39 GMT

The only candidate that makes sense and is being censored is RON PAUL.
Only one with a plan fiscally and on foriegn policy.
And my biggest concern (our borders). He wants them shut and no more anchor babies.

GORON PAUL

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

erik craighead — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:52:22 GMT

90 minute debate... Ron Paul gets under 5 minutes of air time!!!??? Rudy, in dead last over 20 minutes. Sweet, thanks NBC! Your about as fair and balanced as FOX!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

neil hammer, alamosa, colorado — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:53:58 GMT

Anyone who honestly looks at the issues instead of personalties...Mitt Romney was the clear winner. Paul is not realistic. He would allow the enemy to cross our border before he did anything. I am tired of the religious questions (who else gets asked about their religion) and the money questions. Mitt Romney made his fortune the honest way, with hard work. If he wants to spend it on his campaign, that should not matter.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

PC Salt Lake City, Ut — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 15:54:11 GMT

Senator Clinton was the clear winner, thanks to Russert and the Clinton obbsessed Matthews. I love it, the more the Clinton haters at MSNBC bash Hillary, the better she does in the elections. Keep up the good work.
On a more serious note, could last nights debate have been any more predictable or duller? With the exception of Ron Paul, The rest of the bunch came across as Bush light. Give me the fireworks of a Clinton/Obama/Edwards debate anyday.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jackson — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:00:45 GMT

As dulla debate as it was, what struck me was just how much more intelligent all teh candidates sounded compared to their Democrat counterparts. The substance of the talking points was far deeper. It's like comparing adults to childrten....and I'm an independent who has watched every major debate on both sides.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Al Halligan — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:01:43 GMT

I know women only vote for the cutest candidate but John McCain is the best man for the job. Go back to washing dishes ladies

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Sane in UT — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:05:39 GMT

Do your homework Ron Paul folks. There is no conspiracy. If you win state primaries you become a front runner. Winners always get more debate time. If he can appeal to enough voters to win delegates the country will take him seriously. So far he mostly draws in the lunatic fringe, frigidity hand wringers who see conspiracy everywhere.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Peter, Washington DC — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:23:08 GMT

Why is my blog not being posted? Hello MSNBC???

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jeff, Sheboygan, WI — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:26:28 GMT

Ron Paul had the most comprehensive answers than anyone on stage....when he was allowed to speak, that is. Huck's Fair Tax idea...to make that work, wouldn't there have to be a sales tax of something on the order of 30%? See, that's a problem. At least Paul has a plan to eliminate the income tax altogether without having to make us pay out more somewhere else. So Huck's out. McCain got schooled by Paul when Paul asked his economic question...very revealing moment. McCain: out. Romney is pretty much constantly pandering to the public with his cookie-cutter rhetoric. He doesn't have nearly the substance to make a great President. Mitt: out. Then there's Guiliani. Honestly, there are moments when he does speak intelligently. But, man, he's way too arrogant when it comes to foriegn policy. Between him and McCain, I don't know who would piss the world off more with poor policy decisions. And right now, that's the last thing we need. So Rudy's out. That leaves Paul. The man KNOWS his economics. Not only has he written books on the subject, he has served on the House Financial Services Committee, the International Relations committee, and the Joint Economic Committee. On the Financial Services Committee, Rep. Paul serves as the vice-chairman of the Oversight and Investigations subcommittee. Yeah, Paul gets my vote.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

PC Salt Lake City, Ut — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 16:41:19 GMT

Jackson. What substance? I heard only the same old same old.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Chris, Boca Raton,FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:09:26 GMT

Why is it that Ron Paul gets the least time to speak?? Something doesnt seem right here.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jeffrey, Orlando, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:11:35 GMT

The fact that programs like this are peddled as a "Debate" and are used to "help" steer the public's vote ensures me that America's day will soon pass.

I would say to be ashamed of yourself, but think it would fall on deaf ears.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

GS Carol Stream, IL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:13:16 GMT

How about instead of wasting your time with insignificant rhetoric and name calling, we did a little math. (No not that.) On the Democratic side, Michigan is not included since Hillary was the only one running there. Numbers don’t lie, it’s clear to see that Romney is the in the lead with the most total votes, and once he wins Florida, the others will be scrambling at best while his campaign runs on auto pilot. This tells us that the majority of Americans are for Romney. After all it’s all about the votes, as it should be.

Total votes as of 1-25 from national overview page.

Romney 465,796
McCain 367,197
Huckabee 210,924
Paul 90,641
Giuliani 50,108

Clinton 118,343
Obama 110,485
Edwards 49,821

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Jordan Mallory, Belle Fouche, South Dakota — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:24:56 GMT

Congressman Ron Paul is and never was considered a front runner (why not?)... that doesn't mean he never will be. He is the only candidate worth voting for in the GOP and the only REAL candidate of CHANGE (take that Democrats).

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Duane Becker Elk, Washington — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:28:53 GMT

All of the candidates should be treated equal. Seems to me that Ron Paul did not receive a fair share of the questions asked by Brian and Tim. Was this because Paul is polling in single digits? Or is there another reason???
Funny thing is that I'm not even a Republican, just a political junkie who has followed every national election since 1968. NBC has been my choice for news since the Apollo moon landings back in the 60's. I like Brian Williams and Russert is the best. But this did not come across to me as a fair debate.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

N. McBeth, Jefferson City, MO — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:42:17 GMT

MSNBC just proved they are "bought and paid for" like all the other channels. You must really take the public for idiots. Give Mitt Romney over three times more air time than Ron Paul and then declare him the winner of the debate. Heck, Rudy had the second lowest amount of air time and it was still twice as much as Ron Paul! I personally could not accept a paycheck and be able to sleep at night broadcasting political news or debates in the fashion it was done last night. If you people are so good at analyzing politics please explain the results of the text message poll and the online poll.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

JB — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:42:23 GMT

Even though I am a Ron Paul fan, fair "time" should be given to ALL cacndidates in the debate. If I were a Romney or Mccain fan, I would be saying the same.

It is apparent to many people that the media is no giving equal time to all the candidates.

I happen to like Huckabee too and I thought he didn't get much time last night eiher.

I am quite ashamed (as an American) that we allow this type of BIAS to occur within our nation...

Too bad for all of us - The news media and the interviewers shouldn't even waste people's time if they can't create a level ground for ALL the candidates to speak on.

SHAME ON YOU MSNBC, FOX, CNN, and all the other MAJOR media outlets...

I hope our Good Lord puts some sense into the heads of all of the American people (including me)...WE SHOULD ALL SPEAK OUT AGAINST THE BIAS, NO MATTER "WHO" YOU ARE VOTING FOR - FAIR SHOULD BE FAIR FOR ALL - NUFF SAID!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

MiddleGroundModerate, FL — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:43:13 GMT

Russert leans to the left and the questions reflected that. However, the clear winner was still Romney. He looked presidential all the way through. McCain actually started slamming the Republican Party at one point proving he cannot carry the loyal party supporter. McCain is just another Democrat but he won’t get there party nomination or the Republicans. The press ignores Romney because he is the one Republican the Democrats are scared of. They want McCain to get the nomination so a Democrat will be in the Whitehouse no matter which party wins.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Mark Upstate New York — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 17:54:22 GMT

I don't understand why the Republicans don't listen to Ron Paul. He is by far the only candidate they have that can beat King Hillary and Queen Bill. If he is nominated he'll get the Republican hardliners,he'll get the independents and he'll get those dems that aren't thrilled with the idea of the Clintons nor the youth and lack of job trainig Obama has should it be him representing the Dems. It's a no brainer if you want a republican to stay in office.Who's whispering in Romneys ear his offensive coordinator? Mc cain economics " there was one???" Rudy Rudy Rudy to bad you didn't play football for Notre Dame. Huckabee Shuckabee doodlee doo. Man it's your choice but you really should give Dr. Paul a listen. Awe what do I know I'm just a democrat. Good Luck.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Bryce M, Provo, UT — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 18:15:00 GMT

Ron Paul trolls can't spell. They also can't give a logical explanation as to why Ron Paul is never going to be the candidate. The reality is that Ron Paul is NOT Presidential. He has good ideas, good understanding, but he sounds like an incompetent, whiny man when he talks.

Please understand that time is given based upon their standings in the polls, as it should be. Additionally, none of the candidates asked Ron a question, but Romney got asked 2 questions, one by your boy Ron. Ron Paul is in last place in Florida. I, frankly, am pleased I didn't have to listen to his whiny voice more than 7 mins, that would have been a waste of time...for everyone. Get a grip on reality!!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Shtuey — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 18:20:25 GMT

These debates are becoming tedious and boring. The questions being asked are mostly fluff, and the candidates either end up bickering or posturing while not really answering the questions. And the candidates who aren't out front get marginalized, or aren't allowed to debate. It's time the debates employed a new format. I propose the following:

The debate will have two parts. In part one the candidates will take the stage dressed either as a character from Shakespeare, Mother Goose, or the Superfriends. They must give all their answers in character using iambic pentameter and rhyme where pertinant.

In part two the candidates will dress in leiderhosen and sing "I'm a Little Teapot" like Henry Kissinger for 45 minutes.

The debate moderators will dress as one of the seven stranded castaways.

I say if we're gonna get screwed again we may as well have a laugh.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Johan Boghansen, MN — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 18:23:34 GMT

People will say that Romney evaded discussing his campaign funding. But in my opinion it is positive that he believes in himself enough to put his money where his mouth is. Obviously he has a fortune because he is successful. If he gets to Washington he will not owe any special interest groups because they funded his campaign.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Keith, California — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:32:00 GMT

All you "Fair" tax enthusiasts out there who are so in love with a national sales tax and Mr. Financial Wizard Mike Huckabee - just think how much you'd have to cough up for tax on the purchase of a home. How does that thought go down? Some experts are saying a national sales tax would have to be closer to 34-38% to be revenue neutral.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

AJ — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:38:36 GMT

This election should be about: the ECONOMY and LEADERSHIP ABILITY. Who is best qualified to LEAD this country? Romney's experience and intelligence are clear. He is a no-nonsense Executive leader best qualified for the Executive branch. His character is above reproach. No one is perfect, but this man is the best qualified among any of the candidates--especially when contrasted with the ego-tripping Clintons. How can you knock Romney for spending his own money--rather than using taxpayer funds? How can you knock a man who has proven to be a great father, faithful husband, phenomenal business executive and effective Governor. HEY AMERICA: NONE of the other candidates have accomplished all of that! Romney has the best grasp of the economy and how to solve complex problems. Look at his track record. If you are too biased, narrow-minded or bigoted to vote for him because of his professional style or Christian faith (yes Mormons are Christians in spite of all the ignorant backwoods slander to the contrary)-- then you are not a reasonable, thinking voter. I don't know if he will win--but I'll keep hoping there are enough smart American voters to judge clearly. There is a lot at stake this time around. This election has certainly shown that America has a long way to go in overcoming religious prejudice. We don't need an onery old war-horse. We don't need a preachy huckster. We don't need a New York prosecutor. We don't need a bizarre libertarian eccentric. We need a strong, moral and intelligent executive leader who can understand the complexities of the global economy and how resolve the problems this nation is facing. Clearly, Romney is the best qualified of any of the candidates in either party.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Kay — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:40:59 GMT

Mitt Romney is clearly the smartest and best candidate. He is a true conservative that understands the economy. He is a Washington outsider and hasn't made any backroom deals - so he doesn't owe anyone. Mitt Romney is the best choice and has my vote. VOTE MITT ROMNEY!

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

laura elwin, Sammamish WA — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 20:01:33 GMT

The media knows that the republicans are scared breathless of Hillary Clinton and because of that I think they are giving Obama a pass by not asking him the tough questions. They immediately question Hillary on attack against her...she gives a detailed honest answer back, but they don't even ask Obama.
Why haven't we seen Obama on camera answering about his real estate deal with Rezko? He admits it was a "mistake".....well how sweet of him. The Clinton's were investigated to the bottom of their dresser drawers and yet no one can even ask Obama about his "deals". I think the media wants ratings and are playing the race card 100%. Hillary Clinton tries to talk issues, and Obama keeps attacking. Of course she should defend herself. Obama seems to turn into a whimp if he has to defend himself and adopts the attitude of "I am above being asked" and now his wife is out to defend him by attacking Hillary. Well, well, the same old tricks by the candidate who tries preaching "change".

The republican debate was sad. As a Democrate, I think the strongest candidate would Mitt, but their
field of candidates is indeed sad. Why were their
attacks only directed toward Clinton? Quite interesting.

I know that I am wasting my time as I can never find my comments posted on this MSNBC site and I believe that they post only a small percentage of pro-Clinton
comments. Good to vent some of the frustrations by writing as it seems the American voters are really not heard over the pundits who hype for ratings.

I agree that Chris Matthews has been extremely nasty to Hillary Clinton. I am using the remote on him and suggest that MSNBC is becoming the old FOX
"fair and unbalanced" source. Shame on you Chris.
Where does your wife stand on these issues. I would
like to see her playing hardball...asking you the questions on "fair and balanced" reporting. Your latest was a sly input on anouncing "New York Times"
endorsement of Hillary Clinton. They got it totally
right with their choice of words for Hillary. And for the ones who say she has baggage....I say, her baggage has been opened and searched. Obama's is being kept locked. That is exactly what the media
did with Bush and the voters are sorry that they didn't learn more about that candidate. Americans
use your brains -- our country needs a strong, gutsy,
intellegent, experienced, hard-working President.
I think the only one running who fits that description is Hillary Clinton. The republican debaters last night seem to think the same thing and showed how worried they are about going up against her.

Laura, WA

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Kira, Utah — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:13:00 GMT

Dan (upstate) sane, and Neil- well said!

For those of you going on about call-in/text polls, those are about as reliable/balance as voting on American Idol or Dancing with the Stars. How many times did each of you call? How many different phones did you use? how many texts did you send? The reason real polling is more accurate (albeit slightly) is because each person only gets to respond ONCE.

Ron Paul fans- bless your hearts for being so devoted, but the 5 states that have already had primaries/caucuses should show you that he is NOT a viable candidate. Even his second in NV is nothing to get excited about- he's the only candidate that campaigned there besides Romney, and Romney dominated.

Romney did great last night. I think McCain did too. Huck looked nervous, especially at the beginning (I've never seen him look anything but confident before), Giuliani did okay-not enough to boost him though, Paul said the same things he always says and will maintain the same amount of support he's always had.

Who won? Who lost? Debate takeaway

Larry Big Rapids Mi. — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:31:21 GMT

are boat is at the edge of the falls.Dr.Paul is are anchor.the press won't let us find him.we are in for some real hard times in this country and we don't see it comming.God Bless america and Dr.Ron Paul