Last night's debate

heywood jablwme — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:32:10 GMT

Dominated? DOMINATED???? really....

Watching those two idiots argue about who is the biggest idoit was the biggest waste of television time in the history of political debate or television. Ron Paul DOMINATED the debate. it's just to bad you criminals in the MSM keep ignoring his message. DOMINATED you say..ok

Last night's debate

Corey Fla. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:33:41 GMT

I have followed many debates through out the years but this was by far the most shameful one. Like many other bloggers, Anderson Cooper and the CNN staff gave no air time Huckabee and Ron Paul. Cooper and the other anchors were so focused on who was more conservative, Romney or McCain. Americans don’t/shouldn’t care about who is more conservative… they should care about who will help America the most. Americans should care about whom will make the American People believe in themselves and the nation. Cooper allowed McCain and Romney to fight it out like CHILDREN. If McCain and Romney (two Republicans with many of the same ideas) fight like children, why do we think that THEY can unite Washington, where there will be democrats, too.
The anchors following the debate were so captured by the children fighting that I think they forgot to listen to the debate/issues. Huckabee had some great points, and out debated McCain and Romney when given the SMALL about of time to do so. In my opinion, CNN should issue an apology to Paul and Huckabee.

Last night's debate

JohnnyU, WA State — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:36:13 GMT

Hey, remember Ron Paul, he was the voice of common sense and reason last night and was all but ignored. Speaks volumes about the GOP. McCain says he wants to "cut spending" while keeping this war going....??
Does he know how much the war is costing?? Does he care about the bridges failing here at home. Does he care about sick kids with no health care?? Does he even know whats happening to JOBS in this country???

Last night's debate

CitizenJ — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:37:46 GMT

The Democrats have on their side the best orator in the race (Obama), and the best debater in the race (Clinton). It was painful last night for me to watch McCain mumbling and bumbling and reciting Phil Grahm and how he was a footsoldier and how timetables were the buzzword, and Romney missing key opportunities to stick it to McCain. Both of these guys will have problems debating Obama or Clinton.

Last night's debate

DAVID ANDERS , PHARR, TX. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:37:48 GMT

ALL THE BLOGS CLEARLY SAY HUCKABEE WON, MCCAIN LIED AND ROMMEY AND MCCAIN ACTED LIKE CHILDREN. ANDERSON WAS VERY UNFAIR TO HUCKABEE, WHO IS INTELLIGENT,MOST EXPERIENCED, BEST SPEAKER===BUT KILLED BY FOX NEWS FIRST, THEN CNN LAST NIGHT. THANK TO MIKA AND JOE THEY MADE UP FOR MSNBC

Last night's debate

Jeff, Austin — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:40:34 GMT

As McCain and Romney dominated the early portion of the debate, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee jumped in, saying, "I want to make sure this is not a two-man race. There's another guy down here."If we're going to talk conservatism, I'd like to be in on the discussion." As usual GOP candidates argue who is most conservative.

Who won the CNN Republican Debate in California?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1664

.

Last night's debate

Nancy Croker, Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:40:45 GMT

Respectfully, while it is true that one could argue that Mitt Romney and John McCain are the leading Republican candidates, with the polls saying that Romney is less than one point above Mike Huckabee, is that really fair? Within the error margin, I'd say they were in a dead heat nationally.

Looking at the way the last two Republican debates have been managed, it is hard not to feel that the networks have little regard for those watching who truly want to make up their minds among all the candidates. We are just at the beginning of the race for delegates -- too soon to have the networks deciding for us who the front runners are, especially when things continue to be so very close.

Perhaps, just perhaps, the so called "news" media has lost its way. Please broaden your scope beyond just baiting, covering, and commenting on bickering and slickness, and let us see the real issues discussed. The American voter is smarter than it seems you give him credit for.

Last night's debate

Russ Wells, Maine — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:41:01 GMT

I agree with you corey what a shame that the media reprsents the american people and it was so ovbious that they were avoiding 2 of the canadates, and at the beginning they said they would all have the same opportunity and time..They should opologize and to avoid these situation dont invite canadates who you know you give a hoot about..But opologize is in order....Ordinary people could have done better. quit looking to make yourself look good. You did a terriable job.

Last night's debate

Dee, Pomona, NY — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:45:50 GMT

McCain was extremely unpresidential. He has obvious anger issues...why would anyone support this guy? Romney may not have liked some of the questions or McCains untruths about Romney's past statements...but Romney was clearly in control of his emotions. McCain's temperment scares me.

Last night's debate

jerry/corpus christi texas — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:48:42 GMT

No wonder they call it the Clinton News Network....

Last night's debate

Mike, Austin, TX — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:50:36 GMT

For those of us who consider ourselves conservative, how conservative someone is relates very strongly to how much good they can do for our country. This is the thing McCain doesn't seem to get. Conservatism isn't just some list of policies that some party has to push for or we're out, it's a world view that informs policies. If you aren't a conservative (and before you say it, Bush is not one so don't use his actions as a measure) then you may think our policies are crazy. Okay, let's debate them and we'll find the best solutions. But McCain makes statements that are directly contrary to conservative sentiment. He hits Mitt because he has money, he says Alito wears his conservatism too much on his sleeve, and he promises more wars. These do not reflect a conservative viewpoint where small government, low taxes, and non-interventionism are the watchwords. People respect McCain because he sticks to his principles, but they hate Bush for doing the same thing. And they do that because Bush's policies, which have abandoned conservatism, have gotten us into some real trouble. Why do people expect that McCain's inability to stick to conservative principles will give us anything different than what we got from Bush doing the same thing? Here's the straight talk: McCain says people's jobs are gone because he doesn't know how to get them back, he promises more wars because he doesn't know how to avoid them, and he says businesspeople aren't qualified to lead because he has no idea what they do. McCain isn't a disaster because he fights the party, he's a disaster because he just doesn't get it.

Last night's debate

MEG from Maryland — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:51:51 GMT

I watched the Republican debate last night and confirmed my gut instinct that McCain is not the best candidate. I watched the Florida primary and his last strategy on Romney was totally dishonorable and cheap. What is happening to the Republicans in supporting such a candidate that is so different from our conservative ideals? I disagree with the belief that he is the most electable. His policy on immigration should be firmly rebuked and by itself makes him incapable of being in our ranks!!! I am a hispanic USA citizen who spent her life working honorably to raise a family and look for opportunities and see how now our credibility and opportunities have been eroded by the influx of these ilegal immigrants who bring shame to our hispanic culture. It has taken a lot of effort on our parts to be well accepted in this society and I condemn anyone endorsing these criminals who do not have any respect for our laws and want to shove themselves into our system. So, McCain IS NOT the right choice. The Republican Party will take the wrong turn if they endorse this candidate. I see him as someone utterly stubborn who will lead this nation into disaster. Please WAKE UP!!!!

Last night's debate

C. Marie — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:52:46 GMT

I found it telling that McCain admits he took his campaigning cues from Romney. Not very leader-like to follow the crowd. In the '00 race I liked McCain but last night he came off smug and snippy. He stuck to that crappy Romney-timetables quote that was taken completely put of context. He looked ridiculous.

Romney looked good to me and I liked that he called McCain on that stuff

Paul is Paul god bless him. Great response on war issues. Biggest applause all night.

Huckabee? I hear people saying he won the debate but all I remember about him is "give me more time, give me more time". This MINISTER whats to tell us where to stick a flagpole and he wants to change the constitution to fit god's laws. He scares me.....a lot.

Last night's debate

Leaders Lead, SC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:54:45 GMT

Commenters on this site are incredible. I guess McCain's supporters all have jobs, so they don't have time to speak to all the BS unloaded by you people. John McCain survived a situation where fellow prosoners died around him and he never knew if he was next! He is the kind of Republican I can be proud of. 1) Spend what you got, not what you hope to have 2) Except for your own wife, stay out of other women's ovaries as much as possible 3) Rise up to the defense of your country when attacked. You jokers need to read the classifieds instead of political commentary, because it obviously above your head.

Last night's debate

Lynn SC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:56:32 GMT

As a previous post points out, it seemed there were only two candidates on the stage. Mike Huckabee did indeed make some solid points and Ron Paul also has some worthy ideas.

The biggest disgrace was John "Amnesty" McCain playing fast and loose with the truth, as usual. Looks like the Straight Talk Express continues to take a lot of DETOURS from the truth!!No wonder he is such good friends with Hillary " I Can Out-Fib Anybody" Clinton-- they share the same values!

Last night's debate

HP, Kansas — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:59:35 GMT

Ron Paul made the most sense last night, but sadly, he is being ignored by the media. Romney won on every issue discussed between him and McCain. Huckaby was just funny. And McCain.......Wow!, he's terrible and knowone in the media can see it. Or maybe they can, but are trying to cover for him.

Last night's debate

Linda F — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:00:42 GMT

All I can say is Romney can dish it out but he can't take it. This debate proved that. His attack ads in IA, NH and SC were disgraceful and underhanded and FALSE against both Huckabee and McCain and thank God they didn't work. Now that the real truth comes out about what Romney said and did as Governor, he just can't take it. McCain is just telling the truth and some of those Radio talk show people (Laura Ingram and Rush Limbaugh)need to start listening instead of trashing McCain and Huckabee all the time.

Last night's debate

Heather Brewer Charlotte, NC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:00:51 GMT

I absolutely agree with Corey. Here's something along these lines that I've been thinking about. The people's voice, ie votes, is what makes this a democratic election, right? Put the polls and the media portray the "inevitable" when they label candidates and focus on 2 of the 4 in a debate. But we are the polls! The tide can change at any time, whenever we change our minds. How many states still must vote? They could take out the "frontrunners." But we, as Americans, get trapped in the paradigm that there are candidates most likely to win and there is no hope. We say, it's down to two candidates, too bad, guess I'll pick one. If everyone voted their conscience without counting anyone out who is still in the race, then that would be truly democratic. The polls wouldn't matter nearly as much if people realized that it is their right and duty to vote their conscience and change their mind along the way--no matter who the media says is most likely. WE DICTATE WHO MOST LIKELY IS at any time. The polls and the media become an illusion that traps many of us into a negative way of thinking. Solution: vote for whomever you believe in. I'm for Huckabee, not Ron Paul, but if Paul's your man check that box as long as he's on the ballot. Most Paul and Huckabee supporters will anyway, but some are lost in the hype. If we didn't like what we saw from McCain and Romney last night--we can change the polls and the outcome. And the dems...? They'd fall all over themselves in a debate with Huckabee. And the republicans and independents would have a leader of charcter and substance to rally behind.

Last night's debate

a female voter in Michigan — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:07:50 GMT

This debate was very reminiscent on the previous Democratic debate with the squabbling between the frontrunners. It was disappointing not to see more airtime given to Ron Paul or Mike Huckabee, they are viable candidates and many of us would have liked to have seen more of a good exchange showing the view of all 4 candidates to help us in our decision making process. My state has already voted, if Obama makes it into the bid he will have my vote because I do see him as the one person so far who appeals across all barriers. However I cannot in good conscience vote for Clinton if she is that party's nominee and I am not alone. Many Independents and Democrats have expressed their concerns over returning the Clintons to the White House, and are watching both sides of this race closely. So here's hoping the candidates realize they are campaigning not only to win the "conservative" voting members of the GOP, but those of us who are disallusioned with the other choices are also watching and deciding.

Last night's debate

Peter, Pensacola, Florida — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:08:07 GMT

Where is our Independent party candidate when you need him. Our two party system as become a joke. Last night reminded me of two kids arguing over who said what and when. Tonight the Dems will put on an even better show.

Last night's debate

bc Indiana — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:13:31 GMT

McCain's fudging on the immigration issue by saying people want the border secured. Is he referring to the US/Mexican border? I would assume so because no one in his right mind is going to state they can secure the US/Canada border. You'd have to be devoid of any geographical knowledge to make a statement like that.

People will always find a way in and the place to target them is at the employment and government services level. Arizona and Oklahoma have already proved it works. McCain desperately doesn't want to go there.

As far as McCain's insistence that the Republicans lost seats beacuse of the economy and not Iraq I think don't see how you can separate them. The cost of the war is affecting the economy not to mention other issues like an uncontrolled mortgage market.

What I see in McCain is a hawk who is past his day and is war obsessed. Yes, terrorism should be fought but let's do it the smartest way possible and that's by the development of extensive counter terrorism networks as opposed to using conventional forces in cumbersome interventions.

Lat night, for me, Romney won by default, McCain's got some serious flaws in his approach and that's what I saw.

Last night's debate

DAVID ANDERS , PHARR, TX. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:16:02 GMT

HUCKABEE AND RON PAUL SHOULD RUN AS INDEPENDENTS MCCAIN AND ROMMNEY, AND CLINTON AND OBAMA ACT LIKE CHILDREN

Last night's debate

GsonJagnath — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:17:02 GMT

It is all evident from the debate.

Mccain and RoMoney have no decency and unfit for presidency.
Media is trying to push RoMOney into limelight and Huck to backstage, so that RoMoney can try to steal some conservative votes.
Both McCain and RoMoney are Phoneys and are liberals. But trying to get "Conservative" image. Only image they got in the debate is "Brawlers"

Last night's debate

Dave, Tn — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:22:30 GMT

That debate was another huge waste of time. I'd like to see at least one Republican debate where the people asking questions are card carrying conservatives. Off the top of my head Victor Davis Hanson, Byron York, Shelby Steele, Hell throw Rush in as Master of Ceremonies. Now that would be interesting to watch. I'll bet c-span would host. I can't remember a good Republican debate hosted by CNN

Last night's debate

ross,austin ,tx — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:23:17 GMT

McCain makes my skin crawl. I'm really not sure how smart he is. I wish we could have heard more from Huck and Paul.

Last night's debate

Kathryn in Bham — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:26:33 GMT

Mike Huckabee -
To set the record straight about the 'flagpole issue'...
I attended a speech he gave here in Birmingham, AL last weekend and stayed for the press conference that followed. A reporter asked a question trying to engage Huckabee in the issue of the S.C. flag - to which he replied (cutting off the reporter in mid sentence) that this was not an issue for the presidential candidates. He said that the governor of S.C. handled the issue - as he should have, without consulting the president - and it is not an issue. The reporter then tried to tie the subject to the race issue, which Gov. Huckabee clearly pointed out was also a non-issue. He cannot attest to the issues that the state of S.C. dealt with or how they handled it. What he can say is that HE did not have that issue to deal with, should not have that issue to deal with - and it has NOTHING to do with his stance on any racial issues. He, as he pointed out, is well-received amongst the african-americans in Arkansas and has continued to have a positive role in the progression of the african-american community.

Does anyone else know what Gov. Huckabee's stance is on the issues? Does anyone else know his plan for strengthening the economy, taking away our dependence on foreign oil and controlling our borders? Take a look. This is someone we can ALL get behind...

Last night's debate

Charlie, Chicago, IL — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:32:53 GMT

I disagree with many of the opinions here. I did think that Huckabee & Paul said some good things, and should have got more time. Paul's constant refences to the money supply and finally, at the end, to the gold standard seemed backwards to me.

I thought McCain had a good showing. Very sharp barb about his home state newspaper in AZ endorsing him! On the issue of Romney & timetables, Romney said that he didn't endorse public or private ones, but the quote clearly called for a private one b/t the president & el Malaki. McCain's contention that "timelines" was (not were)a watchword makes sense...but I don't think this was a big issue, McCain's main point should have been that he took a political risk on the surge and leave the comparisons with Romney to the audience.

Last night's debate

Michael, Arlington, VA — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:34:51 GMT

It was dominated by McCain and Romney solely because of poor moderation by Anderson Cooper and unbalanced questioning. It's a complete farce that the media should get away with framing the discussion for the voting populace. We'll think for ourselves, thank you very much. Shameful.

Last night's debate

Tom Kennett, Cheyenne, WY — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:40:01 GMT

John McCain will probably get the GOP nomination but not on character, not on substance, but on the slight chance that he may defeat the DEM nominee.
If the GOP wanted to test the true standard bearer of conservatism, they would nominate Ron Paul and let America choose between two philosophies rather than vote for another lesser of two evils choice, a choice which was not selected the last time.

Last night's debate

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:43:46 GMT

Just because McCain was lucky and didn't get killed as a POW, doesn't make him presidential material. He's a war monger, and it seems he's set on getting us into WWIII on day two of his presidency. Day one is reserved for going to War with Vietnam as payback time for all those years as a POW. He's a mumbling, bumbling, cranky old man who needs to just pop his gerital and retire with his trophy wife and leave the country to smarter younger people, i.e., either Hillary or Obama.

Last night's debate

lfr — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:44:02 GMT

I'm glad Romney called McCain out last nite on twisting his words. It's time McCain is exposed. The media gives McCain a free pass because of the POW card he continues to squeeze. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nl9YE4G8gcY

Last night's debate

Carrie S. Browns Mills, New Jersey — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:45:11 GMT

I am not a Paul supporter; I am a Huckabee supporter. However, the way CNN treated Paul last night flat out sucked. They cut him off repetitively and never went back as promised to allow him to talk about his conservative views... And Huckabee didn't have it much better. Both candidates had to fight for a chance to be given time to say anything. Completely unacceptable. Whatever happened to letting all the candidates have equal opportunity to discuss the issues? And how about presenting and spending time on some real issues? Environment, healthcare, economics, world policy... who cares about who said what when and what you see when you look in other leader's eyes... stick to the issues... educate the viewers don't just feed them a soap opera.

Last night's debate

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:46:00 GMT

Last night's debate

Rifle — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:53:32 GMT

C. Marie said....
"Huckabee? I hear people saying he won the debate but all I remember about him is "give me more time, give me more time". This MINISTER whats to tell us where to stick a flagpole and he wants to change the constitution to fit god's laws. He scares me.....a lot."

=====================================================

What is scary about protecting unborn babies with a constitutional amendment banning abortion? There have been 45 million unborn babies terminated since the 1973 Roe v Wade decision....that is equal to 15,000 occurrances of the 911 attacks....and if you believe that God is somehow okay with that, then you don't even know the definition of scared.

Mike Huckabee is absolutely correct on the issue of abortion and the need to amend the constitution on that, as well as an affirmation of traditional marriage as described in the Bible.

And sure, he'll be criticized and ridiculed for stating his beliefs and acting on them....

....so was Noah.

Last night's debate

William Halverstadt, Tehachapi, CA. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:55:52 GMT

Watching last nights debate made me sad to see that the race has become nothing more than a school yard popularity contest. We still have almost a whole year left but the MSM has already chosen who they want us to vote for. CNN really should appologize for what they did to Paul & Huckabee. The people trully need to turn off the MSM and research for themselves who they want to vote for, cause they aren't getting the full story from the News.

Last night's debate

Janam, Albany, NY — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:56:01 GMT

Being an independent, I was considering voting for McCain in the event of a McCain-Hillary matchup and for Obama in the event of a McCain-Obama matchup. But after the debate, I have made up my mind -- I will vote for any "donkey" err... any democratic candidate.

Last night's debate

Tamara Houston, TX — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:01:10 GMT

This is politics! An ad that contrasts positions IS NOT an attack ad! Mitt Romney ran contrast ads and pointed out the differences - they were not personal attacks and the only way they can be perceived as negative is if you didn't like what it said about your candidate! Mike Huckabee "innocently" makes a statement regarding Mormons meant to freak out the evangelicals right before the vote and he gets a pass? He said he didn't know much about Mormons but yet was a speaker for the SBC in Salt Lake - the mission was to convert the Mormons? No one mentions that little tidbit of info! THAT is negative! John McCain releases a portion of a quote with the intent of misrepresenting Mitt Romney's stance on Irag - and he gets a pass. THAT was negative. Huckabee and McCain have been tag teaming Romney throughout this process and I think that Romney has behaved in a very dignified manner! It would have been tough for me to sit there and not smack the smirk off of McCain's face! The records of these men can be researched - Romney has the most conservative record! Ron Paul has a habit of putting pork into bills that he knows will pass and then votes against the bill so he can say he never voted for any pork! His supporters should do some research. Huckabee and McCain hate Romney because he's rich - class envy is the mantle of liberalism isn't it? Enough said.

Last night's debate

Oldchap, Pittsburg,NH — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:02:51 GMT

What a farce. McCain smug and contrite, Romney fumbled, Huckabee and Paul ignored, uprofessionally moderated, a pain to endure. OC.

Last night's debate

Susan, MASS — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:05:24 GMT

McCain was fighting like a kid....he is a liar and tried to avoid admitting it.
Romney is a professional man capable of discussion without losing his ool or focus.
Can you imagine McCain in negotiations with our enemy???

Last night's debate

jon sweitzer boone nc — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:08:25 GMT

well Mr. Anderson Cooper ; that was the most shoddy piece of news work I have seen in a long time.
Did any one tell you there were 4 on the stage last night:not 2. Ron Paul made the most sense last night, but sadly, he is being ignored by the cnn. shameful.

Last night's debate

Joshua, Harleysville, Pennsylvania — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:19:07 GMT

McCain is a donosaur of the past and should be put back at the Smithsonian Institute. Vote Romney if you want real change, the reporters reporting these stories are distorting the news to meet their own agenda's. Report the news, don't create the news spinsters. Heck if I was Romney I'd be a little angry too with McCain's sniveling lieing to the the American public and it's seniors.

Last night's debate

Rick, Ws, NC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:19:35 GMT

The two rep lilliputians arguing over who was more 'conservative'...funny stuff...it is not conservative to support deficits, debt, foreign ventures, hatred, gooberment spying on citizens, taxpayer handouts for private companies...bush, rush, mcwar and mittflip are not conservatives

Last night's debate

patriotdefender, Alabama — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:22:27 GMT

McCain flat out is a liar and the worst kind of Washington player....Romney was on the entire night....when he is overwhelmed, McCain simply lies, distorts, misquotes....he is old and out of touch....If I hear one more reference to his military service that occured some 40 plus years ago....how does that help any of us today....he might have been a leader then, but he def. is NOT now.......EVERYONE vote for ROMNEY, save this party from complete distruction...PLEASE!!!

Last night's debate

Robin B. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:25:01 GMT

Time table shmime table. When are the Republican candidates going to get serious? No one wants a lingering war! Whats so bad about thinking about an end to this war? Ugg, the nit-picking. McCain showed a bull-headed, cocky side last night and the last thing I want is another bull-headed BUSH. I want someone who can change his mind if the business plan isn't working. Ron Paul, thanks for all your honesty! Too bad, no one really cares! Unfortunately, CNN is not fair and equal in giving all four candidates their time.

Last night's debate

YELLOW DOG DEM L. AR. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:25:25 GMT

I AM IN FULL AGREEMENT WITH THE MAJORITY OF YOUR BLOGGERS. COOPER DID ABOUT THE POOREST JOB OF QUESTIONING THE CANDIDATE'S I HAVE EVER HEARD.
THEN THE ANSWERS FROM THE KID'S FIGHTING WERE JUST SAD. LAST NIGHT HUCKABEE AND PAUL LOOKED LIKE THE BEST OF THAT BUNCH BUT IF THEY HAD BEEN GIVEN TIME TO SAY MUCH MORE THEY WOULD HAVE REVEALED THEIR IDEAS. OF COURSE THE VOTERS SHOULD BECOME AWARE OF WHAT THESE TWO ARE ALL ABOUT. THEY HAVE SOME CRAZY IDEAS. RON PAUL JUST GOES OFF ON SOME KIND OF A FANTASY WORLD AND HUCKABEE'S FAIR TAX PLAN IS NOT FAIR AT ALL.
I SAY THERE WAS A TIE BETWWEN McCAIN AND ROMNEY FOR 4TH PLACE LAST NIGHT, AND RON PAUL AND HUCKABEE TIED FOR 1ST.
ALL McCAIN HAS TO SAY IS THAT HE IS A PROVEN LEADER AND HE SAID IT AND SAID IT AND SAID IT AND SO ON.
ROMNEY KEPT GRINNING LIKE A CHESSHIRE CAT. AND TRYING TO DEFEND McCAIN'S ATTACKS. HE SHOULD HAVE JUST BRUSHED THEM OFF BECAUSE McCAIN'S WHOLE DEBATE WAS SO LIMITED ROMNEY COULD HAVE EASILY TAKEN CONTROL.

JUST THINK FOLK'S - ONE OF THOSE BOZO'S COULD BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT!!! SCARY HUH.

Last night's debate

Displeased citizen, West palm beach, Fl. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:27:02 GMT

Do we really listen to what the candidates say in those debates...in my opinion of the debate last night Ron paul and mike Huckubee were disrespected by the minimal attention given to them by the media...the media claims it's a two way race, so why did they invite those two cadidates in the first place. Is the media making up the minds of the American pepople? Are the elections over? It's a long way to November. The Issues were not addressed last night...McCain and Romney sounded like two kids. Is this how we are going to move forward, is this how we are going to unite the nation.
I still leave my options open to Huckabee or Ron paul.
The country is in debt, yet we want to extend the war in Iraq indefinitely? hmmmm that makes sooo much sense. the race is not yet over all the candidates deserve to be heard equally. The american people decides who wins not the media...

Last night's debate

Jim, Boston, MA — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:28:17 GMT

The Ron Paul crowd needs to understand that either McCain or Romney are going to win the nomination. I want to hear these two out on the issues so I can make a decision, Huckabee and Paul are a side show at this point...

Last night's debate

GS, Carolstream, IL — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:34:39 GMT

Mitt Romney won this debate. He looked crisp, sharp, had facts at his command, and exuded confidence.
McCain not only looked old and tired, constantly leaning on his arms and speaking in a monotone, he made a very poor showing in trying to falsely stretch a Romney quote from April into an endorsement of a withdrawal. That's not only ridiculous, it's blatantly a smear. The reason McCain won't back down on this is that he painted himself into that dark corner of being a liar, so in order to keep people from thinking he's a liar, he can't back down. John McCain himself in January 2007 actually did talk about ending the mission if surge milestones didn't get met by the Iraqi government, making this a pretty dumb choice for an attack on Romney. And even Anderson Cooper had to talk over John McCain to tell him he got it wrong. McCain said that he hadn't yet decided on precise benchmarks. "They'd have to be specific, and they (Iraqi government officials) would have to meet them," he said. Asked what penalty would be imposed if Iraq failed to meet his benchmarks, he said: "I think everybody knows the consequences. Haven't met the benchmarks? Obviously, then, we're not able to complete the mission. Then you have to examine your options." So what was McCain talking about? More troops, or not completing the mission? He didn't use the word "timetables", but unmet benchmarks have to have timetables to be unmet, and clearly McCain had some timeframe in mind with this remark.

Last night's debate

Russ Wells, Maine — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:34:49 GMT

Gee chuck i dont understand how you can say McCain came out ahead of the debate..He was terriable rude smirky and avoided answering the question while you collegues ignored huk and ron...Well you not speaking for those of ous who wateched it..And i hope the independents will thounder over your supports for Canadates who dont cut the mustard buy because of there money and media backing we have accept what you put forward..What a waste..

Last night's debate

Robin B. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:39:42 GMT

They are all talking about Reagan. Well wasn't that 27 years ago? The world has changed. We have to keep up with the times. We are the only country that truly does not believe in equal rights. America constantly battles over what I consider non issues. I want lower taxes, less government, less spending, however I also do not want to police the world for our self-serving interests. We must rise above and lead. I am also for gay's serving openly in the military, and having legal unions,(not marriage) and a woman's right to choose,(not that I believe all women will abort), but not for socialized medicine. Where does that leave me? I'm between Hillary socially and Romney fiscally. The others either have no substance, just talk, or are archaic in body and mind.

Last night's debate

Liar McCain, USA — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:39:47 GMT

MCCAIN'S GOING TO BE STRUCK BY LIGHTNING ANY SECOND. SLEEZE BAG IS WHAT HE IS. ROMNEY NEEDS TO SLAM HIM WITH ADS AND TEAR HIS RECORD APART FOR THE LAST 25 YEARS. IT'S WAR! PEOPLE ARE TOO STUPID TO SEE HIS SLIMY GREASE BALL PERSONALITY SO ROMNEY SHOULD GO AFTER HIM AND DESTROY HIS CAREER. REVEAL EVERY SHADY PERSON MCCAIN HAS TALKED TO HIS ENTIRE CAREER, SO THAT WHEN HILLARY OR OBAMA BEATS HIM THIS FALL, AND THEY WILL, HE WILL HAVE NOTHING LEFT AND NO CREDIBILITY. IF HE CAN'T FIGURE OUT WHEN TO RETIRE, THEN MITT SHOULD JUST DECIDE FOR HIM!

Last night's debate

He's Dishonest, USA — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:42:24 GMT

YOU CAN SEE BUGS IN MCCAIN'S TEETH WHEN HE SMIRKS LIKE A CAT CAUGHT WITH A MOUSE IN HIS MOUTH.

Last night's debate

Jennifer Bell, Cresco, Pennsylvania — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:48:52 GMT

Nothing but ego - a shameful display of arguing and banter...it's simply called a "debate" did anyone else see one? I do believe Mike Huckabee tried to remind both the candidates and the interviewers several times of what a debate is and there are four candidates. I was embarrassed to sit and watch supposed leaders act like children and watch how biased the media was to McCain & Romney. Let's get back to the issues at hand. Isn't it interesting, politicians wonder why Americans are skeptical of our national government.

Last night's debate

Shane, Spokane, WA — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:51:18 GMT

If people think Romney was attacking or acting childish they obviously didn't see the same debate. He was standing up for his views under the attacks of McCain. McCain came across as a smug and snide old man. Every time he spoke he had to make a little snide remark or stab and couldn't even answer the questions asked. He goes back and back and back to the iraq war, his military experience, etc. When asked how he was prepared to influence/lead on the economy he totally dodged it. This man scares me as I fear he will offend those we seek to make our friends and set off our enemies even more. Romney hasn't attacked, as others have stated. I don't know when comparative ads were attacking, he only provides facts (not halve truths, lies or things taken completely out of context). If someone can get beyond emotion and the feel good idea of voting for a POW and really look at the issues and the skills, there is no way they wouldn't or shouldn't vote for Romney.

Last night's debate

Sam Hain Tucson, AZ — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:52:57 GMT

If these 4 are the best we Republicans can come up with God help us all. McCain doesn't have a clue about anything other than war. Huckabee will probably claim he had an epiphany shortly after he moves into the White House and inject even more religion into the presidency. Just what we don't need after getting rid of the current supposed conservative idiot who claims God speaks to him. Paul is so far out there one might think he came from Pluto. Romney thinks the world of finance in the private sector is the same as the governmental side. Would some intelligent conservative please step up and save us.

Last night's debate

Barbara C., Pompano Beach, FL — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:55:19 GMT

Ok...let me talk about last night's debate which is very telling when you ask three different family members who are card carrying members of the GOP. Two of them are looking at Hillary and one of them has been checking out Obama's websites. This to me, is the MOST TELLING issue of all this year is that that Republicans have horrible candidates. McCain came across as mean and angry last night all my Republican family members told me today.

Last night's debate

dissillusioned in bama — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:57:06 GMT

To Charlie in Chicago: Actually Bush had set timetables for the Iraq government to follow; the seldom met them; the timetables that McCain is emplying are not what Romney was talking about, MCain is past his time- Romney would probably do a better job, but I like Huck- I don't this I will vote for him though because I don't think he will win, the best man doesn't always win- I won't vote for McCain not a chance If he is the nominee I guess I will sit this one out- His views are so contrary to what I believe a conservative is- I wish I had the same hopefulness as some of you about being able to get Huck in but I am a realistic person and it's not just the polls he is just too far behind, the media won't even give him a chance to answer the questions! How can people know where he stands.

Last night's debate

Russ Horency, Rock Hill, SC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:57:39 GMT

Sirs;
I think the media should stop calling these docu-dramas "Debates". Its a great new idea, this way they candidates don't have to actually "debate" anyone and don't have to defend their positions.
This way the sheep in this country don't have to think, they just vote on the personality of the candidate, or what they wear or how cool they seem.
It's a good thing that our school system is being dumbed down at the same time, this way our children won't have to ever worry about thinking again.
But it works out pretty good, Ron Paul got to answer 3 questions in an hour and a half, and was the only candidate to have been interruped and stopped 2 times when trying to answer a question.
What a bunch of.............

Russ Horency

Last night's debate

one sad GOPer — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:22:47 GMT

Oh gee, who do we have to choose from as republicans, a 70 yr old who is going on 90 or a man who believes in Mormonism.Ah..wow, am not voting this november.

Last night's debate

Sal, NY, NY — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:58:44 GMT

As always, Ron Paul wiped the floor with McCain and Mitt. Remember last debate when John McCain was openly racist, read it here:
http://www.nolanchart.com/article1084.html

Unfortunately it took segregationist Governor Wallace to reveal the truth that "there's not a dime's worth of difference between" Republicans and Democrats. The Democrats willingly went along with the War in Iraq, suspension of Habeas Corpus, detaining protesters, banning books like "America Deceived' from Amazon, stealing private lands (Kelo decision), warrant-less wiretapping and refusing to investigate 9/11 properly. They are both guilty of treason.
Support Dr. Ron Paul and save this great nation.
Last link (before Google Books bends to gov't Will and drops the title):
http://www.iuniverse.com/bookstore/book_detail.asp?&isbn=0-595-38523-0

Last night's debate

SHERRI - LORIS, SC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:01:20 GMT

Why does McCain think that just because he was in the military,he is a better candidate than anyone else. He is honestly a joke and I can not believe that he has got the endorsements that he says. Obviously, he has worked out something with these guys to take care of them and their aggendas if he gets in the whitehouse. It is so obvious it is rediculous who the best candidate is. McCain on his best day can not and will not ever be able to compete with Mitt Romney on his worse day on any of the issues. America, wake up and stop listening to the media. Search it out yourselves, each candidate, and forget who endorsed whom and look at their records. Can you imagine John MccCain trying to negotiate with anyone. The only thing he knows how to say is the same old story over and over again, "HIS MILITARY EXPERIENCE". He served in the war, so did millions of other good men and women. John McCain (MY FRIEND), give it up. You are not a leader, certainly not the leader that our great nation deserves. Mitt Romney is the obvious choice. Go Mitt......

Last night's debate

SC_GOP, Greer, SC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:16:15 GMT

All Ron Paul supporters and Mike Huckabee supporters: how about this idea. After the super Tuesday, let's having Huckabee-Paul or Paul-Huckabee tickets and combine the delegates. There are only two honorable candidates in this race. Huckabee and Paul. We and the GOP really do not need the Mitty and Johnny children fighting in front of national TV for us.

Last night's debate

Joe LaRock Palm Bay Florida — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:21:30 GMT

You've got to be kidding me! John McCain! This guy looks and sounds like a mental patient! I think he is still in Saigon! If he ever was to be elected, God help us all! The first thing he would do is Bomb Iran like he has talked about and we would be in Iraq for at least 100 yrs! Not to mention all the $$$ we don't have to spend so he can play war. PLEASE PEOPLE WAKE UP!!! This man will ruin us for good. Lets get rid of him before it is too late!! NO NUKES FOR YOU McCain!!!!

Last night's debate

daren wants freedom — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:25:25 GMT

why glorify the two men who in no way showed they were willing let alone wanted to stand for our constitution? RON PAUL is the one that should be glorified here, he is the only one that spoke any sense about foriegn policy and the ECONOMY! stop feeding lies, start shining light on the truth.

Last night's debate

Fred, Vancouver, BC — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:28:28 GMT

McCain was terrible. He looked anything but presidential. This was sort of a butcher wearing a suit for the 1st time.

There are a lot of holes in the profile of John McCain that the Democratic nominee could rip through them, and provided many people would like to listen! In the Republican debate he really looked terrible. His stance on Iraq is based on a set of fabrications (WMD) and distortions (Qaida). There were no weapons of mass destruction and Saddam had nothing to do with 9-11. Also, the main objectives of the so called "surge" were not met. Would any judicious person doubt that the US can militarily make Iraq quiet? The US has enough weapons and spends more than 500 billion Dollars on its military budget; on the other hand Iraq is a backward third world country with rife illiteracy and poverty, and which has no army to defend itself. So, it is pathetic to brag about success in these circumstances and when such war should have never happened in the first place. Finally, would a status of prisoner of war make a person a war hero?

Last night's debate

Martini, Park City, Utah — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:34:07 GMT

Why do all you McCain fans have such a short memory? It hasn't been that long ago since McCain was begging John Kerry to make him his running mate to run against Bush and the rest of the republican party.

Last night's debate

patricia dasher, crossville. Tn. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:44:56 GMT

Listen Up! The U.S. can"t declare victory because we are not fighting a country Iraq- nor can we surrender to a country we invaded and intend to stay.This is the main reason for all present troubles-the cost to us & the lives lost noy to mention the disabled and broken families. This for POWER not Democracy. Truth of the media would expose this or say the real reason for the war mongers. I would think that MaC would see this best but being in war life since 17 has molded him STUPID. Our leader needs to fix our country within, quit wasting our fine soldiers and put the money to use in US to make it strong independent respected and intelligent again.Why are the words of Ron Paul ignored? It is so shameful that this sorry mess was allowed and worse that stupid is overlooked rather than corrected.

Last night's debate

Vi WI — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:54:00 GMT

Mc Cain has always been a moderate conservative. He is a maverick in Evangelical clothing. Clothing he will shed as soon as he gets in office. He will then put on his Airforce uniform and proclaim unending WAr. HALIBUTON WILL CHEER WITH GLEE. Watched him last noc with his Smug responses. He is the only one that knows the truth. The Surge is working cause he put his life on the line. He never mentions al-Sadar the head of the Mahdi Army who last Sept surprised everyone with a unnegoitated cease Fire on Iraq and American forces to last six months. Thats why the death count is down folks. That is the only reason. The death count is going up now cause they captured Sadar friend Abdel Hadi al-Daraji. The deadiest day in Iraq Jan 26, 37 Americans killed. Black Hawk down. Mc Cain never mentions this point about al- Sadars Cease Fire and neither does the news agencies. Why?

Last night's debate

Steve AZ — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:26:09 GMT

I read all of the responses and thank God I'm not the only person who thinks McCain is a complete fool. Remember, the electorate overwhelmingly picked G. Bush over the fool in 2000. How'd that work out? Anyone, I mean anyone but McCain.

Last night's debate

mark suffolk, va — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:39:58 GMT

The media does not want a real conservative to run. Is it me or did McCain buy off the 9/11 mayor? Anyone want to be that McCain picks the Gman governer from NY as the VEEP.

Last night's debate

Mary Doe, central valley, california — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 20:06:30 GMT

Thanks to the honorable Dr Ron Paul who never fails to speak the truth no matter how daunting it may be. Thank you Doc for consistently reminding your co- contestants and your party of how deep a hole they have dug this nation with their woeful economic and political policies. Remind them as you have always done that some viewers and the electorate are still in tune with reality and not in amnesia as they fake to be. It was quite obvious that they are all there for their individual self interest as they consistently refuse the citizens of this great nation an acknowledgment of reality and honest plans on how to go about solving honest issues and problems facing this nation and her people.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AS WE ALL LISTEN AND WAIT INTENTLY FOR SOME HONEST DISCUSS.

Last night's debate

Not settled on anybody yet — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 21:13:50 GMT

CNN wasted a lot of airtime on this "he said, he said" thing... Ron Paul was right on the money there. CNN loses credibility with me when they are more interested in provoking a high school shoving match than they are substantive debate. They must believe all of us to be morons interested only in political roller derby. CNN, please stop hosting the debates. Either that or consult with someone who can teach you how to moderate a fair, balanced, and productive debate. I feel for Huckabee. He had a lot more to say, and they shut him out. They entirely marginalized Ron Paul. Truly awful work by CNN, and Anderson Cooper ought to have done a better job.

Last night's debate

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 21:15:42 GMT

Ron Paul is being ignored by the media as well as the voters. Look at the numbers he has been getting. He might be so conservative that he is libertarian (actually true). If he was really doing something, then where are his supporters? Why aren't they voting?

I have to say that Huckabee did nicely with being patient while McCain and Romney were yelling at one another saying I'm better than you are.

Last night's debate

Russ Wells, Maine — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 21:44:08 GMT

i think everyone should e mail Anderson Cooper and let him know what a lousy job he did and let someone else run it.. I think ordinary Americans could have done a better job and cut to the mustard....Shame for thinking the media is the last say for the American people

Last night's debate

barb san antonio, tx — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 01:40:16 GMT

i watched the debate to see what kind of job the moderators would do. very poor - no control. ignoring 2 candidates was beyond rude. if abortion is made illegal, they'll run to mexico for dirty ones. paul says that should be left up to the states along with same-sex marriage, and legalization of drugs among many moral issues that the federal government has no business regulating. paul has stuck to the issues and not been rude to or run any attack ads about any other candidate. if you really want to know what the candidates stand for, go to their web sites and read them. if you want to know about money, read about it. when the federal reserve prints money that isn't backed by anything but the government, it devalues the dollar. that's what's been happening. if you read what ron paul has to say about all the issues on his site, you'll see that he's the most honest, level-headed, experienced candidate running for any party's nomination. if he doesn't run, i'll vote for romney. illegal aliens, huge federal spending, and the war are the 3 things destroying our economy. welfare doesn't help either as it keeps people poor. when fdr started the wpa which became welfare, people had to work for their hand-outs. they didn't just show up at some office and then receive a monthly check. this country is going to heck in a hand basket. we need some serious change. and we need the media to ask hard questions making the candidates tell us what all this "change" they're talking about is going to be. the federal government's job originally was to levy taxes to raise and keep an army so that we could be safe from foreign invasion. let's get back to that.

Last night's debate

Liz Rynkar, Long Island, NY — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 15:37:06 GMT

After viewing the Los Angeles debates, I have changed my opinion about the candidates, however I am not sure if that has come fairly or strictly because of the way the debates in general have been obscured towards certain candidates; i.e. Romney and McCain in this example.

Specifically regarding this debate, I agree with the blogger's mention, and many peoples' comments thereafter, that many news sources uncritically assume that McCain won, just because he is a bit ahead in the race, yet in the debate it seemed that he was not the one with most intelligent things to say. In a way Huckabee and Paul actually were the more critical speakers, because they were able to speak independently and did not seem so passionate about their own opinion. Huckabee in particular when asked about Iraq, did what all the debaters should have done, and spoke objectively about the whole matter, and more important realistically about it, while still enabling a tie into his own agenda.

Although the general opinion believes it will be McCain, I am really unsure right now about whom will turn out as the nominee for the Republican Party, but I do believe it will turn out to be an interesting ticket. These man all appear to be smart and capable to me but I think that some of them need more practice in being open-minded to others opinions, because, as President, they will need to listen and adhere to others' agendas on an almost daily basis.