First 2008 Presidential Debates
I know this is a TV blog, which you might expect to be lighthearted. For the most it will be, but it’s important to vote and to know what you are voting for. Last night was the first of three presidential debates before the November election. If you still haven’t registered to vote, shame on you, go to http://www.rockthevote.com/rtv_register.html. Do it today, you’ve only got a couple weeks left!
The debates are the time to hear what the candidates have to say first hand, without commentary from pundits or spin from journalists (as much as they try, there’s some there). You still have to muddle through the PR spin and political rhetoric, but this is the best you are going to get without being able to read the politicians’ minds.
Although this debate was theoretically about foreign policy, the candidates did their best to work in talking points on domestic policy. The talking points weren’t new: Obama spoke about tax benefits for American families, 8 years of Bush politics and how benefits for corporations won’t benefit the Joe and Jane Schmoe (I’m paraphrasing). McCain lamented public corruption and pork barrel spending. It was a bit ironic that in the midst of a billion dollar bailout negotiation, and in the wake of the bailouts of Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and AIG McCain insists on cutting back spending. If the American people have learned anything over the past couple of months, it’s that our representatives will spend on what they wanna spend money on.
The first 30 minutes of so centered on the economy and Jim Lehrer tried to instigate things as the moderator.
When the candidates finally got around to discussing foreign policy, they addressed the war in Iraq:
They discussed the conflict in Afghanistan
The candidates discussed the US relationship with Iran
They discussed our future with Russia
Finally, Jim Leher asked if we are safer after 9/11
Oh! I have my opinions, but I’m trying to remain semi-neutral. To find out who “won” the debates, click here. Mark your calendars for October 3, 2008 when Sarah Palin takes on Ron Paul.
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