Sunday, August 19, 2007
Clinton too polarizing?
The second question of the debate was if Senator Clinton would be too polarizing as the Democratic Party nominee. Obama was given the first shot to answer, as Clinton was on the subject of him. Obama said that the problems in Washington "predate the Bush Administration." The Senator contended that someone is needed to break out of the patterns of the last 20 years. This is a theme Obama has been expressing recently and positioning himself as a candidate that can bring change.
Senator Edwards used his time to bring up the role of lobbyists in government, calling on his Democratic collegues not to accept money from Federal lobbyists in the their campaign, Edwards pointed out Obama as someone who has done this and said lobbyists had too much influence over policy and candidates.
Clinton said that "We know how to win" and said that she could face the "Republican attack machine" since she has so many times in the past.
Edwards again pressed the lobbyist issue, saying that there was no universal health care because insurance companies, drug companies and their lobbyists. He said "You have to take these people on and beat them" and they can't be negotiated with.
Congressman Kucinich got in his first word at around 25 minutes, talking about his health care proposals in Congress.
Senator Edwards used his time to bring up the role of lobbyists in government, calling on his Democratic collegues not to accept money from Federal lobbyists in the their campaign, Edwards pointed out Obama as someone who has done this and said lobbyists had too much influence over policy and candidates.
Clinton said that "We know how to win" and said that she could face the "Republican attack machine" since she has so many times in the past.
Edwards again pressed the lobbyist issue, saying that there was no universal health care because insurance companies, drug companies and their lobbyists. He said "You have to take these people on and beat them" and they can't be negotiated with.
Congressman Kucinich got in his first word at around 25 minutes, talking about his health care proposals in Congress.
Bumper Cars
After reading the poll results the first question was posed if Senator Obama was experienced enough to be president.
Senator Clinton said, "I'm running on my own qualifications and experiences" and "It's up to the voters." Clinton also used her time to once again bring up her disagreement with Obama on the issue of meeting with enemies of "rouge nations."
Senator Dodd picked on Obama's comment about strikes in Pakistan targeting terrorist targets if there is actionable intelligence, even without the blessing of Pakistan. Dodd said it was irresponsible to engage in that kind of language and said that he would be ready to lead from day one.
Biden called Obama "a wonderful guy" and used his time to criticized there being no Pakistan policy, but a Musharraf policy. Biden also pulled out the line on no time for on the job training.
Richardson had a crafty response, saying that he is the candidate of "change and experience."
The pressure of the first few minutes was on Senator Obama and his capabilities, before he got his chance to respond with one of the best recieved lines of the day, "Well, you know, to prepare for this debate I rode the bumper cars at the State Fair." Obama used the moment not only to look like a frontrunner, by having so much attention given to him, but also did not back down on his positions.
"I think strong conutries and strong presidents meet with their adversaries."
"We shouldn't have strategic ambiguity with the American people."
Senator Edwards said that is was shocking that the people who have been in Washington so long were attacking Obama.
Senator Clinton said, "I'm running on my own qualifications and experiences" and "It's up to the voters." Clinton also used her time to once again bring up her disagreement with Obama on the issue of meeting with enemies of "rouge nations."
Senator Dodd picked on Obama's comment about strikes in Pakistan targeting terrorist targets if there is actionable intelligence, even without the blessing of Pakistan. Dodd said it was irresponsible to engage in that kind of language and said that he would be ready to lead from day one.
Biden called Obama "a wonderful guy" and used his time to criticized there being no Pakistan policy, but a Musharraf policy. Biden also pulled out the line on no time for on the job training.
Richardson had a crafty response, saying that he is the candidate of "change and experience."
The pressure of the first few minutes was on Senator Obama and his capabilities, before he got his chance to respond with one of the best recieved lines of the day, "Well, you know, to prepare for this debate I rode the bumper cars at the State Fair." Obama used the moment not only to look like a frontrunner, by having so much attention given to him, but also did not back down on his positions.
"I think strong conutries and strong presidents meet with their adversaries."
"We shouldn't have strategic ambiguity with the American people."
Senator Edwards said that is was shocking that the people who have been in Washington so long were attacking Obama.
Candidates take the stage, where was Clinton?
The candidates were brought to the stage before the debate to test the microphones and get video shots, but absent from the parade of candidates was Senator Hillary Clinton who did not enter Sheslow Auditorium for several minutes this morning for the Iowa Debates hosted by ABC, the Iowa Democratic Party, and Drake University.
Still no word on why she was delayed, but it was certainly a large question amongst those in the crowd.
The order of the candidates on stage left to right was Congressman Kucinich (OH), Senator Obama (IL), Senator Biden (DE), Governor Richardson (NM), frm. Senator Gravel (AK), frm. Senator Edwards (NC), Senator Dodd (CT), and Senator Clinton (NY).
The debate started as the GOP debate did with the reading of a poll results from ABC and the Washington Post. The polling was conducted between July 26-31, so its not exactly the most current data. Below are the numbers:
Barack Obama 27
Hillary Clinton 26
John Edwards 26
Bill Richardson 11
Joe Biden 2
Dennis Kucinich 2
Chris Dodd 1
None of these (vol.) 2
No opinion 4
The poll shows and Obama lead, but this poll does not seem too similar to much of the polling of the Iowa race which has shown him in 3rd place and around 15-18 in the polls.
Senator Gravel did not register in the poll...
Still no word on why she was delayed, but it was certainly a large question amongst those in the crowd.
The order of the candidates on stage left to right was Congressman Kucinich (OH), Senator Obama (IL), Senator Biden (DE), Governor Richardson (NM), frm. Senator Gravel (AK), frm. Senator Edwards (NC), Senator Dodd (CT), and Senator Clinton (NY).
The debate started as the GOP debate did with the reading of a poll results from ABC and the Washington Post. The polling was conducted between July 26-31, so its not exactly the most current data. Below are the numbers:
Barack Obama 27
Hillary Clinton 26
John Edwards 26
Bill Richardson 11
Joe Biden 2
Dennis Kucinich 2
Chris Dodd 1
None of these (vol.) 2
No opinion 4
The poll shows and Obama lead, but this poll does not seem too similar to much of the polling of the Iowa race which has shown him in 3rd place and around 15-18 in the polls.
Senator Gravel did not register in the poll...
Back from the debate, spin room, and receptions
Hey all!
I just got back home from the debate and other related activities. I will give you a write up soon, but right now I am off to an event with frm. Senator Mike Gravel and students on campus.
Right now I'll leave you with the ABC coverage of the debate in the link.
Check back later this afternoon or evening for more posts.
I just got back home from the debate and other related activities. I will give you a write up soon, but right now I am off to an event with frm. Senator Mike Gravel and students on campus.
Right now I'll leave you with the ABC coverage of the debate in the link.
Check back later this afternoon or evening for more posts.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Candidates at the Fair
This week I was able to meet three candidates at the State Fair after they spoke to crowds at The Des Moines Register's Soap Box. On Tuesday I arrived to hear the Q&A of Senator McCain's time. He addressed a question on reducing the size of the U.S.'s nuclear force, he did not give a definate answer either way, but did say that he would not do what Senator Obama has said, to take nuclear weapons off the table in fighting terrorists.
The Last question on was on immigration. An interesting question always following the failure of the bi-partisan immigration compromise pushed so hard by McCain failed in the Congress. McCain did not go too deep in his answer, but did conclude that the border must protected and the current laws enforced.
While McCain was leaving (pretty quickly) I was able to get in one quick and goofy photo with him. He thought the camera was somewhere else and I was very worried about someone passing through the frame. Can't win them all.
I didn't see Governor Richardson speak, but caught him at the Iowa Democratic Party booth for a quick autograph one of his awesome baseball cards.
Yesterday I went to the Fair to see frm. Senator Fred Thompson speak. Thompson has been in a "testing the waters" phase for a few months now and is finally expected to announce his official candidacy for the GOP nomination on September 5th. Thompson arrived early to the Soap Box, just around 1:00 for his 1:20 scheduled time. The amount of cameras around him was amazing. There were around 8 or 9 video cameras next to me, one as far away as Germany (I found out when the cameraman got a little pushy for space next to me). Still photographers were in no means limited. Thompson used the first half of his time to talk about his background as the son of former farmers and making his way through college and law school, serving as a prosecuter, his way into acting, and running for the Senate to fill the seat of Al Gore.
Thompson positioned himself as a "citizen" politician, placing term limits on himself (only serving one full Senate term). He spoke of a few main themes; the cost and effort needed to fight radical terrorism, making government more efficient, and not apologizing America which has spilled more blood for freedom then any other nation.
Thompson took no questions opposed to some of the other candidates. It was good to get to see him in Iowa since his possibly candidacy has been spoken of since early this year. I am now one candidate away from seeing every candidate in the field on both sides and that will be completed with seeing frm. Senator Gravel this Sunday. Below is another photo of me with the candidates, catching Thompson after seeing the big boar.
The Last question on was on immigration. An interesting question always following the failure of the bi-partisan immigration compromise pushed so hard by McCain failed in the Congress. McCain did not go too deep in his answer, but did conclude that the border must protected and the current laws enforced.
While McCain was leaving (pretty quickly) I was able to get in one quick and goofy photo with him. He thought the camera was somewhere else and I was very worried about someone passing through the frame. Can't win them all.
I didn't see Governor Richardson speak, but caught him at the Iowa Democratic Party booth for a quick autograph one of his awesome baseball cards.
Yesterday I went to the Fair to see frm. Senator Fred Thompson speak. Thompson has been in a "testing the waters" phase for a few months now and is finally expected to announce his official candidacy for the GOP nomination on September 5th. Thompson arrived early to the Soap Box, just around 1:00 for his 1:20 scheduled time. The amount of cameras around him was amazing. There were around 8 or 9 video cameras next to me, one as far away as Germany (I found out when the cameraman got a little pushy for space next to me). Still photographers were in no means limited. Thompson used the first half of his time to talk about his background as the son of former farmers and making his way through college and law school, serving as a prosecuter, his way into acting, and running for the Senate to fill the seat of Al Gore.
Thompson positioned himself as a "citizen" politician, placing term limits on himself (only serving one full Senate term). He spoke of a few main themes; the cost and effort needed to fight radical terrorism, making government more efficient, and not apologizing America which has spilled more blood for freedom then any other nation.
Thompson took no questions opposed to some of the other candidates. It was good to get to see him in Iowa since his possibly candidacy has been spoken of since early this year. I am now one candidate away from seeing every candidate in the field on both sides and that will be completed with seeing frm. Senator Gravel this Sunday. Below is another photo of me with the candidates, catching Thompson after seeing the big boar.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Straw Poll in photos
Senator Brownback had one of the two rock climbing walls on Saturday.
Frm. Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson shakes hands with a supporter outside of his tent. Thompson ended his presidential bid after finishing 6th on Saturday. He said he had to come in first or second to continue.
Governor Romney on the big screen.
Governor Huckabee gets a word in between songs. He played bass with his band Capitol Offense after giving his speech inside.
Me with Congressman Ron Paul before he left the Straw Poll.
A day at the Straw Poll
I arrived in Ames with my professor and advisor Dr. Rachel Caufield around 11:00 on Saturday. We arrived on Campus with an interesting mixture of Ron Paul supporters, anti-war signs, and people doing visibility. Frm. Governor Mitt Romney deployed a group of golfcarts to shuttle people the sometimes big distance to the activities.
After a lengthy walk, we reached Hilton where the candidates had their tents. It was overwhelming at first to come to the large setups of Senator Brownback (KS) and Governor Romney, who had large food serving operations, legions of volunteers, inflatibles and rock climbing walls for kids, and live music. The other side of the arena was more subdued, where the lesser known candidates set up shop; again offering food and entertainment. I was fed by Huckabee (Amazing Arkansas watermelon), Brownback and Thompson (gave me some chips and cookies), and interest groups like ED in 08 provided water and ice cream to keep me going through the very hot day. The atmosphere is something that is unmatched, candidates and major figures walking and talking with the masses, entertainment and free food, and campaign workers trying to make sure you cast your ballot for their guy. What a way to do politics!
Inside the arean I was able to see every candidate speak. The order was Romeny, Tancredo, Cox, Paul, Huckabee, Hunter, T. Thompson, and Brownback. When I first got inside there was probaly around 7000-8000 or more people in the seats watching the candidates being introduced. A large number of attendees were wearing yellow "Team Mitt" shirts. Each candidate was given 15 minutes to speak, while their supporters where brought to the floor before the speech (a process that went surprising smooth for the number of people). One interesting occurance was when the Ron Paul supporters entered with their singnature chanting parades (Question:"Who do we call?" Crowd Response "Ron Paul!") the emcee Laura Ingraham's introduction could not be well heard, causing her to remark, "The inmates have left the asylum."
I won't go into the speeches but here is link to some highlights from the Register. Some of the lines that stood out most for me were Romeny's saying change in Washington begins in Iowa, since it seems as a way to put some distance between him and Bush. Huckabee made a shot a Romney and Brownback's Straw Poll spending with this: "Let me say it very clear today. I'm not the best-funded candidate in America, I can't buy you. I don't have the money. I can't even rent you."
After a little more observing, picking up literature, and eating I was able to cast a ballot. There was high security before voting, a Iowa photo ID was needed and each person had to ink their finger so they could only vote once. By 5:00, we called it a day and headed back to Des Moines to await the results. The results of course were delayed due to voting machine problems for more than an hour and half after the expected announcement time of 7:00 PM. I was on the edge of seat at home waiting for results.
Here they are:
1. Mitt Romney 4,516 31.6%
2. Mike Huckabee 2,587 18.1%
3. Sam Brownback 2,192 15.3%
4. Tom Tancredo 1,960 13.7%
5. Ron Paul 1,305 9.1%
6. Tommy Thompson 1,039 7.3%
7. Fred Thompson 203 1.4%
8. Rudy Giuliani 183 1.3%
9. Duncan Hunter 174 1.2%
10. John McCain 101 0.7%
11. John Cox 41 0.3%
Obviously a big day for Romney as he cements his lead in Iowa with this win and leading in the polls. But the biggest story so far has been the surprise finish of Governor Huckabee who was outspent by Romney and Brownback (and possibly others) in preparing for the Straw Poll. Huckabee now has a chance to get the support of social conservatives that he and Brownback were both competing for and a chance to appeal for more fundraising dollars nationally. Romney has to also defend his win in the face of lower turnout this year over 1999 and three big contenders sitting the contest out.
It was a great day, one that I was looking forward to since the beginning of the year. Above I will post a few photos from the event. Hope you enjoy.
After a lengthy walk, we reached Hilton where the candidates had their tents. It was overwhelming at first to come to the large setups of Senator Brownback (KS) and Governor Romney, who had large food serving operations, legions of volunteers, inflatibles and rock climbing walls for kids, and live music. The other side of the arena was more subdued, where the lesser known candidates set up shop; again offering food and entertainment. I was fed by Huckabee (Amazing Arkansas watermelon), Brownback and Thompson (gave me some chips and cookies), and interest groups like ED in 08 provided water and ice cream to keep me going through the very hot day. The atmosphere is something that is unmatched, candidates and major figures walking and talking with the masses, entertainment and free food, and campaign workers trying to make sure you cast your ballot for their guy. What a way to do politics!
Inside the arean I was able to see every candidate speak. The order was Romeny, Tancredo, Cox, Paul, Huckabee, Hunter, T. Thompson, and Brownback. When I first got inside there was probaly around 7000-8000 or more people in the seats watching the candidates being introduced. A large number of attendees were wearing yellow "Team Mitt" shirts. Each candidate was given 15 minutes to speak, while their supporters where brought to the floor before the speech (a process that went surprising smooth for the number of people). One interesting occurance was when the Ron Paul supporters entered with their singnature chanting parades (Question:"Who do we call?" Crowd Response "Ron Paul!") the emcee Laura Ingraham's introduction could not be well heard, causing her to remark, "The inmates have left the asylum."
I won't go into the speeches but here is link to some highlights from the Register. Some of the lines that stood out most for me were Romeny's saying change in Washington begins in Iowa, since it seems as a way to put some distance between him and Bush. Huckabee made a shot a Romney and Brownback's Straw Poll spending with this: "Let me say it very clear today. I'm not the best-funded candidate in America, I can't buy you. I don't have the money. I can't even rent you."
After a little more observing, picking up literature, and eating I was able to cast a ballot. There was high security before voting, a Iowa photo ID was needed and each person had to ink their finger so they could only vote once. By 5:00, we called it a day and headed back to Des Moines to await the results. The results of course were delayed due to voting machine problems for more than an hour and half after the expected announcement time of 7:00 PM. I was on the edge of seat at home waiting for results.
Here they are:
1. Mitt Romney 4,516 31.6%
2. Mike Huckabee 2,587 18.1%
3. Sam Brownback 2,192 15.3%
4. Tom Tancredo 1,960 13.7%
5. Ron Paul 1,305 9.1%
6. Tommy Thompson 1,039 7.3%
7. Fred Thompson 203 1.4%
8. Rudy Giuliani 183 1.3%
9. Duncan Hunter 174 1.2%
10. John McCain 101 0.7%
11. John Cox 41 0.3%
Obviously a big day for Romney as he cements his lead in Iowa with this win and leading in the polls. But the biggest story so far has been the surprise finish of Governor Huckabee who was outspent by Romney and Brownback (and possibly others) in preparing for the Straw Poll. Huckabee now has a chance to get the support of social conservatives that he and Brownback were both competing for and a chance to appeal for more fundraising dollars nationally. Romney has to also defend his win in the face of lower turnout this year over 1999 and three big contenders sitting the contest out.
It was a great day, one that I was looking forward to since the beginning of the year. Above I will post a few photos from the event. Hope you enjoy.
Huckabee in West Des Moines
I had a chance to see frm. Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas on Wednesday, just a few days before the Republican Straw Poll on Ames. The event was held at the West Des Moines School Districts' Learning Resource Center. About 50 were in attendence to hear Huckabee speak while the rain poured down outside.
The Governor was traveling with is wife Cindy and with 2006 Lt. Governor nominee Bob Vander Plaats (Huckabee's state chairman).
Huckabee used the event to pick up a theme stressed at the Drake Debate, that he represents Main Street, not Wall Street, and his ability to connect with normal people is something that other GOP candidates could have a more difficult time with.
Also brought up was a recent attack ad aired by the conservative economic group Club For Growth. Huckabee speculated that he must be doing well if an outside group from Washington D.C. was attacking him. He did not specifically refute any of the claims of the ad.
Aside from stressing the importance of strong finish at the Straw Poll, Huckabee talked about his pro-life position as something that he wouldn't compromise on as president.
The event lasted about an hour, Huckabee shook all hands before speaking and had to rush to Ames for another event after taking questions on AIDS relief, immigration, and gas taxes. Huckabee always comes off as a likeable and genuine guy and it was interesting to see him action before the Straw Poll.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Post debate: Rudy falls and Brownback/Romney make-up?
That ends ABC's The Iowa Debates. The hour and half went very quickly. It was a great experience to see all the candidates before the Straw Poll next week, when who knows how many of them will stay in the race following the results.
After the debate in the course of waving to the cameras/crowd and hand shaking, Mayor Giuliani took a little stumble off the stage and into the moderators desk. Turned heads accompanied the loud noise, but the Mayor was all smiles and unharmed. There were quite a few "Rudy fell" comments made through the auditorium.
Mitt and Ann Romney spoke with Senator Browback and his wife on the stage. Apparently even after the fighting over the phone calls the candidates and spouses shared a few tales and laughs.
Well folks, I'm off. Thanks for reading, you can see all my other posts below, you may have to go to the next page to see the rest. Hopefully I will be back to write-up the Democratic debate hosted by Drake and ABC on the 19th and the GOP Straw Poll in Ames next Saturday. I may have a few more post in the next day or two to link to other sources of coverage.
Until then, all my best,
Jordan
After the debate in the course of waving to the cameras/crowd and hand shaking, Mayor Giuliani took a little stumble off the stage and into the moderators desk. Turned heads accompanied the loud noise, but the Mayor was all smiles and unharmed. There were quite a few "Rudy fell" comments made through the auditorium.
Mitt and Ann Romney spoke with Senator Browback and his wife on the stage. Apparently even after the fighting over the phone calls the candidates and spouses shared a few tales and laughs.
Well folks, I'm off. Thanks for reading, you can see all my other posts below, you may have to go to the next page to see the rest. Hopefully I will be back to write-up the Democratic debate hosted by Drake and ABC on the 19th and the GOP Straw Poll in Ames next Saturday. I may have a few more post in the next day or two to link to other sources of coverage.
Until then, all my best,
Jordan
Restoration
The candidates were asked what they would restore to the White House if elected in 2008. The question was asked left to right.
Rep. Tancredo said, "Hope." Adding supporting the "ideas of Western Civilization" and saying that "We can no longer afford political correctness."
Gov. Thompson would open the White House, saying "East Wing" instead of West to the best minds to move forward. He joined the Thompson train too, railing against rampant politcal correctness.
Sen. Brownback wanted to restore the family. And hoped to appoint a justice to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Sen. McCain used the time to say that he was the most qualifed for the office with 50 years experience in military and government. He also said he was strongest in fighting Islamist terrorism.
Mayor Giulani too said he would bring hope. He said that since he had executive experience he was well prepared, directly pointing out Senator McCain as well as the top three Democratic contenders.
Gov. Romney kept with his campaign theme of "STRONG." Calling for "Strong military, strong economy, and strong American families."
Gov. Huckabee said that he would never forget to the people who are the real boss, regular Americans. He said that he can connect with mainstreet Americans perhaps better than any GOP candidate.
Rep. Paul called for a return to open government. Promising he wouldn't use executive privilege to keep information from Congress.
Rep. Hunter called for a sense "Economic Patriotism" to strenghten the country.
Rep. Tancredo said, "Hope." Adding supporting the "ideas of Western Civilization" and saying that "We can no longer afford political correctness."
Gov. Thompson would open the White House, saying "East Wing" instead of West to the best minds to move forward. He joined the Thompson train too, railing against rampant politcal correctness.
Sen. Brownback wanted to restore the family. And hoped to appoint a justice to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Sen. McCain used the time to say that he was the most qualifed for the office with 50 years experience in military and government. He also said he was strongest in fighting Islamist terrorism.
Mayor Giulani too said he would bring hope. He said that since he had executive experience he was well prepared, directly pointing out Senator McCain as well as the top three Democratic contenders.
Gov. Romney kept with his campaign theme of "STRONG." Calling for "Strong military, strong economy, and strong American families."
Gov. Huckabee said that he would never forget to the people who are the real boss, regular Americans. He said that he can connect with mainstreet Americans perhaps better than any GOP candidate.
Rep. Paul called for a return to open government. Promising he wouldn't use executive privilege to keep information from Congress.
Rep. Hunter called for a sense "Economic Patriotism" to strenghten the country.
Issue: Taxes
The question of if the U.S. should switch to a so-called Fair Tax was asked of the candidates. The Fair Tax would do away with the IRS in favor of a national retail sales tax.
Huckabee said he would "absolutely support" the tax and said that "getting mugged is more painless than an audit by the IRS" to Americans.
Huckabee and Romney got into a small scuffle over the issue. Romney said the truth is that we are going to have to pay taxes." He said he didn't see the Fair Tax as the best way to change the system.
Mayor Giuliani too was skeptical of it, questioning "Who is going to administer the sales tax?" and look out for exemptions."
Congressman Tancredo said that the income tax allows the government to manipulate behavior and recommened the Gov. Romney read two suggested books to change his mind, Romney said he already had and was unmoved.
Senator Brownback supports and "optional flat-tax" in which people can choose which kind of to pay. He also claimed it would lead to economic growth.
Huckabee said he would "absolutely support" the tax and said that "getting mugged is more painless than an audit by the IRS" to Americans.
Huckabee and Romney got into a small scuffle over the issue. Romney said the truth is that we are going to have to pay taxes." He said he didn't see the Fair Tax as the best way to change the system.
Mayor Giuliani too was skeptical of it, questioning "Who is going to administer the sales tax?" and look out for exemptions."
Congressman Tancredo said that the income tax allows the government to manipulate behavior and recommened the Gov. Romney read two suggested books to change his mind, Romney said he already had and was unmoved.
Senator Brownback supports and "optional flat-tax" in which people can choose which kind of to pay. He also claimed it would lead to economic growth.
Senator Graham siting
Senator Lindsay Graham of South Carolina was sitting a seat behind Ann Romney at the debate. Graham has been a McCain ally in the Senate and in the campaign. I first noticed Graham when the question of what power the Office of the Vice President should have. The man sitting behind Graham (the local ABC anchor) grabbed Graham by the shoulder during the question, as some refer to him as "Vice President Graham" to possible President McCain.
McCain said that he would make sure that there would be no mistaking who was president in his administration, when talking about the relationship of President Bush and Vice President Cheney.
McCain said that he would make sure that there would be no mistaking who was president in his administration, when talking about the relationship of President Bush and Vice President Cheney.
Deterrents
Congressman Tancredo was asked about his statement earlier this week about bombing the Muslim holy site of Mecca and Medina in order to prevent future terror attacks on America. Tancredo said no options could be taken off the table and the bombing of the sites would be a deterrent to attacks. Tancredo said his idea may be a good one since the State Department disagreed with it, a comment which generated applause.
Governor Thompson disagreed, calling the plan a bad idea. Saying there would be no better way to unify one billion Muslims against the U.S..
Governor Thompson disagreed, calling the plan a bad idea. Saying there would be no better way to unify one billion Muslims against the U.S..
Democracy on the march
The candidates were asked to speak of President Bush's Second Inauguration Address in which he called for a spread of democracy around the world.
Rep. Paul said it was wrong for values to be spread by force.
Governor Huckabee said, "I don't think it is the job of the United States to export out form of government." Huckabee claimed that the number one objective is to secure the borders and provide for national defense. He also called for money being spent overseas to be spent in the U.S..
McCain, Giuliani, and Romney all agreed that elections don't equal instantly democracy. Giuliani said that security and stability is a must. Romney expanded and said that health care and education were staples to a strong democracy.
Rep. Paul said it was wrong for values to be spread by force.
Governor Huckabee said, "I don't think it is the job of the United States to export out form of government." Huckabee claimed that the number one objective is to secure the borders and provide for national defense. He also called for money being spent overseas to be spent in the U.S..
McCain, Giuliani, and Romney all agreed that elections don't equal instantly democracy. Giuliani said that security and stability is a must. Romney expanded and said that health care and education were staples to a strong democracy.
Issue: Health Care
The message of the GOP candidates: Beware of socialized medicine.
All nine candidates said they would have voted/or did vote against legislation in Congress this week that will expand SCHIP (a federal children's health program) much larger than a White House recommendation. Republican Senator Chuck Grassely of Iowa has been fighting for an increase in the program.
Governors Thompson and Huckabee agreed that the health care system needs to focus on wellness and prevention, not disease. Huckabee said that the health care problem needs to be fixed totally. He compared the health care system to a boat taking on water and instead of plugging the hole, people look for a larger bucket to remove water.
Congressman Tancredo said that the federal government is not obligated in way to play a role in health care.
Governor Romney touted what was done in his state to require all to have health insurance. He said the system is not perfect, but it certainly works.
The overridding message of the candidates was to use market forces to lower costs, most all spoke of the perils of socializing medicine.
All nine candidates said they would have voted/or did vote against legislation in Congress this week that will expand SCHIP (a federal children's health program) much larger than a White House recommendation. Republican Senator Chuck Grassely of Iowa has been fighting for an increase in the program.
Governors Thompson and Huckabee agreed that the health care system needs to focus on wellness and prevention, not disease. Huckabee said that the health care problem needs to be fixed totally. He compared the health care system to a boat taking on water and instead of plugging the hole, people look for a larger bucket to remove water.
Congressman Tancredo said that the federal government is not obligated in way to play a role in health care.
Governor Romney touted what was done in his state to require all to have health insurance. He said the system is not perfect, but it certainly works.
The overridding message of the candidates was to use market forces to lower costs, most all spoke of the perils of socializing medicine.
Issue: Iraq
Congressman Ron Paul said of the Iraq war that it was time to "Just come home." He claimed that the war was illegal wasn't declared. He also said that "We're losing this one." Paul's answer was followed with cheers and boos from the crowd.
Congressman Hunter pointed to the Democrats as being in a "race to see who can stampede for the exit the quickest."
Governor Huckabee believes the war can still be won with and won with honor. He said that the Middle Eastern states must take a larger role in security and the U.S. needs to end its dependence on foreign oil without hestitating, "let's get it done, let's get it done now."
Senator Brownback called for a "political surge" to solve the nation's problems and promoted a 3-State solution in which three states would have local control and participate in a federal system.
Asked wether a failure to meet September benchmarks by the Iraqi government would still mean support for the surge, Senator McCain gave a strong "Of course," and said "We are winning, we must win."
Mayor Giuliani pointed out Democrats inability to call terrorism, "Islamic terrorism" and said their political correctness has gone too far.
Governor Romney agreed with Giuliani and McCain on the surge, calling their positions essentially the same. Romney went on to criticize recent statements by Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) on foreign policy. Romney has been the most agressive of the GOP candidates when it comes to criticizing the Democratic candidates.
Romney also called on Americans to show a "Surge of support."
Congressman Tancredo said that the Rules of Engagement in Iraq must be reviewed as they are "tying [soldiers] hands behind their backs" when they need to get the job done.
Governor Thompson shared his federalism plan for Iraq which includes splitting oil revenues among the Iraqi people and new states that would be formed.
Congressman Hunter pointed to the Democrats as being in a "race to see who can stampede for the exit the quickest."
Governor Huckabee believes the war can still be won with and won with honor. He said that the Middle Eastern states must take a larger role in security and the U.S. needs to end its dependence on foreign oil without hestitating, "let's get it done, let's get it done now."
Senator Brownback called for a "political surge" to solve the nation's problems and promoted a 3-State solution in which three states would have local control and participate in a federal system.
Asked wether a failure to meet September benchmarks by the Iraqi government would still mean support for the surge, Senator McCain gave a strong "Of course," and said "We are winning, we must win."
Mayor Giuliani pointed out Democrats inability to call terrorism, "Islamic terrorism" and said their political correctness has gone too far.
Governor Romney agreed with Giuliani and McCain on the surge, calling their positions essentially the same. Romney went on to criticize recent statements by Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) on foreign policy. Romney has been the most agressive of the GOP candidates when it comes to criticizing the Democratic candidates.
Romney also called on Americans to show a "Surge of support."
Congressman Tancredo said that the Rules of Engagement in Iraq must be reviewed as they are "tying [soldiers] hands behind their backs" when they need to get the job done.
Governor Thompson shared his federalism plan for Iraq which includes splitting oil revenues among the Iraqi people and new states that would be formed.
And they're off
Moderator George Stephhanopolis is joined by the Register's David Yepsen at a table in front of the stage.
The debate started quickly without opening remarks but with the reading of ABC polling results of the candidates in Iowa. Here is the link to the ABC article siting the newest numbers. The results were: Romney-26, Giuliani-14, Fred Thompson-13, Huckabee-8, McCain-8, Brownback-5, Tancredo-5, Tommy Thompson-4, Paul-2, Hunter-1.
The poll does show definate movement of Governor Huckabee who had 2% in the last ABC poll on July 26. The Governor has spent a great deal of time in the state over the last month. Senator McCain's lower numbers come after staff resignations at the top level of his national campaign and cutting in half the size of this Iowa operation.
The first question follows the airing of a segment of a Brownback auto-call accusing Governor Romney of changing his position on abortion and also pointing out a donation his wife made to Planned Parenthood.
Brownback defended the call saying, "One word describes that ad; truthful." Romney replied that "Virtually nothing in that ad is true" and "Virtually every part of that ad is innaccurate" and "just completely wrong." Romney claimed that he is pro-life and said one of the strongest statements of the debate, "I am tired of people who are holier than thou because they've been pro-life longer than I have." The attacks were also called "desperate" and "negative".
Romney admitted that the postion that he had held when he campaigned for Senate and later Governor was painfully different then the way he personally felt, and later in the debate admitted as a big mistake.
Governor Thompson said a pro-life Republican nominee could face trouble with the church and Republican voters.
The debate started quickly without opening remarks but with the reading of ABC polling results of the candidates in Iowa. Here is the link to the ABC article siting the newest numbers. The results were: Romney-26, Giuliani-14, Fred Thompson-13, Huckabee-8, McCain-8, Brownback-5, Tancredo-5, Tommy Thompson-4, Paul-2, Hunter-1.
The poll does show definate movement of Governor Huckabee who had 2% in the last ABC poll on July 26. The Governor has spent a great deal of time in the state over the last month. Senator McCain's lower numbers come after staff resignations at the top level of his national campaign and cutting in half the size of this Iowa operation.
The first question follows the airing of a segment of a Brownback auto-call accusing Governor Romney of changing his position on abortion and also pointing out a donation his wife made to Planned Parenthood.
Brownback defended the call saying, "One word describes that ad; truthful." Romney replied that "Virtually nothing in that ad is true" and "Virtually every part of that ad is innaccurate" and "just completely wrong." Romney claimed that he is pro-life and said one of the strongest statements of the debate, "I am tired of people who are holier than thou because they've been pro-life longer than I have." The attacks were also called "desperate" and "negative".
Romney admitted that the postion that he had held when he campaigned for Senate and later Governor was painfully different then the way he personally felt, and later in the debate admitted as a big mistake.
Governor Thompson said a pro-life Republican nominee could face trouble with the church and Republican voters.
The Order
The order of the candidates left to right on the stage of Sheslow Auditorium was Congressman Tom Tancredo (CO), frm. Governor Tommy Thompson (WI), Senator Sam Brownback (KS), Senator John McCain (AZ), frm. New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani (NY), frm. Governor Mitt Romney (MA), frm. Governor Mike Huckabee (AR), Congressman Ron Paul (TX), Congressman Duncan Hunter (CA).
Mayor Giuliani entered the auditorium to the biggest applause.
This debate was the first network debate of the 2008 cycle and the first ever Sunday morning Presidential candidate debate.
Before the candidates took the stage there were remarks from frm. IA Senate President Jeff Lamberti, an invocation by an Ames pastor, and a welcome by President David Maxwell of Drake.
After going through a microphone check many of candidates chatted with there neighbors. Gov. Thompson and Rep. Tancredo were noticibly silent during this time.
The debaters stood at blue podiums with white stars and upwards stripes as the morning rain cleared and sun shined through the stained-glass windows of Sheslow.
Mayor Giuliani entered the auditorium to the biggest applause.
This debate was the first network debate of the 2008 cycle and the first ever Sunday morning Presidential candidate debate.
Before the candidates took the stage there were remarks from frm. IA Senate President Jeff Lamberti, an invocation by an Ames pastor, and a welcome by President David Maxwell of Drake.
After going through a microphone check many of candidates chatted with there neighbors. Gov. Thompson and Rep. Tancredo were noticibly silent during this time.
The debaters stood at blue podiums with white stars and upwards stripes as the morning rain cleared and sun shined through the stained-glass windows of Sheslow.
Just home from the debate
Expect many posts very soon on the issues and happenings of today's ABC Iowa Debate between the nine Republican candidates.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Brownback asks McCain supporters for Straw Poll vote
CNN reports that Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS) is utilizing a team of 45 interns, a number of which contact indentified Senator John McCain (R-AZ) supporters in the state to convince them that the Senators' shared values should earn Brownback a vote in the Republican Party of Iowa's Straw Poll in Ames on August 11th.
One intern said this:
“Generally it goes well, but some people don’t go [to the straw poll] if their candidate isn’t going to be in it,” said MacBeth. “My job is basically to talk to McCain supporters…and sort of convince them, because McCain isnt particiapting, to support Brownback. They do share a lot of positions…pro-life, gay marriage, and victory in Iraq, and [I say to them] ‘Well, you may support McCain, so you might as well support Brownback in the straw poll.”
Senator McCain and frm. New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani both ruled out actively competing in the Straw Poll, which is seen as an early test of candidate organization in the state and often a winnower of the GOP field. Senator Brownback, along with frm. Governors Mike Huckabee (Arkansas) and Tommy Thompson (Wisconsin) see the Straw Poll as a possible make-or-break moment for their smaller campaigns.
It will be interesting to see if Brownback's method can work.
One intern said this:
“Generally it goes well, but some people don’t go [to the straw poll] if their candidate isn’t going to be in it,” said MacBeth. “My job is basically to talk to McCain supporters…and sort of convince them, because McCain isnt particiapting, to support Brownback. They do share a lot of positions…pro-life, gay marriage, and victory in Iraq, and [I say to them] ‘Well, you may support McCain, so you might as well support Brownback in the straw poll.”
Senator McCain and frm. New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani both ruled out actively competing in the Straw Poll, which is seen as an early test of candidate organization in the state and often a winnower of the GOP field. Senator Brownback, along with frm. Governors Mike Huckabee (Arkansas) and Tommy Thompson (Wisconsin) see the Straw Poll as a possible make-or-break moment for their smaller campaigns.
It will be interesting to see if Brownback's method can work.
Greetings
My name is Jordan Oster, I am entering my junior year at Drake University as a History and Politics double major. Drake has asked me to keep a blog of my experiences at the ABC debates at Drake and beyond; to the Straw Poll and other events at Drake and around Iowa.
I am currently a research assistant to Dr. Dennis Goldford and Dr. Rachel Paine Caufield of the Politics and International Relations Department on the Iowa Caucuses. I have been attending events around the state as early as 2005, as potential candidates and current candidates have mulled White House bids. This has allowed to me to see nearly every person running, many multiple times as they try to earn the support of Iowans.
I hope I can provide some insight from the home of the luckiest Politics majors in the nation, Drake University.
Best.
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