I actually had the chance to watch some of this debate - it was quite interesting. Guiliani seemed strong and confident this time around, and the lightning thing was just plain freaky.

Immigration is going to be a difficult issue for both sides, though I do not think it will be decisive for most Americans. I think its important we have a national debate about the different ideas, but its a tough one for candidates on both sides. Tancredo seemed Xenophobic and like an old fashioned Nativists. He seems more like an old "Know-Nothing" candidate than a Republican.

I found the evolution discussion interesting; I thought we had settled that debate in the 1920s with the Scopes trial, but apparently not. I think Huckabee is turning that question into something it doesn't have to be - evolution and God do not have to be mutually exclusive.

I'm anxious to see how the "newbies" do when they join the race, which they need to do quickly if they want to be taken seriously and included in the debates.
Mike McKain | 06.06.07 - 8:29 am | #

I think Huckabee is turning that question into something it doesn't have to be - evolution and God do not have to be mutually exclusive.

He didn't say they were. I think he correctly assessed the question for what it was: a less controversial stand-in for "Do you believe in God?" in the same way the gays-in-the-military question was a stand-in for "What do you think about gay rights?"
Ryan S. | Homepage | 06.06.07 - 9:27 am | #

Again, I tend to disagree - the gays in the military question is a legitimate one to ask someone who wants to be commander in chief and will ultimately make the decision. The current policy is outdated and has driven lots of good people out of the service, especially much-needed translators. To their credit, the army at least has updated it to "Don't ask, don't tell, don't harass". However, the question is only something bigger if the politicians, in answering it, go beyond the scope of the question as they love to do.
Mike McKain | 06.06.07 - 10:57 am | #

Then why not ask either the Dems or the Repubs about gay marriage?
Ryan S. | Homepage | 06.06.07 - 1:21 pm | #

I don't see your point - I'm sure they will before the debates are over. I think we're going to see remarkably similiar answers unfortunatly, though some Democratic candidates at least are willing to concede Civil Unions now. I'd say more, but I don't want to turn this post into THAT debate, though it might be an idea if you run out in the future...
Mike McKain | 06.06.07 - 1:42 pm | #