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The Iowa GOP Debate: “A little snappier, gentlemen!;” Update Fred Thompson’s not playing the “hand show;” Update: Aggghhh! The GOP candidates are all turning green; Update: Where’s the Hucka-pile-on?; Update: Keyes the hijacker; Update: New Year’s resolutions; bottom line: DUD.

By Michelle Malkin  •  December 12, 2007 01:49 PM

1marm002.jpg

Update 10:06pm Eastern. Okay, really, really last comment on the debate. Rudy tells FNC’s Carl Cameron that it was “unsatisfying.” That’s putting it politely.

Charles Krauthammer doesn’t mince words: “It’s the worst debate in Western history.”

And here’s the whole, insufferable transcript without snark added.

Update 8:49pm Eastern. Last comment on this debacle, I promise. You know what the forum was missing? That robot heckler. I would have loved to have seen Robot Heckler go head to head with Schoolmarm.

1robotguy003.jpg
***
Scroll down for updates. The Des Moines Register’s Carolyn Washburn (a.k.a. Schoolmarm) is the moderator of the debate. She’s no plant, but she sure is a stick in the mud. Her line of the debate so far: “A little snappier, gentlemen!” An hour into the debate, there’s no pile-on on Huckabee. There’s no time for one. Schoolmarm won’t allow it! She did, however, find time to show time-wasting videos of the candidates answering questions from Register reporters–even though the candidates are standing in front of her on the stage.

Congratulations, Schoolmarm: Washburn managed to suck all the life and color out of one of the most contested, exciting, unpredictable campaign fields in recent history. She stamped out any attempts between the candidates to engage each other. Not a single question on immigration.

I think, quite frankly, I preferred the plants!

Post-debate analysis on FOX: Fred Barnes chooses the Nurse Ratched analogy. Yes, I think that one fits. How many of you agree? Show of hands! Show of hands!

1ratched.jpg

Frank Luntz’s focus group raised its hands in support of Fred Thompson’s smackdown of Schoolmarm/Nurse Ratched (”It showed his strength/independence.”) Thanks to Allah for the vid:

Luntz says his group declared Romney the winner. Moderator was the loser. “Boring. Dull. Antagonistic. Hand-wringing.” Focus group members panned Huckabee. Luntz: “Not his finest moment.”

Outside Iowa, here are the latest poll numbers.

***
The show begins at 2pm. You’ll be able to tune in at the Des Moines Register website. I’ll liveblog anything noteworthy. Looks like it will be plant-free this time. There will, however, be several drag queens on stage.

Note: This is the last Republican debate before the Jan. 3 Iowa caucuses.

Another note: Alan Keyes managed to squeeze himself onto the stage. (Update: He’s hijacked the debate. Here’s video.)

Over at Hot Air, Allah ponders what Mitt should do and prints some advice for Huckabee from Dean Barnett.

***
Liveblogging the debates…

2:04pm Eastern. Intros are out of the way. Alan Keyes has lost a lot of weight.

First question: The country’s financial situation. Is the debt a threat to our national security? 30 seconds each.

Giuliani: I believe it’s a major problem. We have to reduce government spending. Not rehire nearly half of the civilian government work force. And reduce taxes. Debt is a threat to economic security.

Hunter: Trade loss is a threat to national security. Stop China from cheating on trade.

Moderator is already chastising candidates for exceeding 30 seconds. Geez. She asked them to explain why the debt is a threat to our national security. In 30 seconds. And she’s rapping their knuckles?

Paul: It’s absolutely a threat to our national security.

Tancredo: Gives an animated yes answer.

Thompson: Thompson talks Social Security reform.

Romney: Overspending and overpromises are challenges, but this is not a time to wring our hands. Good jobs, good schools, good health care. Doesn’t really answer the question.

Huckabee: It’s most certainly a national security threat. Who feeds us, who fuels us, who helps us to fight.

McCain: Of course any nation that has no economic strength will lose military strength. We have got to achieve energy independence.

Keyes: It’s obviously a security threat. Abolish income tax.

Second question: What sacrifices would you ask Americans to make to lower the national debt?

Giuliani: Leave more money in pockets of American people. Cut non-military spending across the board.

Paul: No need to sacrifice, Just Cut the Empire!!!!!

Huckabee: No need to sacrifice, Just Do Things Differently!!!!

Question:Are there any programs worth running a deficit for?

Romney: Proposes Gore-style streamlining of government.

Tancredo: Follow the Constitution. Don’t ask the government for womb-to-tomb protection.

Amen!

Thompson: Military, security of our people, our infrastructure, R&D. Obvious problem we’ve got to address: entitlements.

Question: Who in this country is paying more than their fair share of taxes? Wealthy. Middle-class. Poor. Corporations. 15 seconds.

Keyes: Goes off on elites. Upsets the schoolmarm moderator.

McCain: Reform the tax code.

Huckabee: Tax code is broken. I would adopt Fair Tax.

Romney: I don’t stay up at night worrying about taxes wealthy are paying. Worry about the middle-class.

2:21pm Eastern.

Moderator: A little snappier, gentlemen!

Thompson gets first laugh of the day with joke about his tax burden.

Tancredo: Move away from current system.

Paul: Lambastes regressive taxes.

Hunter: IRS overhead. Fair tax or flatter tax.

Giuliani: One page tax form. Give the death penalty to the death tax.

2:24pm Eastern. We now interrupt the debate for a “free statement” segment where candidates can say whatever they want. This is weird.

McCain makes security statement.

Hunter talks about the border fence.

Back to the lightning round format. Question: What’s your plan for keeping foreign markets open while protecting good-paying American jobs. Another reminder from Schoolmarm to keep it quick.

Paul: Look at the monetary system.

Romney: Renegotiate trade deals.

Question: Should we alter trade policies with countries that violate human rights?

McCain: We should reexamine. I am the biggest free marketer you will see. I would eliminate ethanol subsidies (good for McCain!). They distort markets and destroy our ability to compete.

Giuliani: NAFTA is a good thing.

Question: What changes would you make to NAFTA.

Thompson: I have nothing in particular to point out.

Tancredo: NAFTA has been a disaster, especially in Mexico. Problems with NAFTA? Our lack of sovereignty. Borders unchecked. Trucks coming across unchecked.

2:32pm Eastern. More “Free Statements.”

Paul: Constitution was supposed to restrain government, now it restrains the people.

Thompson: The important issue facing our country is national security. I know the world we live in and I know what we need to do.

Question: How many of you believe global climate change is a serious threat and caused by human activity?

Thompson objects to hand shows. (Applause).

The format blows up. Everyone’s talking. Anarchy! Yes! The schoolmarm’s feathers are ruffled.

McCain: I’ve been involved in this issue since 2000. I know that climate change is real.

Giuliani: I agree with John. It’s real and it’s because of humans. I think our party should embrace this.

Romney: Get off of foreign oil. You can help environment and economy. Is it an issue for the world? Absolutely. Let’s not have the rest of the world skate by, though. It’s global warming, not America warming.

Keyes: Who represents overlooked voices? Betrayal of sovereignty. Bashes elites. He’s maaaad. The schoolmarm is madder.

My position on global warming? Control the hot air of the politicians in Washington!

2:41pm Eastern. More “Free Statements.”

Tancredo talks immigration.

Huckabee talks about the Founding Fathers, man from Hope-style mini-speech.

Question: What educational standards do we need?

McCain talks choice, homeschooling and then he commends NYC.

Obviously he hasn’t heard of Fuzzy Math.

Giuliani: Parents should make choices and standards, not Washington. Competition.

Hunter cites Jaime Escalante’s success story and inspiration.

Rep. Hunter, meet the tyranny of Fuzzy Math.

Hunter lashes unions for running Escalante out of the public schools.

Romney supports No Child Left Behind.

Agh. Gov. Romney, meet the failures of NCLB.

Huckabee: Music and arts for all.

Keyes inserts himself into the debate. “I would like to address the education issue.” Schoolmarm gives Keyes 30 seconds. He wants a minute like everyone else. He talks about the removal of God from the public square. “We have a national creed. We need a moral education.” Keyes looks and sounds like he’s going to tear someone’s head off.

Question: What is the biggest obstacle to education?

Paul: The federal government is the biggest obstacle. Parents have to get control of education.

Thompson: Biggest obstacle is the National Education Association.

BINGO.

2:54pm Eastern. Tancredo takes on Huckabee on education…He points out that Huckabee says he wants no government intervention and at the same time crusades for music and arts in the schools. Tancredo: “That’s not the president’s role. If you want to do that, run for governor.” (Applause.)

Romney takes on Huckabee’s education record. Cites Massachusetts test scores.

2:57pm Eastern. Another dumb question. Schoolmarm asks what the candidates would accomplish in their first term. In 30 seconds. Candidates reiterate much of what they’ve already been saying.

3:01pm Eastern. Huckabee gives a mini-I’m a uniter, not a divider speech.

3:04pm Eastern. More “Free Statements.”

Romney gives a generic, student body president speech. Alan Keyes gets 30 seconds to growl and plug his website. Giuliani gives 9/11 leadership speech.

3:06pm Eastern. Question - Character and leadership.

Inexplicably, Schoolmarm is now showing video of the candidates answering questions from Register reporters.

Pssst: The candidates are on the stage. What a waste of time, precious time.

Question: How would you guarantee an open White House?

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.

3:13pm Eastern. More time-wasting videos.

3:22pm Eastern. Question - Please suggest a New Year’s resolution for one of your opponents. 15 seconds.

McCain: Let’s raise the level of discourse and debate in the campaign. Let’s all be respectful.

Huckabee: I’ll be a lot more careful of everything I say. And them, too.

Romney. We’ll come together when this is resolved.

Thompson: Be strong. Be a better man and husband.

Tancredo: Tancredo confronts Huckabee. How are you going to convince Americans that you have in fact changed your mind about immigration?

Hunter: Buy American goods.

Giuliani: Realize how lucky we are.

3:25pm Eastern. Schoolmarm: “We are out of time!”

She’s been saying that since the beginning of the debate.

***

Extra-curricular activities: Huckabee apologizes to Romney after the debate. Wouldn’t an apology during the debate–maybe during his “Free Statement”–have demonstrated better character?

Posted in: 2008 campaign, GOP

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  4. Democrat Moderated GOP Debate in Iowa « The Tennessee ConserVOLiance
  5. Maryland for Fred Thompson » Blog Archive » Video: No Hand Shows
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  27. December, 2007 Archive « Right Minded Online

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Comments

Comment pages: [1] 2 »

  1. #1
    On December 12th, 2007 at 1:51 pm, TexasTiger said:

    Looks like it will be plant-free this time.

    Where will Anderson Cooper be? Out in a cornfield?

  2. #2
    On December 12th, 2007 at 1:56 pm, steveegg said:

    I don’t know about that; those plants are very frost-resistant.

  3. #3
    On December 12th, 2007 at 1:57 pm, TexasTiger said:

    If you plant them, I will come. If you plant them, I will come.

  4. #4
    On December 12th, 2007 at 1:57 pm, ajmontana said:

    ice plant.

  5. #5
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:06 pm, DesertLover said:

    good one AJ … but there’s lots more ice further south right now …

  6. #6
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:11 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    *hands Michelle a coffee and some No-Doze.

  7. #7
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:14 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    John Paul just called us an impire - LOL

  8. #8
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:14 pm, Michelle Malkin said:

    *hands Michelle a coffee and some No-Doze.

    Thanks, it’s definitely needed.

  9. #9
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:19 pm, Rogue said:

    Place is being swarmed by Paulians. Apparently Paulians believe in their version of the Constitution…aka, mob rule.

  10. #10
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:21 pm, DesertLover said:

    Michelle probably also needs a “snooze alarm” …

  11. #11
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:23 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Oh, WOW. Fix the tax code. That is just a talking point. The IRS will NEVER go away!

    Imagine a simple tax. Everyone pays 12%. Take it out of your check and you are done - no need for the IRS.

    THAT WILL HAPPEN - NOT

  12. #12
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:24 pm, DesertLover said:

    Soap … I’ve said that here before with the caveat that those below poverty level are the only ones that get anything back …

    But like you realized it would put too many IRS workers on the street … so won’t happen …

  13. #13
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:25 pm, John Ansell said:

    Tooth picks work fine. Just prop open the eyelids and learn to nod every now and then.

  14. #14
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:26 pm, MrVIBEMAN said:

    I don’t understand why people put so much faith and trust in the Iowa caucus results.

    Some past results have been very accurate, while others have been so far off the mark it’s rediculous.

    Who remembers Tom Harkin in 1992? He took 76% in the Democratic Iowa caucus.

    In 1988 Bob Dole and Pat Robertson BOTH beat Bush Sr. in the Iowa caucus.

    No matter the results, it’s still a looongggg way to the General Election.

  15. #15
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:26 pm, mngirl said:

    OK I’m watching this debate and I have a huge problem with the moderator. Her opening statement said this debate will be about issues important to Iowans. It will not be about Iraq or Illegal Immigration.

    You cannot tell me illegal immigration is not important to Iowans, what hole does she live in?!

  16. #16
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:26 pm, 30 pcs of silver said:

    Hunter ‘08!

    “Hunter: Trade loss is a threat to national security. Stop China from cheating on trade.”

    Need I say more?

  17. #17
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:27 pm, maables said:

    Any ideas why Hunter doesn’t have much support? It seems like he is tough on immigration and WOT.

  18. #18
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:29 pm, DesertLover said:

    MrVIBEMAN

    All the more reason we need a single national prmary day in about mid-March … leaves time for the political conventions and the campaigning and no single state gets an undue influence on the selection process …

  19. #19
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:29 pm, mngirl said:

    Now Iowans care more about Human Rights abuses in other -trading partner- nations than Illegal Immigration?

    Only a Newspaper Editor could dream this up.

  20. #20
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:35 pm, 30 pcs of silver said:

    I honestly wish I did know why he isn’t getting more play. Maybe someone else can weigh-in?

    I like him alot he is strong on all of the key issues as far as I am concerned.

    When Republicans talk about RINOs, Hunter doesn’t come to mind. I think support for him will grow. He is getting exposure so we’ll see what happens…it’s still early.

  21. #21
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:37 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Global warming show of hands:

    Soap raises his hand with one finger pointed high (center one if you are wondering).

  22. #22
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:37 pm, Yashmak said:

    I really like Hunter too. I don’t clearly understand his failure to do better so far.

    I note that Ron Paul showed up, keeping the myth of his popularity alive.

  23. #23
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:37 pm, 30 pcs of silver said:

    How many of you guys believe Global warming is real - by a show of hands?

    What is this a presidential debate or third grade?

  24. #24
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:37 pm, 30 pcs of silver said:

    Soap, you beat me to it. ;-)

  25. #25
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:37 pm, maables said:

    I was really impressed with Hunter during the CNN/YouTube debate and just couldn’t figure out why he isn’t talked about more. Living in Texas .. the border fence is something I’m interested in hearing more about.

  26. #26
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:46 pm, 30 pcs of silver said:

    I learned of him for the 1st time while watching the Glen Beck show. He had Hunter on for a full hour and I got to hear his stance on all of the issues and he blew my mind. This guy is the real deal. I’m keeping my eyes peeled to him.

    I should say that regardless, I’ll vote for whoever wins the nomination but I pray it’s him.

  27. #27
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:47 pm, Melvin_Udall said:

    Thompson’s leadership moment

    That show of hands response and the following refusal to answer without being given time was true leadership. Everyone else on that stage fought to catch up a second or two after.

    Well done Mr. Thompson.

    What Republicans need most is a leader who talks straight and will not take others setting the rules of the game. Obviously we need a conservative, which he is. But Republicans are under siege from the press and hysterical Democrats, and a milquetoast, soft spoken leader serves us no good.

  28. #28
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:49 pm, mnmike said:

    If this is a debate? I’d rather see no stupid moderator and let the candidates go after each other.

  29. #29
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:50 pm, mnmike said:

    Ron Paul is a major goof.

  30. #30
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:52 pm, 30 pcs of silver said:

    Who is Alan Keyes?

  31. #31
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:53 pm, mnmike said:

    Romney is all hat and no cattle. To wit, he cites problems and says we ought to make it better….sheesh

    Suit where is body?

  32. #32
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:53 pm, ajmontana said:

    there in his pocket, oh, who? sorry.

  33. #33
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:56 pm, NBF said:

    Michelle,

    Could blog on Hunter versus Tancredo versus Thompson?

    It feels like we’re wasting so much time making fun of the RINO triplets, we’re not getting a good look at who the conservatives are.

  34. #34
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:56 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Rudy:

    9/11 9/11 9/11

    GEEEEEEZZZZZZ

  35. #35
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:59 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Free border control agents - WOOOHOOO!

  36. #36
    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:59 pm, DesertLover said:

    I think the questions everyone here is asking about what is supposedly important to the Iowa voters illustrates what I was referring to in my post #18 …

    Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina by no means have 100% of the same priorities and concerns as the remaining 47 states … and those remaining states will have fewer candidates to select from after the initial primaries are over because some people will drop out even though they may have been more highly supported in those other states … making for lower turnouts in many of the remaining 47 states …

  37. #37
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:00 pm, mnmike said:

    Schoolmarm has a ruler to whack appendages if unruly.

  38. #38
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:01 pm, ajmontana said:

    they better get to keyes before he blows a gasket.

  39. #39
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:03 pm, ajmontana said:

    dang my cable just blew a gasket.. tv burp bummer.

  40. #40
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:05 pm, Fed Up said:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:37 pm, Yashmak said: I note that Ron Paul showed up, keeping the myth of his popularity alive.

    Not a myth…

    http://michellemalkin.com/2007/11/28/the-cnnyoutube-debate-edginess-elbows-eh/

    Read posts #208 - #230 - I’m just here to keep you on your toes. Conservative_Cat and I had a civil conversation on the issues where we both made some good points.

    Ron Paul does have a large following and it’s growing…and it’s also not just 9/11 truthers, video gamers or white supremists…(and no, I’m not a Leftist, Liberal, Progressive).

    I’m still waiting for an answer to this: http://michellemalkin.com/2007/12/10/the-spanish-language-panderfest-sprinkled-with-ron-pauls-blame-america-act-we-create-the-chavezes-of-the-world-we-create-the-castros-of-the-world/#comment-191757

    I hope I’m not kicked off just because I challenge the intellect common with some of you when it comes to understanding Ron Paul’s message…

    Example:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 2:50 pm, mnmike said: Ron Paul is a major goof.

    Remember, I love you all as God has commanded.

    And don’t accuse me of being “Alan Keyes” for interrupting your rants…I agree with most of them.

    Most of us are frustrated with the fact that our wars are funded by the hidden tax of inflation. Unfortunately, most don’t understand this simple concept. For every cause, there is an effect.

    Peace!

    Fed Up

  41. #41
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:05 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Rudy:

    9/11 9/11 9/11…

    AGAIN

  42. #42
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:06 pm, taylork said:

    I’m tired of Huck’s mini-speeches. They say nothing, but have a lot of platitudes and hyperbole.

  43. #43
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:07 pm, Marshall Russ said:

    This forum for debate is so old and tired can’t stand to watch another one like it.
    It was about what was expected.
    I didn’t like the fact that all of them want to bow at the Global Warming/Punish America Alter!

  44. #44
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:09 pm, taylork said:

    I didn’t like the fact that all of them want to bow at the Global Warming/Punish America Alter!

    Agreed, but from the sounds of it, at least Romney won’t do anything until we see everyone else do something too(which ain’t ever gonna happen).

  45. #45
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:10 pm, ajmontana said:

    Keyes is throwing darts… lol.

  46. #46
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:10 pm, taylork said:

    watching this streaming on foxnews just isn’t working

  47. #47
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:11 pm, mnmike said:

    I thought Ron Paul was a blimp?

  48. #48
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:12 pm, ajmontana said:

    no, he’s a wimp.

  49. #49
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:13 pm, Marshall Russ said:

    taylork#44, I heard what Romney said but, he didn’t despute the fact that he thought it was a threat.

  50. #50
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:14 pm, taylork said:

    Question: How would you guarantee an open White House?

    Answer: Keep the doors unlocked.
    (See I can be like Mike too!)

  51. #51
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:15 pm, taylork said:

    taylork#44, I heard what Romney said but, he didn’t despute the fact that he thought it was a threat

    I know, and I not super pro-Romney, but I’d rather have a guy that acknowledges it and does nothing than the guy who will spend $800 trillion while China and India fiddle.

  52. #52
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:20 pm, ajmontana said:

    mother ship calling…..

  53. #53
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:21 pm, Rogue said:

    Paul wouldn’t know what the Constitution said if it smacked him in the face!

  54. #54
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:21 pm, Marshall Russ said:

    taylork,#51 Yup, the heart of the matter.
    I have an article by a Canadian writer that nailed the central issue of the Bali conference. I’ll post the source.

  55. #55
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:22 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Oh - New years resolutions

    I would wake Michelle but…zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

  56. #56
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:24 pm, mnmike said:

    Romney’s answer to everything:

    Baseball, Apple Pie, and Chevrolet.

  57. #57
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:25 pm, ajmontana said:

    if I was Thompson my new years resolution would be to get to bed early every night. woof. :lol:

  58. #58
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:25 pm, Rogue said:

    Hey something I can agree with Paul on…recognize domestic enemies. Start with the Defeatocrats, Paul supporters, 9/11 Twoofers and islamofacists within our borders and their apologists!

  59. #59
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:26 pm, taylork said:

    I’d be more upset that I’m not watching this (streaming doesn’t work), if I thought they were saying anything new. Will nobody call out Huck on immigration, his lax crime stance, taxes, or his mormon comments, or are those issues not important to Iowa voters (eh, miss schoolmarm)?

  60. #60
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:29 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Soap’s summary:

    Blah, blah, blah – talking point – blah, blah, blah – stick finger in opponents eye – blah, blah, blah – duck! Incoming ufo - blah, blah, blah – more stupid questions – blah, blah, blah - *wishing I had that hour and 15 minutes back – blah, blah, blah……zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

  61. #61
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:30 pm, taylork said:

    Huckabee: I’ll be a lot more careful of everything I say.

    Translation: I’ll bash the LDS in private.

    And them, too.

    Huh? I must be missisg something there.

  62. #62
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:31 pm, shooter said:

    Ratchet ruined it.

  63. #63
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:31 pm, Schweggie said:

    Dude…

    I don’t know how much more I can take of all this pap.

  64. #64
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:31 pm, taylork said:

    Why was this debate held at 1pm Central time? Won’t the caucus goersbe at work?

  65. #65
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:32 pm, DesertLover said:

    Ron Paul is Kucinich’s co-pilot

  66. #66
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:34 pm, mngirl said:

    Where do we go to fire the Moderator?

    She was horrible.

    Did anyone vet her and make sure she’s not a Hillary Plant?

  67. #67
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:34 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:32 pm, DesertLover said:
    Ron Paul is Kucinich’s ET’s co-pilot

    Had to.

  68. #68
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:34 pm, astonerii said:

    Tancredo: Tancredo confronts Huckabee. How are you going to convince Americans that you have in fact changed your mind about immigration?

    I like Huckabee, he is a nice guy. I cannot stand for any one that I do not trust will protect our borders and will be able to stand firm and hard against any and all forms of amnesty and incentives (read: school tuition and path to citizenship for under 18 year old entry into USA because forced by parents.) for more illegals to come here. Sorry, but its not punishing the kids for their parents mistakes by deporting people in the USA who should not be in the USA. They are just lucky to have had the few days/weeks/years they had in this country and should go home and apply for a VISA like my wife did.

    As for Rudy, he may have had poor choices as a mayor, but the one thing that I think strikes me for his stances on immigration, and pretty much every other issue is the no broken windows policy. I think that once he starts down the path of protecting the USA from invading forces that he will implement the same strategy. He will not tolerate any small stuff.

  69. #69
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:37 pm, ajmontana said:

    “Faux News Alert”
    Alan Keye’s has been Arrested!
    Moments after the GOP Debate Keye’s kicked the Carp out of the moderator.
    film at 11:00

  70. #70
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:37 pm, MrVIBEMAN said:

    I give up. I’ve seen enough. I’m not going to watch anymore debates. I already know I’m voting for Hunter in the Primary. And any non-Hillary, non-Obama candidate in the G.E.

    Now I can spend the next 10 - 12 months watching cartoons with my 4 year old.
    :D

  71. #71
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:38 pm, DesertLover said:

    Gee Soap … see how you are? … :lol:

  72. #72
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:39 pm, davenp35 said:

    Frank Luntz shows Iowa viewers consider Romney the debate winnner…and I agree. Huck sucked…as usual.

  73. #73
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:40 pm, ajmontana said:

    lol, based on what?

  74. #74
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:42 pm, Schweggie said:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:34 pm, mngirl said:

    Where do we go to fire the Moderator?

    She was horrible.

    Worst ever. You could tell she was getting off on it. ‘THANK YOU’ cutting them off…THANK YOU THANK YOU droning on. Feel sorry for the husband or wife.

    The whole thing made me feel like THIS

  75. #75
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:43 pm, Jimbob said:

    I actually thought it was a good debate. Now the next thing I am going to say is not a racist remark nor is it meant to be non-pc but, Why was Keyes there? I know that I am from Iowa but I have seen a man of color before. Funny thing is I liked his comments on things (when he could get them in) Very generic comments but spot on non the less. The show of hands thing was the left leaning D.M. Register way of trying to set all of them up. It didn’t work. In fact it gave Thompson (who is quick despite how he looks) the chance to take control.
    All in all, they all sound the same with small differences. It’s those differences in details that are driving me crazy. The dems don’t have that trouble as even in the details they are the same.

  76. #76
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:44 pm, Mookie said:

    Alan Keyes is certifiable.

  77. #77
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:45 pm, taylork said:

    “We’ve got to move forward not backward, upward not downward, and always twirling, twirling about!”

    Is it a Huck speech, or a Simpson’s quote? You be the judge.

  78. #78
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:45 pm, Rogue said:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:44 pm, Mookie said:
    Alan Keyes is certifiable.

    Nah, Paul is the token looney. Keyes is the token Fairtaxer

  79. #79
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:45 pm, madchef said:

    These guys can climb back into the clown car now, I don’t think that we could do any worse if we just put all of the Social Security numbers in a giant hat and just picked one! Any american citizen would do.

  80. #80
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:49 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Im’s with 30 so far. Hunter ‘08.

    I still prefer Malkin/Coulter

    *you can tell I am still asleep by the nice dream there

  81. #81
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:49 pm, uhangtight said:

    huckster, huck the schmuck did a huck-a-bomb, yes. little bumper sticker phrases does not a presidential candidate make for a repulican, let’s leave that for the dems. no depth, no substance and no huck go back to arkansas. Maybe Hitlery will make you her VP??

    i used to want Thompson as the VP slot with Romney. But, now I am liking Hunter there much better.

  82. #82
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:51 pm, uhangtight said:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:45 pm, madchef said:
    These guys can climb back into the clown car now, I don’t think that we could do any worse if we just put all of the Social Security numbers in a giant hat and just picked one! Any american citizen would do.

    Problem there is that we would potentially get an illegal alien, as they have and are using fradulently Social Security Numbers. That is how illegal immigrant 18 year olds in Arkansas can go to college and get the in-state tuition benefit. Need a SS# can’t go without one..

    so with the luck we have been having is an illegal ss# would be picked and we would all end up speaking spanish in New Mexiusa…

  83. #83
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:52 pm, ajmontana said:

    I think Thompson is warming up. and maybe them folks in Iowa are into the grain alcohol a lil early today.

  84. #84
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:53 pm, see-dubya said:

    Washburn managed to suck all the life and color out of one of the most contested, exciting, unpredictable campaign fields in recent history.

    I agree about the moderator, but was there really that much “life and color” to suck out?

    I’d shorten the sentence:

    Washburn managed to suck

  85. #85
    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:53 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    “Faux News Alert”
    Alan Keye’s has been Arrested!
    Moments after the GOP Debate Keye’s kicked the Carp out of the moderator.
    film at 11:00

    This just in:

    Post debate emergency. Carolyn Washburn is rushed to the emergency with carp protruding from several orifices.

  86. #86
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:04 pm, steveegg said:

    On December 12th, 2007 at 3:53 pm, see-dubya said:

    That had to be said. I’m just glad you said it instead of me; I would’ve found a way to get on Michelle’s bad side with my ReWrite™.

  87. #87
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:07 pm, Burner said:

    Alan Keyes - ” I’m black so you WILL
    cave in to my demands”

  88. #88
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:08 pm, Burner said:

    Muslims have learned alot from blacks like him.

  89. #89
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:09 pm, taylork said:

    #87, huh?

  90. #90
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:10 pm, taylork said:

    #88, what?

  91. #91
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:16 pm, Burner said:

    A white nobody wouldn’t be able to just waltze into there

  92. #92
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:17 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    #90

    Ditto

  93. #93
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:17 pm, publiuswarmac9999 said:

    I had a positive reaction to the debate. For once, it was nice to have each candidate spell out his ideas without the carping crap from another candidate or the moderator. Also, I felt the questions were some of the best heard - and I would like the same questions to be used on the Democrats (fat chance).

    Alan Keyes is certainly a wild hair in the game - no chance of winning. But his point about the relationship between morality and societal success is one that all American citizens should take seriously. (An undisciplined and utterly chaotic nation which adopts socialism will not be successful. Just pick one in Europe.)

  94. #94
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:17 pm, DesertLover said:

    Actually I think Tancredo and Hunter would be good candidates to run ICE and DHS (no particular preference as to which one is in which position) … We need someone in those positions that actually believes in enforcing the laws those departments are responsible for instead of following the PC police …

  95. #95
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:18 pm, On-my-soap-box said:

    Burner,

    Quit while you are ahead.

  96. #96
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:18 pm, Burner said:

    Don’t you see muslims working the system just like blacks have done the last 50 years ?

  97. #97
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:21 pm, Burner said:

    Well, What credentials does Keyes have? Nobody even knew he was running.

  98. #98
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:22 pm, uhangtight said:

    i see many of all types, sizes and colors using the system to their advantage. working the system is something learned from libs. it is not a ‘color’ thing.

    burner you should be ashamed of yourself…

  99. #99
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:23 pm, conservativesRus said:

    Burner - just cuz you seem not to have known of Keyes, does not make him a “nobody”.

  100. #100
    On December 12th, 2007 at 4:24 pm, see-dubya said:

    Soap Box: He’s not ahead.

    Burner: seriously, dude, drop it now. Whatever it is you are trying to say, it’s something you shouldn’t.

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