Debating--AGAIN!

Well, I guess we'll (or they) will be debating for a long time here on out . . .

Last night Fox held a round of Republican debates. I guess there were no real surprises there, except for the fact that Ron Paul was not invited to come. I understand the logic--he's a long shot and they wanted to reserve the time for real contenders. It still irks me that he wasn't given a platform. If anything his message, his comments, questions may spur something in the other candidates. He is a doctor, a "maverick" some say and his presence would have been beneficial and FAIR. AND, right now he is favored higher than Thompson in New Hampshire.

Moving on. There were no big surprises at the debate. But there were a few notable observations:
1. Giuliani and Thompson never seemed to get a great grip on the debates. They had a few comments here and there. Thompson was long-winded (maybe he needed a script) and Giuliani just lacked the enthusiasm that I really expected from a one-time front runner.

2. Huckabee was evasive and defensive, especially when questioned about taxes by Romney.

3. Romney was much smoother today. His answers were specific and actionable. He seemed confident and didn't let the barbs (there were only a few this time) shake him up.

4. McCain threw fewer barbs at Romney and instead focused more on his experience and the positive changes he has enacted. He also made mention of his military leadership which helped to remind voters that this is a decorated war hero we are listening to.

Overall, I'm eager to see what happens next. As for the Democrats, it really seems that Hillary is going to have a rough going. From what I heard today she is really starting to appear desperate.

What puzzles me most is that regardless of what happened in Iowa and what happens in New Hampshire, this race is far from over (the fact is many have lost and still gotten the nomination and visa versa. However, the media really puts some crazy spins on just how the candidates are doing. It seems that the media can easily influence voters when they declare that a candidate is in trouble, is doing fantastic, is in a do or die situation. The thing is, we just don't really know yet. We are all still getting an idea of who these candidates are and what they stand for. I just hope the media backs off and lets it all soak in.

Tomorrow will be interesting!