The Democratic Presidential Candidates are all in New Hamshire tonight for a televised debate. CNN, one of the co-sponsors, will have live coverage starting at 7:00 p.m. EDT for the two-hour event, plus a "spin" session afterwards. I'll be there.
At Jane's suggestion, we obtained
need to be asked not only their positions on the occupation but also their explanations for why they've been unable so far to deliver on the implicit promise they made last November to end the occupation. And they need to respond to the White House stories that the US is there to stay. Do they think this is Korea, and if not, then what? What do they intend to do about the ever changing phony stories this White House has created just in the last six months alone? Are the Dems committed to ending the occupation, and if so, how will that be done? And why do a couple of them think that leadership is waiting until the last minute on the funding vote to see how the other votes?
Close behind Iraq should be questions about our intentions and policies toward Iran and the Israeli war with Palestine, along with spreading violence in Lebanon. Do they see that the predictions about simultaneous civil wars in the Middle East are all coming true? How do they explain its causes and solutions? And do they see a link between their own careless rhetoric and the Bush/Cheney regime's Jekyll and Hyde approach to foreign policy? These people owe us answers other than "I can be tough too." Are we really stuck with expecting the incompetent Rice to keep the crazy Cheney in check while the President of the US babbles incoherently and people die?
Domestic issues should receive at least equal time — universal health proposals, immigration, equal pay for women — and what about that Supreme Court case, folks? — just to name a few. The candidates all support the goal of universal health something — but it's usually not universal care so much as universal insurance coverage requiring and expanding the role of the insurance industry. Why does that make sense? Why are they asking employers to be the vehicle, and why aren't there elements of single payer systems in their proposals. And do we really have to accept a very gradual phase in, as some suggest, and how long will it take to get everyone covered? The could spend the night on global warming, so I'm hoping for more than the obligatory question about whether they support the WH's head fake last week. And how do these candidates connect their climate policies with their energy strategies. Do they have any clue about hard this is and how much leadership it will take? Do any of them it in them?
I'm hoping that Wolf and/or the audience will be concerned enough about the assualt on the rule of law to ask a lot of tough questions on Gonzales, torture and Guantanamo, the MCA, CIA programs, warrantless surveillance and so on. They could spend a whole night on that as far as I'm concerned. But I want to know what the Congress intends to do about these abuses and when, because it's not getting better, it's just getting more embedded in our system. I'm not sure whether the Senators can be asked about impeaching Gonzales, but the issue of his leadership and it's connection to the White House criminality need to be made. There are dozens more questions I'd like to ask these people, and I'm sure all of you have more.
While they were running security check of the venues this afternoon, I drove over to a local restaurant for a late lunch, and couldn't help overhearing some of the locals. They're talking about the debate, they know it's here and they're interested. But the conversations I overheard were about whether Hillary, being a woman, could put aside her innate female emotionalism and be a tough President; about whether they really believed this global warming hoopla; and about whether Obama was really a Muslim. Fox may not be sponsoring the debate, but it sure has framed it. Now I know why the candidates have to say some of the things they do.
I'll add updates as I can during the debates, so feel free to comment along.
******
7:20 p.m. Update: Clintons sees Edward’s “it’s not a war on terror; that’s a bumper sticker” statement as a opportunity to sound tough by reinvoking 9/11, but she’s embracing the Bush talking point.
To: Biden: why was he the only one on the group to vote for the Supplemental? Did anyone here an answer? “I’d don’t want to judge my friends.” Will someone ask how they expect to end this?
Edwards points out that Clinton and Obama waiting to last minute to announce their vote; that’s not leadership, but Obama says Edwards is 4 1/2 years late on “leadership.” And Hillary says this is George Bush’s war — asserting herself to speak for the group. “The differences between us are minor; the differences between us and the Republicans is major.” She’s won the rhetorical point and Edwards seems on the defensive, IMO. Iranic that Obama and Clinton join to neutralize Edwards.
Dodd finally gets a chance to speak, 18 minutes in, but his not on the issue they’ve been discussing, nor is Richardson.
UPDATE: 7:30 p.m.
Biden finally gets to the responsibility of Bush and the Republicans; all the votes are meaningless, he argues, until they get a new President or 60 votes.
Now Hillary tries version 721 of why she got hoodwinked by Bush. So it wasn’t here mistake, even though she didn’t read the intelligence reports in full. She’s left herself open again; if she thought the inspectors needed to finish their job, you shouldn’t authorize war — doesn’t anyone know how to vote note or write a condition?
Obama lets Edwards stay in the race even though he voted for authorization. He attacks the “fear mongering,” but doesn’t take the opportunity to support this reframing away from “war on terror.”
Hillary trying version 722. She needs to be asked, why did you trust George Bush when others saw he shouldn’t be trusted? Why did you miss this? Gravel says it’s a matter of judgment.
UPDATE: 7:45 p.m.
On to immigration — Richardson argues the proposal is not amnesty. Fence not needed. Biden points out impossibility of rounding up/deporting 12 million. A president sometimes needs to be “practical.” “Being practical” draws a laugh from the reporters in the gym. Obama agrees with Richardson, Biden — but acknowledges need for “securing the border.”
Democrats vote against making English the “official language,” and people applaud. Obama — it’s a way to divide us. I think Wolf was surprised that this means Lou Dobbs might be a demogague. Dems are united and articulate on this. Well done. A proud moment.
On the health care and how to pay for it. Edwards — “we can’t do it all for nuthin.” Obama focuses on driving down costs by “taking on the insurance companies” but doesn’t explain how. Clinton thrilled that “universal health care” back on the agenda. What she learned from past: need political will and broad coalition to withstand the challenge from big pharma and big insurance — she’s playing their leader again, and the rest have to listen.
Richardson, Dodd, just piling on the Democratic argument. The message I’m hearing from Democrats is clear; we stand for universal health care, and the rest is details. Edwards hammers on making sure everyone is covered. On this issue, the “debate” is a lovefest. Hillary is beaming to be in the middle, just smiling, to be in the exchange between Obama and Edwards.
Single payor system finally introduced — and gets an ovation.
(AP Photo/Jim Cole)
Related posts:
- Baucus, Reid, Obama Promote Backroom “Bipartisanship” over Democratic Debate
- Semi-liveblog Of The Debate To Allow Debate To Begin In The Senate
- Online Health Care Townhalls Sunday at FDL: Ohio Democratic Senate Candidates
- A Public Option in the Democratic Platform?
- Didn’t We Just Have a National Referendum on Obama’s Health Care Plan Last November?





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Go Al Gore!! (and if not Al, then I think Edwards/Obama would be a winning ticket.)
PS, I have no hope of ZEDitude.
—> added in edit: Where IS everybody? :)
———
(Click on my .SIG above)
Hello Scarecrow and SOS! Can’t wait to see this.
Why, in the pre-debate, do we have Lou Dobbs interviewing Ed Rollins?
Good evening; folks are still back on Book Salon, which is fine; it’s a great discussion. They’ll be along soon.
YeeHaw, let the games begin!!!
Julie Waters @ 3
Good question; earlier they had Carville and Brazille.
I am glad that one of us will be there to report un-spinnedly. Thanks, Scarecrow, for being there so that I (among many others) will not have to watch.
It’s just too damn bad that you won’t be able to question the candidates directly. I just bet their heads would explode!
After seeing the odious Brian Williams doing the questioning on the first debate, I would hope the odious Wolf Blitzer is an improvement.
I won’t be holding my breath…
I’m not even clear on why Carville’s relevant :)
pork chops, taters and gravy, dakine!
Loo Hoo. @ 10
Actually today was meatloaf, potatos, peas, biscuits, and brown gravy.
Will Judge Walton:
Reward Loyalty to the President or Punish Obstruction of Justice?
Firepups wanna know! I’ve just made my sixth consecutive monthly contribution of $25.07 to support FireDogLake’s history-making Live-blogging, insightful articles and the best commentarial analysis in the Blogosphere – and it feels great!
Please join Jane and Marcy for Libby Sentencing Live-blogging from Judge Walton’s DC Courtroom on Tuesday!
And Please Donate Today!
Just a general technical note – when working on a live broadcast any crew that have even a remote chance of being in camera view wear black. It lessens the possibility of being seen, particularly in reflections. It’s neither a fashion statement, nor a funeral observation. Not to nitpick, but just for general knowledge.
Here’s some background and perspective on Iraq, that’s probably way too hot too handle for a corporate television candidacy in America today. But maybe some of the questions from audience members will touch on it, at least, up there in “Live Free or Die” New Hampshire:
Re-acquaint yourselves with Moqtada al-Sadr: the young Shia Iraqi cleric (and Iraqi nationalist) whom Reuters labels a “radical anti-American” in its reporting [imagine the nerve of being opposed to an uninvited occupying Army that is thwarting all attempts by Iraqis to unify Iraq into a whole and intact “unfailed state,” as it simultaneously tries to “legally” steal your immensely valuable natural resources out from under you…].
The UK’s Independent on Sunday interviewed al-Sadr this week. This important article backs up other recent reporting about al-Sadr’s attempts to negotiate with Sunnis (and others, including SCIRI) for a peaceful and more effective resistance to the occupying American military.
Here’s a snip:
Http://news.independent.co.uk/…..609310.ece
The Associated Press also has an article out today, reporting on an interview with a Sunni leader and parliament member (Saleh al-Mutlaq), who is likewise calling for Iraqis to unite in opposition to the American-puppet figurehead Iraqi government in order to resist the occupation and the unwanted foreign influence in their affairs:
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap…..wmaker.php
The solution to our occupation of Iraq really does start with describing our presence in Iraq for what it in fact is: an unwelcome military occupation of a sovereign nation. If a Member of Congress (or candidate for President) can’t or won’t clearly state that, then their underlying premise must be (or must be inferred to be) that Americans have the right, or the obligation, or even the moral authority, to be present with armed force in Iraq against the will of the Iraqi citizens for the good of the Iraqi people if they but knew it and for our own “strategic,” “security” purposes, whatever they may be. That’s supreme “master race” arrogance, flies in the face of international law and treaty, and our own laws and Constitution, yet happens to be the currently operative and highly immoral “foreign policy” of the United States of America, as supported by both the Executive and Legislative Branches of our federal government.
I’ve noticed a tendency by our legislators to wish to see themselves as modern-day “Schindlers” where Israel (or at least A*P*C) is concerned. They seem to think we are still fighting a war of the last century. But this century’s industrial-strength (American) war of choice is instead violently endangering innocent Arabs, not Jews or the nuclear-armed nation of Israel, and thus today’s Schindlers will be those among us who work and strive to safeguard the lives of endangered Arab citizens (see, for example, Sweden and its Iraqi refugees). Notably, neither A*P*C nor Israel’s government appear to be willing to aid in that struggle to save innocent Arab lives, despite the tragic history of their own Semitic peoples in WWII. Will today’s strong though mostly-hidden racism against the Arab and Muslim citizens of the world lead to the same sort of dehumanizing catastrophe that last century’s strong and not-so-hidden racism brought to bear in the German Final Solution decimation of the Jewish citizens of the world?
Or will America finally come to its senses and return in time to its founding principles of liberty and justice for all?
Please excuse the comment “not
related” to post. We are running late and scrambling to get the word out.
NOTICE:
Live Chat Tonight during Dem debate
@ The
Blue State
In a progressive blogosphere first, we will unveil “The Blue
State Live Chat” during the Democratic Debate.� You will be
able to chat in real time with other fellow progressives about your favorite
candidate(s) as you watch on CNN.� We have never tried this before.�
All you need to do is enter a nickname and start yapping away.� We hope
you all will join us at 7 PM ET tonight.
The live chat is in real time
– You can chat with other progressives as the debate happens.
– You don’t need to sign up.� Just enter a nickname and start chatting.
– Debate starts @ 7 PM ET.
�
�
[Mod Note; really? A progressive blogosphere first? Interesting.]
Julie Waters @ 9
He’s not except in his own mind and the minds of his CNN masters.
Scarecrow @ 6
The Corporate Media likes to interview DINOs instead of Democrats.
Scarecrow,
Glad you didn’t get lost on your way there!
Nothing about global warming?
Scarecrow @ 4
Scarecrow~! How exciting to have you there for us today! And they are off…
First stupid question asking about how the Bushies have thwarted terrorism—don’t they deserve credit?
I’m gonna puke.
Good thing I poured myself a double stinger before this started.
oooh, i wanna stinger!
Good thing is right, RevDeb! Daniels here.
TeddySanFran @ 21
come on over!
Edwards good, Teddy.
Hillary looks great!
hopefully cnn won’t f*ck this up….
Wolf to Obama: Does the Bush admin Sen deserve ANY credit for making sure there has been no attack in US since 9/11?
Swallow much kool-aid Wolf?
wolf to Edwards What about calling GWOT a bumper sticker slogan
Edwards: That’s exactly what it is.
To Clinton: Do you agree with Edwards?
Clinton no I do not. I’m senator from NY and seen what they can do.
Why are Clinton and Kucinich on raised platforms?
Hillary looks better (beauty wise) every time I see her.
You sure this isn’t a Pox Noise debate?
Hill, just proved once again, why I won’t vote for her!!!
Kucinich quoting Ben fRanklin on those giving up liberty for security deserve neither…
calling out Biden on his supplemental vote
Biden, hsssssssss
TeddySanFran @ 32
lotta good that’s gonna do.
solai @ 28
Wow. That’s relevant. How about we talk about Biden’s hair now?
Camera work really sloppy
Question for Biden: Why were Hill, Obama Dodd wrong to vote against funding.
Biden: I’ll tell you why I was right to vote for it. We need to tell the truth now. 170k troops in harms way.
Scarecrow—
That’s an amazing list of questions. My question: how can we get YOU onto the talk shows?
wolf pushing Biden on why he won’t say the others wrong on voting against funding.
I couldn’t take 4 years of Biden’s voice.
Never seen Biden angry before
Biden refuses to attack others. Good.
TeddySanFran @ 36
Maybe we shoulda had Fox do it, instead!!! ;-)
I don’t see platforms.
I do not (again) understand the infatuation with Obama the public speaker. This guy is finding his way, word by word.
Hillary: I thought best way to support the troops was to bring them home. We’re all on this stage united in bringing the troops home safely.
Obama? everybody supports the troops. It’s how we do it that matters. Now Presdent talking about Korea where we’ve been sixty years…
Spazeboy just called me from NH, and he said the Lyndon LaRouche “singers” were outside the hall. Anyone who saw the final CT Senate Debate last year will remember those morons interrupting the debate with their singing several times. They were arrested in Hartford a few days later (and gave me some great footage for a fun video).
It’ll amaze me if these guys manage to disrupt this show, but you gotta give them credit for their capacity to cause trouble.
BTW, my blog has been locked by Blogger.com for the last few days because their robot thinks it’s a “spam blog”. Sorry for the lack of updates…I’m working feverishly to get my blog back.
Edwards praising Dodd for his leadership on the funding vote…
JE: “others went quietly to the floor of the Senate; Dodd led, others voted last, although they case the right vote.”
I like Edwards more and more each time I see him in action.
Edwards attacking Obama and Hillary. Hate to see that.
Edwards scolding Hill and Barack for late vote with no speaking to it ahead of time.
Obama is talking himself into a box: “troops on the ground”
Teddy, you told them to say occupation, and they keep saying war!
RevDeb @ 50
So far he’s got my vote, barring a late Gore run!!!
CTuttle @ 55
yep.
Obama trying slap down of Edwards for his initial vote for the original resolution .
Hilliary: This is GWB’s war. He started, he made it worse. We’re all trying to end this war of Bush’s…Our diffenrences are minor. The diffs between us and Repubs is major…
solai @ 51
How is it an attack to discuss their actions?
Hillary just did very well. Attacked Bush….which of course I like.
Dodd should not let them put him next to JE; he looks old.
I like Dodd’s hair, solai.
Loo Hoo. @ 54
Thinking same thing. Such a simple request.
Dodd: This policy in Iraq has failed.
I really like the positioning of Edwards, with Hill/Obama in his direct line of firing!!! :)
TeddySanFran @ 49
I have to say I liked that. Dodd deserves kudos for what he did, I like that Edwards gave it to him.
What about Edwards/Dodd? Joe Trippi is with edwards, that says a lot to me. I’ve been an edwards woman since 2004, go John. And Al.
PS Check out te Daily Howler of June 1 for even more reasons to love Al.
Get Blitzer off the stage. He is sucking up to much oxygen! This is going to be a 3 tier debate.
Richardson: Resolution to de-auth war. Wolf talking over and trying to be a bigger a** than usual.
Loo Hoo. @ 61
Uh oh, am I going to be a target tonight?
solai @ 51
He didn’t attack them– he pointed out a serious difference. Attacking is questioning their motives or their intent.
hey, MB — are you guys back from China? How was the trip?
Connecticut Bob @ 47
Thought you might be in NH too, Bob. Spazeboy was over here yesterday for coffee and said he was going. Just got into the college of his choice, too. I’m so proud of hi!
Gravel — “How do we know what will happen?”
Wolf doesn’t liek the answers he’s getting so is interrupting and talking over.
Gravel: They call it Bush’s war but they facilitated it by voting for it originally.
They talk about dominos sounds like Vietnam
Gravel/Paul 2008– Crazy Coots Who Make Sense!
Michael @ 67
It’s always all about him. From Day 1 in Iraq 1. Nothing has changed.
Scarecrow is evidently sitting next to Miss Laura in the spin room.
He’s worried he might need dramamine before the night is over.
Update at 7:20
solai @ 69
no, hon.
K: “This war has been based on lies” Go Dennis!
“Send no money — the war is over!”
Jane Hamsher @ 77
From the spin, not Miss Laura, by any means. Smart lady.
Hi Teddy! Wonderful, wonderful…loved Hong Kong, would move there in a heart beat. Sprout was THE best traveller, my worst fear went unrealized. Thanks for the tips, I told him and DB what you suggested and they both ROARED.
I still like Kucinich!!! sigh…..
Look, Hillary is tough on terror.
Biden is yelling again.
Biden is being “angry guy from a small state” tonite.
Julie Waters @ 9
I do not think he is relevant and I do not think he is a Democrat. He married Mary Matalin, who conspired with Cheney and Libby as part of the “Iraq Group“.
All Right!!! Some Fireworks!!! Where was the passion on the floors of Congress, last week???
Hill sez she didn’t count on the Prez going to war.
I can’t see any of this so I really appreciate the comments
and it’s cool that Scarecrow is there.
Everythingseemssoneat @ 84
she can terrorize the best of them
Kucinich: I honor the service of those who serve. But war based on lies. Bring em home and stop the funding. I think Dennis being a little unrealistic…
Biden: The repubs have not been telling truth from beginning. Let’s not stop telling the truth here. We have 50 votes in Senate. We need 67 votes. We’ll end war when we have Dem President.
Wolf to Clinton: Do you regret voting for war without reading the briefs?
Hill: I was thoroughly briefed by everyone. Vote was not unreasonable act to use inspectors and follow a process. GWB refused to follow the auth and use inspectors.
I don’t like Hillary saying “I was thoroughly briefed. I knew all the intelligence.”
Uh, no. You were told a lot of shit, girl.
JE: “I think I was wrong. I never should have voted for this war.”
Yep. So far Edwards is the man. I like Dodd more and more every time I hear him as well. Dodd’s profile has definitely been raised recently.
Edward says Obama was right, he was wrong. Imagine GWB EVER saying that.
Edwards saying I was wrong. I admit it. That’s the dif. between me and Hill.
edwards i wasnt on the intelligence committee i read info i had info that i needed. one difference i was wrong, obama deserves credit he was right i was wrong. important for anybody who seeks to be next president given dishonesty we have seen over last few years need president who will be open honest w american people
Edwards: We had plenty of info in vote. But I’ll admit I was wrong in my vote and applaud Sen Obama for being right by opposing from beginning.
obama: people were making best judgments at the time. chairman graham of florida intelligence cited that specifically why he voted against. i appreciate johns comment what i saw was a weak case by admin critical for us moving forward we are not gonna be able to have our troops in civil war and succeed. enormous distraction al Q opportunity to be successful but must finish the job
Wolf is still an a**. He’s obviously trying to stir up fireworks between the candidates.
Jane Hamsher @ 72
I came real close to going, but needed to cancel to do some home remodeling. I would have loved to been there just to torment the LaRouchies!
And YAY for Spazeboy! Good choice, IMO.
St. A’s!
Gravel cites more Americans killed in Iraq than on the eleventh of September
Gravil angry too. More dead Americans from occupation than 9/11.
TeddySanFran @ 86
is he baring his teeth?
Dodd Clock says we’re hearing more from the beard than anyone else.
Gravel: those who voted for the war have no moral judgement.
Gravel: we have killed more american than died on Spt 11. They do not have the moral authority to be President.
Hillary? We trusted the idiot.
gravel: knew 2 sets of intell at same time political decision. we have killed more americans than 11 sept that disqualifies people here for president. they dont have moral judgment
hrc/clinton: if i knew then wht i know now i would never have voted yes. bush made in speeches and in private many other countries sources was wmd what was wrong was the president misused authority we gave him
Mic problems — this is amateur hour. MSNBC is gonna be the star tonite!
How many more debates do we have suffer through with Gravel in attendance???
Jane Hamsher @ 107
cool graphic. Thanx!
I have to say that Hillary pounding the weapons inspector answer regarding the war authorization is about six degrees separated from the question.
I can’t believe 10% of the people who are listening know what she’s talking about.
TeddySanFran @ 111
My guess is infrastructure from WMUR in Manchester.
Richardson is trying for the Scoop Jackson Democrats’ votes. Or vote.
TeddySanFran @ 111
Wolf is the star. just ask him.
Richardson on immigration. I would not support legislation that separates families or walls.
1. Border patrols doubled
2. Earned legalization program
3. Penalize employers
CTuttle @ 112
Are Kucinich and Richardson owed a place in the debate and not Gravel?
I’m for Edwards, too. But I think Hillary is doing a very good job. She’s defending the votes of all the dems and laying the war at Bush’s feet.
dakine01 @ 101
I think that is healthy! Why not provoke intense debate??? *g*
aravella @ 15
is it on gabbly? if not, it is surely not a first.
Wolf: Why isn’t immigration bill an amnesty? He smoking Lou Dobbs’ sh*t now?
richardson re immig [Q about 4? million illegal]
[do you support legal status/why is not amnesty] i’m a border state governor. 2 yrs ago was emergency, drugs and illegal people coming into my state. i would not support berlin wall legislation the way bill in congress exists today. what essential components: double size of border patrol dont reduce size, legalization program including english back taxes background check. if they get here and legally embrace laws. penalize emplyers who knowingly hire illegal.
Q—most wd qualify and make them legal residents why isnt this amnesty. Amnesty isnt, sets standards for learning english etc Touchback head of household plan to go back is unworkable. not immediate amnesty citizenship takes 13 years. legalization plan in congress our aim always bring families together, this separates and labor protection
Q—voted to support this legis and 700 mile fence mexico to biden:
Biden: doesnt need to be fence
Love the mods.
Who are you supporting in Kos poll?
CTuttle @ 121
Debate is good but Wolf is acting incensed that they’re not all po’d at each other and hacking each other to pieces.
Biden has bug bites or something.
Why does Wolf keep framing the questions as “why is [the other guy on the stage] wrong? It’s really distracting and not very illuminating.
Julie Waters @ 119
I’ll concede my personal fav. Kucinich! However, Richardson has the portfolio to be onstage!!!
The Beard is all about The Beard, n’est ce pas?
Jane Hamsher @ 114
as usual, she is just too dense (meant both ways). that’s why regular folks will pick Fred. we are in big T trouble with Hill as a frontrunner.
Biden: the Angry Technocrat.
good for Obama on the Canada fence and TB dude!
biden you gonna spend hundreds of billions and world watching vs background check and earned citizenship
Q if you dont think fence why vote
A a fence will stop 20 kilos of cocaine this bill much more reasonable serious drug trafficking problem
Q Obama shd we build fence w Canada
A better control border w canada TB case let in because he looked ok. its a problem. we have to strength border partrol both sides country of immigrants country of laws balance i’m hopeful we can solve constructively those who have already here playing by rules willing to pay fine rigorous process peope will support if border secured and not so many more people coming in
Jane Hamsher @ 126
interesting. a lot of Edwards supporters at Kos r watching.
oh god — raising hands
Raise your hand if you believe that Blitzer’s an idiot.
Jane Hamsher @ 126
I’m with the majority. That never happens in my real life!
English “official language”? Jesus, what a waste of time question.
Obama calling out Wolf on the question of languages.
Listen, It’s just not the same without Lieberman.
Wolf: Raise your hand if you think English should be the official language…..
Obama calls it a distraction.
good on Obama
Thanks to Obama for calling the English question stupid.
Julie Waters @ 138
hand
Obama calling BS on the official language question. Good.
WTF, Oh no, not a ‘raise your hand’ Question!!! Nice response by Obama!!!
Connecticut Bob @ 140
Stupid question
Julie Waters @ 138
waving madly both hands
Q should english be official lang US show of hands
only is gravel people speak spanish and english
obama this kind of Q precisely to divide us everybody is gonna learn to speak english if they live in this country not question if future immigrants will learn to speak english shd be about how to construct reasonable immigration policy
hil/clinton problem is becomes official as opposed to national. official means you cant print ballots other languages hospital cant translate for the doctors many of us voted to say national language but not official because legal consequences
Julie Waters @ 138
Standing, waving madly….
Raise your hands should English be official language. Gravel only one raising hand.
Obama: this is question designed to divide us. Question is not will people learn English. Of course they will.
Hillary: If it becomes official rather than recognized as national, you can’t have gov’t paid translators or ballots in other languages because of legal consequences.
Wow…Edwards at 47% in Kos poll!
TiredFed @ 122
It’s very similar to Gabbly, but embedded in the blog. Gabbly can now be embedded, BTW, into WordPress and TypePad blogs by way of a widget. Possible income stream from ad revenues for FDL, too…
Dodd, we need second langujages and should be encouraged. Good
dodd we need to encourage more language training need people who speak arabic second language. in 21st century global economy. certainly national language i speak spanish encourage more of that
Dodd making the case for multi-lingualism.
Julie Waters @ 138
Both hands up and waving
Good for Dodd to call for more language training, not limiting our official language. Of course, Wolf cuts him off.
Edwards, health care dysfunctional. Compliments Obama again. Gentleman.
Wolf the other day…
“Some are saying al Qaeda is going to launch a summer offensive in Iraq”
He just makes sh*t up. Does it all the time
JE “getting rid of Bush’s taxcuts”
Just got in. I’m tuned in. Who looks good? On the debate. Who doesn’t look good? So far.
Edwards still the man. How to make national healthcare work.
Q for edwards for health care on taxes for health care, are others being honest about cost universal health care
edwards this countrys health care system completely dysfunctional i’m first to come out with first universal plan. obama to be credited with plan. get rid of pre existing and include mental health. you cannot do this for nothing. sick of politicians who say can do for nothing all and eliminate federal deficit, thats not being honest w people
Jane Hamsher @ 77
Forgive my ignorance, but “Mis Laura”? Who’s that?
TeddySanFran @ 159
Haven’t seen anything but I hope Wolf is doing the repub debate on Tuesday so we can do a compare…
I still am an Edwards fan…
good plans..
I actually think they’re all making sense. Very impressed. (Except Hilary sounds like she’s reading a script.)
I have to say our team has the best hair hands down, big time.
Hillary’s smile is radiant tonight.
TiredFed @ 136
Edwards, 46%; Obama, 26%; Hill, 7%; Richardson, 7%…. Bwhahahaha!!!!
I’m not liking Obama on health care. Edward’s sounds better on this. And Hillary is “thrilled”?
Hill “thrilled” health care back on the national agenda, but does not sound thrilled. She needs to work on her “thrilled” I think
Wolf attempting to sandbag Hillary on Universal health care becuz of her attempt back in the day…
OK, I know I’m a bit prejudiced, but our side is so much smarter than theirs, don’tcha think? I cringed at the 2nd rate questions and answers during the Red Brigade’s debate. Here, not so much.
Wolf — can you do this without raising taxes?
( no wolfie, your taxes are going UP bigtime )
My two cents: I think Obama is winning this debate by a wide, wide margin.
I’m still with Edwards and that’s not likely to change anytime soon, but I have to admit, I’m really impressed with both Obama and Dodd in this debate so far.
I think I’m tired of Biden’s “I am the Great and Powerful Oz” routine, and ever since I thought of that, I can’t help but think of Kucinich as a Munchkin and Richardson as the Cowardly Lion.
Sometimes I hate my brain.
obama—john has lot of good elements in his plan. lot of overlap. main disagreemt john believes we have to have mandatory insurance for everyone, mine most families want but cant afford take on insurance companies. drug companies do whats right. if we do those things drive down the cost for families can save family w insurance 1,000 a year we do provide for children
hrclinton—i’m thrilled that universal health care is back on the agenda. we tried to plan in 93 and i have scars to show. most important is not plan only a few ways to do this. my lower costs improve costs cover everybody learned from previous effort broad coalition doctors nurses when attack from insurace companies who dont want to change the system. heres the challenge 120B in savings from changes health care records, better challenge. i’m wrestling w how realize the savings. will let tax on wealthiest expire, energy effic global…CUT OFF by blitzer
richardson [in NM] we insured every child under 5 my wife led immunization, we got rid of junk food in schools
Dover Bitch @ 178
Why?
dakine01 @ 175
he’s a jerk
Let’s see now. We’re spending two bil per wk. on Iraq. But we can’t raise taxes to do health care?
Hillary giving an answer and wolf interrupts again.
She says all Dems will let bush tax cuts on wealthies expire so maney will be there, just how to spend.
Wolf interrupts to bring in Richardson then starts interrupting his explanaiton.
Oklahoma kiddo @ 183
Can’t let the repubs label us the RAISE TAXES party.
Dodd: 42nd in infant mortality
Julie Waters @ 138
I think it is unanimous. Firedogs, you may put your hands down now.
Wolf just talks over anything he doesn’t like or anytime he thinks he can cause a disruption.
And aren’t Gravel, Kucinich, Dodd in this debate?
Does Wolf know this?
richardson—my plan mandatory i believe we can have plan. if you satisisfied w plan you can keep focus on prevention bring medicare 55 and over
dodd—theres not a person who wouldnt tell you problms w health 42nd in infant mortality, people w/o health care, 9 million tech, preventive care. missing is ability bring people together to get the job done no one party is going to write the whole thing
TeddySanFran @ 177
Teddy, I could hug you, making me laugh. * mwah! *
Oklahoma kiddo @ 163
I think they all look good. In the same way that the repubs all looked bad.
Oklahoma kiddo @ 183
Go Figure….
Can someone please get out the voodoo doll and shut the Beard the fuck up? He won’t let anyone finis.
Edwards complimenting Obama that both have same elements in their plans. Obama trying to show differences…
Gosh, these are smart, articulate, committed, real human beings. I am so glad I’m a Democrat. They are also polite to one another.
Such a contrast. I hope some GOP households tuned in tonite.
Dover Bitch @ 178
not seeing it.
edwards—obama is very honest his plan will leave 15 million people uncovered. i believe in having everyone covered. his will have many not covered. in both recognize will cost significant $
obama—i agree w second part partly because invest up front in technologies rural hospitals dont have tech but on issue mandatory or not if you look at auto insurance calif 25% dont have cant afford we’re not that different. im committed to starting process we will work on it still some on your plan that
edw—children cannot make that decision
ob—manadatory for children
kucinich—i reject this whole approach half bankruptcy medical bills
TeddySanFran @ 195
AMEN!
Kucinich talking about backruptcy…I wonder if Biden is listening.
DK _ half the bankruptcies in this country due to health care.
Universal, single payer, nonprofit plan only answer.
Mommybrain @ 193
Sorry, misplaced my needles…. ;)
gotta love Kucinich
Kucinich: they’re al for profit health care and I’m for getting insurance companies out of mix
backruptcy = bankruptcy
sheesh!
At $2,000,000,000 a week on Iraq, if we stop that madness we won’t have to raise taxes.
TeddySanFran @ 195
you’re such a dreamer
Was DADT a mistake, Hill? No, it was a transition policy. DADT implemented wrong.
flood of discharges of gays
heh heh
Udated thread, then I’ll move to new thread by 8:00 p.m.
TeddySanFran @ 200
…to the only applause I’ve eard so far tonight. Think anyone will get a clue?
kuc—universal single payer nonprofit supported edwards and obama talking about staying in charge. i’m ready to challenge insurance cos
Q senator you said ok lesbians serve in military was your husband’s policy mistake
hrclinton—transition policy deal w reality since beginning of nation gays serving with distinction. i have watched dont ask tell not going well. discriminatory after gulf war they served then discharged arab linguists when unfortunate we are so short of them. i believe we could change to let gays and lesbians be covered by uniform code military justice if there would be conduct probms not be judged who are. goldwater said dont have to be straight to shoot straight
CTuttle @ 201
Got your back on that. Have my pin cushion ready, including the nice long hat pins.
* POKE *
* JAB *
* STAB *
* PICK *
Oops, was there a chant or spell required, besides STFU WOLFIE?
It will be interesting to read the transcript because although I lean towards Obama, he doesn’t seem to show a lot of passion in this type of format. Every candidate is doing an excellent job. Hillary seems to be getting more time.
Clinton, don’t ask don’t tell a mess. Allowed to serve and then discharged. Not fair. Arabic language gays out. Judge on conduct, not orientation.
Wolf asks if Bill’s plan was a mistake. No, first step.
For Hillary: Was DADT a mistake by your husband?
H: Transitional policy badly implemented and no longer good now. Discharging gay linguists bad idea at this time. Wolf trying to dig at Hillary for Bill’s policy and get her to say it was wrong. Hill not biting…
Quoting Barry Goldwater doesn’t impress me.
You don’t have to be ‘Straight’, to shoot ‘Straight’!!! Gotta love it!!!
Wolfie just looooooves him some Wolfie
Biden: Peter Pace is flat wrong. I been in the foxholes.
Brits, French, Israeli — “are you gay?”
we got a war on our hands, too many people kicked out.
Q but clinton.
hrc—important first step talking about this as a reality. can change w snap of finger. checks and balances congress was adamantly opposed. dont ask tell was compromise policy
Q keep current policy or demoralizing to let them serve openly
biden—pace flat wrong i’ve been balkans etc nobody asked if gay in foxholes. #2 our allies gays openly serve hey let me check, you gay sraight ridiculous. meantime were breaking military not rational policy
Q time to get rid dont ask/tell raise hands all agree
richardson next
JPL @ 213
the clock shows Hill with almost 2x the time of everyone else
We have not raised taxes to pay for Iraq. But we are printing money. Worthless money.
Not a Clinton fan, but she’s right about her answer on Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and there’s no reason she should have to defend or reject what her husband did as President.
Show of hands: Get rid of DADT? ALL raise their hands.
Richardson: Love the civility and senatorial courtesy. I’ll get rid of all this stuff.
Jane Hamsher @ 126
Edwards.
Great audience!
Civil unions getting a big hand from the audience.
Julie Waters @ 223
Agreed, x 2
Oh good, for a minute I thought I wouldn’t get to be a wedge issue. It’s nice to know I have a place in these debates.
richardson—do as governor NM move hate crimes w law domestic partnership laws nondiscrimination sexual. a president has to show leadshipship. should not give lecture on sexual orientation
Q NH allows civil unions HUGE APPLAUSE it is time to move beyond
edwards—great advance federal government doesnt have role whether unions are blessed or not blessed. stand up against intolerance tone of everything discussed. i disagree w all but richardson job of president not to legislate but to lead. who is most likely to lead on iraq, on health care
Edwards: Fed Gov’t should not tell states or churches or religions what amrriages to bless or don’t bless. Leave it to states like NH to do civil unions as they wish
Edward’s hair too slick.
Edwards — it’s the job of the President to lead [interrupted by WB]
TeddySanFran @ 227
Just got passed and signed by Dem gov up there…
when the civil unions issue got applause from the NH audience, Wolfie was quick to try to shut them up.
Richardson, Bill Clinton secretary general of UN.
Oh this is idiotic. What would you do with Bill Clinton — asking all in order not to unfairly single out Hill.
love the question about Bill…!
Loo Hoo. @ 232
Another $400 down the drain… ;)
Why doesn’t Wolfie ask what they’d do with W?
I’d like to hear DK say, “Send him to the Hague!”
CTuttle @ 239
LOL
How would you use Bill Clinton:
Gravel: roving ambassador but he was an idiot for DADT.
Richardson: SEc Gen of UN although prol’ly not possible. He don’t like me now but gaveme great jobs. Clinton for mideast ambassador at large,
Obama: Both answers reflect former pres great strentgh in building alliances. Last six years bluster and saber rattling replaced diplomacy and working together…
Q how use bill clinton
gravel—roving ambassador and take wife. wish he had been like truman who integrated services possible now to stare down immediate integration.
richardson—the ideal job is secretary general UN probably not doable. what i would do. president gave me 2 great jobs ambassador UN and secretary of energy. Middle East our great ally Israel pres clinton pay him back make him
obama—both answers reflect former presidents’ strengths build alliances relationships around world no doubt hilary helped make this happen last 6 years effort to replace bluster sable rattling for solid strategy foresight. must return to recognize we cant simply lead w our military. need alliances middle east how end genocide in darfur senator clinton might have something to say about how i use bill
Understand, once again GOP, this Democratic will support my party’s nominee to be the next Democratic president.
TeddySanFran @ 240
DK is to only one with the intestinal fortitude to dare suggest that!!!
How should they use the Clenis? How about pillow talk?
Hillary; Bill will be used to make friends in the world again.
She’s right, I think.
Hill: I believe in using former presidnets. Bill will be sent around world when I become pres. Not a problem where we don;t need friends and allies and he helps all that…
I’m finding this debate refreshing. Straight out – “national language is stupid” “banning gays ridiculous”
TeddySanFran @ 237
Yeah. On the plus side, now we have the mental picture of Hillary Clinton asking President Shrubya to help out. I’m trying to picture something he can do without hurting himself or someone else. I certainly wouldn’t put a stapler in his hands.
Do modern day politicians use food tasters?
–julie
solai @ 249
that’s cuz wolfie’s questions lead to slapping down for their stupidity.
dakine01 @ 248
Psst, to keep his philandering ways out of the WH, again!!! :O
Hillary believes in using former presidents. I wonder what she would use King George for?
Julie Waters @ 251
stapler? Did someone move his stapler?
Michael @ 254
Door Mat!!!
time allotments way out of balance.
hrc—i believe in using former presidents. need everybody repair damage last 6 yrs. when i become president my husb sent around world roving ambassador. friends allies not a problem where we dont need friends and allies he would be tremendous ally
Q gas prices
dodd—energy related global warning dependence middle east profound require strong answers and incredible opportunities if we have strong leadership. simultaneously reduce dependence oil fossil fuels alternative tech plan by 2017. 50 mpg standard can be done carbon tax polluting fuels more expensive move aggressively solar wind
Q reduce price gas
dodd—when price gets beyond 40 return to consumer or invest in alternative not just price of fuel but polluting techs that cost us so much
gravel—nothing i would do to lower cost of gasoline. these things cost money control our society
Julie Waters @ 251
She qualified it by saying to help with the damage done in the last, by then, 8 years. She wouldn’t be asking Bush for help.
New thread.
Edwards — let’s find out what’s going on with these gas companies. Price manipulation, anti-trust.
CTuttle @ 256
Use him to show the world that we repsect the law. Send him to the Hague.
I hope that CNN asks repubs on Tuesday how they would use George W.
edwards—gas companies making record amounts of money. same people that are refining are selling. need investigation price manipulation. states enforce clean air laws. can america stop spending 3B for oil and gas companies that already make so much.
Edwards: first we need to find out what’s going on with these oil and gas companies. They’re vertically operating driling and refining the gas and make lots of money…
I’m disliking Hillary a little less… but she’s still the candidate most likely to lose in the general election, imo.
One question I would love to have posed to all these candidates: What about the DLC?
Q price gouging?
richardson—solar wind bio give us states authority do price investigation. we need apollo program led by president asking every american to sacrifice conserve reduce imports most aggressive plan 80% reduction
biden—take away subsidy 6B directly to oil companies. investigate whole issue have to do significantly raise mileage cars
Q only getting started. voters in NH asking specific questions while egregious uncramps her fingers
I am moving to new thread.
And for the record,
Fitz!
Justice!
No matter what, do not send Bill Clinton to Canada. He has a girlfriend there.