Democratic Debate - Live Blogging

Well, I'm watching the debate and I'm not impressed. This is my first attempt at "Live Blogging"....

VOTING RECORD

They are getting wrapped around the axle about their records. Each one picks a post vote of another candidate and criticizes it. When the person tries to defend themselves they have two problems.

1) They might not remember the facts of that particular bill. If they mispeak, they will be called on it later, if they don't comment, they look weak.

2) There might have been a good reason for them to vote how they did, but it can't be summed up in 30-90 seconds. The attack is a quick and clean sound bite for the evening news, the defene is awkward and detail oriented.


HEALTH CARE

Now they are on health care. Hilary got her sound bite and AND criticized Obama on his past votes. They are arguing over mandatory insurance, and both Clinton and Edwards think it will help to FORCE people to get coverage when they can't afford. Obama thinks those who want and need it will get it if they can afford it even if it is not "required". None of them address how it will become affordable or better than now.


IRAQ

Now they are on Iraq

• Clinton - Will start pulling troops within 60 days of taking office. Nearly all out by end of the year.
• Edwards - ALL troops out of combat in first year, no permanent bases
• Obama - Says money could be used for "boardband lines" (sounds like "let them surf the internet" to me)

Clinton is opposed to Bush's plan to make deals with Iraq about bases. Clinton says it's a treaty and would need Senate approval. I haven't heard anything on this, but she sounds right.

Now a commercial and intermission...