Texas Democratic Debate

February 22, 2008 at 12:10 am (Politics)
Tags: Clinton, debate, democrats, election 2008, obama, primary, Texas

I would like to begin with each candidates opening statements.

The debate is now over and both candidates still have little to distinguish between the two, policy-wise. There were however some distinctions to be had. Obama clearly stated, in reference to Cuba and foreign policy in general, that he would be willing to meet with our nation’s enemies without preset conditions in order for the meeting to take place. He also added that there should be an agenda behind this, but that the meeting was a part of this agenda of stabilizing the world view from our friends and enemies.

Clinton had a slight edge over Obama on the issue of health care, but in an ideological not substantive way; that is the way her plan is presented is ideologically more attractive than Obama’s. What kept them close on this issue was Obama’s rhetoric and drive to help the American people realize that his plan does not ignore certain individuals but gives them multiple options, government health care as one of them but does not force them to obtain it, which would be an overall better position in the national election.

Other important facets of this debate are Senator Clinton’s attack upon Obama on the recent issue of plagiarism, which not only got her booed, but Obama had a solid defense against. The words he used are from a person who is working within his campaign who suggested to Obama that he use his words.

This attack was not only unfounded but downright not what the people want to hear. If this is how her politics will fare in the general election how will that fare? Clinton seemed to make some ground on this though in her closing statements which were heartfelt and definitely struck an emotional cord with the people in the crowd.

Another key distinction between the two that has been emerging and was only furthered by this debate is how each candidate presents him/herself. While both candidates are very similar in context and substance, the words which they choose help to define how things would be accomplished. Obama has acknowledged in the past and does not deny that the current administration has been a major setback in our government, but he does not constantly refer to Bush, his administration, and party in such a negative light that only serves to polarize the base republicans, where as Clinton has time and time again serves as a polarizing figure to republicans. Be it her shared name with the polarizing Bill Clinton, or what words she chooses to say the fact is the Right really don’t like her and would do anything to see her lose the election.

 

Still Don’t believe me?

Given that and her recent negativity towards Obama and possible polarization of my own party, it is tough to see her as the nominee. Though it was once again a rousing debate that only further made me believe that we may have something to look forward to again in the political process. I of course believe that Obama had an overall better showing than Clinton lacking in my opinion only on the issue of health care, but only by a little. While Obama has a strong lead in foreign policy with a strong diplomatic vision and a strong stance on Iraq from the very beginning. This kind of immediate insight and leadership would benefit us greatly. It seems too little, too late for Clinton.