Master-Debating

Kenneth W. Chandler

We catch Jim Lehrer explaining the debate rules 10 minutes before it commences. He’s so respected that I imagine myself in that audience feeling threatened, yet somehow secure.

9:03 pm – First lie of the night – we overhear Obama say “good to see you John.” By the way, this is the only time John smiled or looked directly at Obama all night.

9:05 – Lehrer starts out strong – how do you stand on the financial crisis? – I feel like it’s similar to starting out Thanksgiving Dinner with, “so how are those loan payments coming.” Obama says something about Wall St/Main St. and oversight and depression…and…I was hoping for don’t collect $200 and go straight to jail while we were flirting with depressing clichés.

Failure Abounds: More of the Same

Lewis C. Miller

If there were any residual doubts that a John McCain administration would indeed be “more of the same,” the candidate himself put those doubts to rest earlier today.

During an interview with George Stephanopoulos for ABC’s “This Week,” McCain was asked about the extent of the role he played in helping Congress reach a consensus on the “bailout plan” and the claims coming from many Democrats, and even a few Republicans, that his intervention was counterproductive to the process.

 “Whether I helped or hurt, I’ll be glad to accept the judgment of history,” is how the Senator responded. 

It is unprecedented (and almost pitiable) to witness a candidate making such an overt effort to set a disclaimer on a failed presidency that has not yet occurred. And it reeks of George Bush.

Obama’s Concession Speech

Kenneth W. Chandler

While I believe in and am inspired by the presumptive Democratic nominee, I in no way believe he has the Presidency locked up. I am preemptively writing a condensed version of the speech for which I hope do not have to hear, but am prepared for should he not heed his own words and should his followers not engage in the process.

Good evening my fellow Americans. I would like to congratulate President-elect John McCain on his well run campaign, his statesmanship and his undeniable duty to our country. I have no doubts that he will lead with honor and integrity and I look forward to working with him in redefining our nation’s stature united rather than divided.