Last Debate Leaves No Guidance for the Caucus

Thursday night had the last Primary Republican Debate of 2011, but it didn't leave any lasting impressions. Gingrich, as the new front runner, was sort of the star of the show. His past and principles were attacked, but held is ground in the most amicable way possible. Bachmann seemed particularly keen to knock him of his game, but it proved in vain. As he now leads the polls in Iowa, it would have been nice for her to steal some of his support.

And that is what this debate was truly about, getting as many polling numbers as possible before the candidates are forced to hit the road and become entrenched in every city or small town Iowa has to offer. The first caucus is held January 3rd in what is briefly the most important state in America. The results can make or break the political ambitions of any presidential hopeful.

Currently, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul and Mitt Romney lead the polls in Iowa. Not surprisingly, these men got both the most speaking time in the debates, and the most challenges. Paul's libertarian views are closer to Tea Party mentalities than most appreciate, but conservatives still easily attack him for his social and foreign policy tactics. However, as with every other debate so far, the collective scapegoat was Romney. Everyone comes at him to both bring him down as the consistent opponent, and to reiterate their own policies.

When closing arguments commenced, it was obvious how much spirit each speech was trying to condense into the last few minutes. It was the final chance for a candidate to reach a large number of voters, and appear the most coherent and intelligent. Still, any Iowan Republican didn't need to hear these final appeals, or watch the debate at all. Everything said had been heard about twelve times before.

Jason Clayworth. 12/16/2011. Final Pre-Caucus Clash Provides No Victors. Des Moines Register

http://caucuses.desmoinesregister.com/2011/12/16/final-pre-caucus-clash-produces-no-victors/