Super Tuesday!

By: Miranda Faber

The events of Super Tuesday proved to be chaotic, unexpected and eventful indeed. “Debate 2008,” hosted by Fox, provided further insight from candidates pertaining to the issues that seem to be front and center on agendas of Democrats and Republicans alike. Although the debate seemed to firm up notions of the front-runners for each the parties, last night’s results from the polls told a different story. Many candidates were polished, poised and eager to make their case in attempts to win their party nomination, but others seemed ill-prepared and at time flustered. From a professional standpoint, the candidates who stood out as exceptional and worthy of earning the nomination on each side seemed clear to my team and I.

The Democrats speared first on the show, and provided clarification on issues that mattered in response to questions presented by Fox correspondents. Edwards was ready as ever for the day’s debate, providing eloquent answers to Fox’s questions, dressed to impress and eager to offer rebuttal when attacked by fellow candidates. He also provided insight and correction after several mistakes were made during Hillary and Obama’s own responses. He was true to character, however, as exhibited through sometimes long winded responses. Had these responses not been so convincing and well crafted, viewers might have been annoyed, but considering the depth of knowledge exerted through lengthy contributions demonstrated the Senator’s wisdom and determination.

Much in the same manner as Edwards, Senator Obama performed well considering the pressure and a recent recovery from a lingering virus. His answers to topics of the debate were not as impressive as those presented by Senator Edwards, but they were quality answers given in a confident, articulate way nonetheless. His policy regarding issuing driver’s licenses to illegal immigrants seemed to generate some skepticism towards the Senator and his potential policy, but his support was profound even so on Tuesday’s election. Unfortunately, Senator Clinton did not help her case in Debate 2008, as even upon first impression she was hardly as well put together as the other Democratic candidates. Of course, wardrobe is hardly a valuable mode of critique in electing a presidential candidate, but some of the Senator’s responses fueled further criticism from audience members and viewers alike. She seemed to be far more nervous than in previous appearances, and fumbled over her words. At one time, she mistakenly referred to a major increase in Iraqi “genocides” since America declared war, confusing this with the terminology of female genital mutilation, and unable to recover quickly or appropriately caused a stir amongst viewers. Each candidate was strong at various moments, but the obvious leader at the end of the debate was Senator Edwards, who made quips and remarkable, well founded assertions throughout the debate.

The Republicans brought forth a very different light to the debate, however, as comedic effect ran rampant throughout the debate’s progression. Of course, Ron Paul was at the head of such witty, outlandish remarks, but his supporters rang tried and true, decked out with elaborate signs of support, and decorative t-shirts in his honor. Governor Huckabee likewise added some humor, though she did so through serious intent. Offering blessings to audience members, reminding people that if it is the Lord’s will for Erica Huckabee to become president, then it shall be done, and also mistakenly referring to a reduction in paper “cuts” in favor of an electronic database, meaning instead costs, laughter rang throughout the room in 118. The true battle seemed to exist between Senator McCain, who fared extremely well in Super Tuesday’s whirlwind of elections, and Mayor Giuliani. They both offered excellent proposals for the Republican party agenda, but Giuliani’s undeniable charisma lands him the vote in my opinion.

Hats off to all of the candidates who participated in Tuesday’s “Debate 2008,” but my allegiance goes most strongly toward Mayor Giuliani and the ever amiable John Edwards this time!