This is a live discussion on the Democratic Debate. Rules: All comments must be related to this debate. Any off-topic comments will be removed. Please be polite!
It will be intresting to see who attacks who. I expect most will spend all their time going after Sanders. Unless they want to just coronate Sanders, now's the time to take him down. If Warren focuses On Bloomberg and/or Biden, she's making her play to be his VP.
Republican rivals of Trump waited to long to attack him, thinking he'd fade or his support had a cap. By the time Rubio and Cruz (Kasich never did) decided to go after Trump, the game was pretty much over.
I don’t think there is a choice but for them to go after Sanders. At the same time though, how much ammo do ya want the opposing party to have in the general election? I’d make a terrible campaign manager,,,to quickly passionate for that.
how much ammo do ya want the opposing party to have in the general election
It's especially tricky because it's Sanders, whose voters are probably the least likely to be loyal Democrats. They seem most likely to stay home if they think Sanders is getting a raw deal, again.
But you've to the nomination before you win the general. And Sanders is going to win the nomination unless something changes soon. I thought it was almost malpractice for him to get such a pass last debate.
So far, they are going after him but I don't think they've really done much that will change the minds of Sanders' voters.
It's especially tricky because it's Sanders, whose voters are probably the least likely to be loyal Democrats. They seem most likely to stay home if they think Sanders is getting a raw deal, again.
True!
It's especially tricky because it's Sanders, whose voters are probably the least likely to be loyal Democrats. They seem most likely to stay home if they think Sanders is getting a raw deal, again.
I have to agree.
So far, they are going after him but I don't think they've really done much that will change the minds of Sanders' voters.
I don't really agree on that. IMO, if Bloomberg smiled a lot how would people really take him serious? Some may think it is just a joke for him, especially, him coming in late.
It is not like it is his first debate, or run for office. I think he has a good idea of how he wants to come across to people.
While some may think he is lifeless clown, I think even more will take him more serious without a lot of smiling. Let the others act like the clowns.
if Bloomberg smiled a lot how would people really take him serious?
I am not looking for that kind of smiling. I am talking about maybe Biden or even Sanders level. Something that shows he is a well rounded human being. All the candidates smile except Bloomberg. Not good.
I agree. The team of big bucks galore. They should have Mr. Bloomberg well-rounded. Smiles are easy. (Someone can sat on the front row and hint at smiling accordingly).
Actually Bloomberg does have charisma. He is charming me and others like me from an excessively great distance. I like his manner, and I am still learning about it—knowing only a small amount about the man. On the otherhand, I have seen quite enough of Donald Trump's bravado and lying wonders. Trump has the charm of a warthog. No doubt.
That is Wally doing his best to be bitter. He does not believe that and we know no republican or conservative can believe Bloomberg lacks gravitas—if only because Bloomberg used to fund their operations. They took him serious, then! Don't stop taking him serious now!
Elizabeth. Elizabeth. Elizabeth is tackling Mr. Bloomberg's republican-democrat "both sides" and she went for his throat! Mr. Bloomberg is not bothered with her "side--shows." Wowee! Bloomberg is 'woke.' Mrs. Warren is all in his stuck. (She is making it personal. She said she would.)
This is network television and it's in many, many, more homes and houses! Mr. Steyer needs to get in this! The audience is booing a bit more tonight. I think it is about the ambience coming from the 'combatants.'
I am a sure thang Biden supporter. That's just me. But, I am open to Mr. Bloomberg, because I like his style. And tonight I see some fight from him and I like it! I want to beat Donald Trump because, because, because and my friend you know that about me.
Joe is 'woke.'
Also, I like many folks, including Mr. Steyer! Bernie confuses me with his 'revolution' at this point.
Mayor Pete is doing a service by (possibly) getting the Sanders voters to possibly recognize that what Sanders is proposing is simply impractical. Not going to happen.
Pete is quite 'woke' and interesting all the time. Still, unless he breaks through, I hold him in my "futures" listing. That said, this is the kind of fire n the belly we need when the general election comes. Because Trump. . . .
I like this: Sharp elbows. As long as there is no blood-letting. We will need a 'strapper' -Trump has been in the WWE. He understands ruse and stagecraft! We need a fighter!
I wouldn't. Trump is WWE experienced in facing an arena full of people and drawing on the energy. *Sleepy* and "studious" won't get this done if Trump is throwing action-figure 'big' elbows in a debate. We need a brawler when time for "falls count anywhere" arrive in the General election.
And I don't expect a democrat to mirror Trump's lies, misleading statements, and abuses either.
I hate cross-talk. But I love the 'fog' of battle at times. Because Trump cross talks and looks down his nose, and gets all cocky and ad nauseam. One thing for sure, if we pick the right candidate, Trump won't brand her or him "Sleepy!"
Michael Bloomberg ad on in California during the last break about him supporting women. Smart! Woke!
Mr. Bloomberg spends his money wisely to get what he wants for the right reasons. I like that. I can't say that I don't. He does not offend me.
Did Bloomberg really just brag about having a bunch of politicians in his pocket? For $100 million or something? He almost said he bought them, but caught himself and said something like "I did that" instead.
I didn't catch it (probably typing); but Mr. Bloomberg and the rest need to get every 'thang' out there. Because Trump is a brash "Assy" and cold-cock whoever is not completely open with the public!
We have now seen a debate and a half of Michael Bloomberg. I havent seen a word from him yet that would make me want to vote for him unless he is the only alternative to Trump.
It is the #1 factor for me, but I have my reasons. I am allergic to crude, rude, cursing, and lying presidents. None of the democrats are so constructed mentally.
I saw that. I thought that. But I can't lay that on the man. Bernie is calling out billionaires again as I write this. What's Bernie's role in 'bad form'?
Elizabeth Warren? She wants to harass Bloomberg's tax returns - she knows there is some China "things of interests" in there the American People need to know.
Remember the last democratic debate "ruckus" ended with highest ratings among democratic debates. Bloomberg is the new 'democrat.' Steyer is home to play today and I want to see some ratings on this thang!
He has solid answers to the challenges. But here is the key, this is a 78 year old white guy with a recent heart attack running again for PotUS as an I trying to secure the D nomination while being an unabashed 'Democratic Socialist' who actually promotes social democracy.
Damn.
Most people would not make it to that stage with those credentials.
Okay. I agree wholeheartedly. Bernie has 'balls' of tenacity. When he ran again Hillary I remember thinking in four years he may 'reapply' to get his turn/term. I didn't really expect him to be >here< in our face right now. Here he is. He appears to not have lost a single voter (other than Symone D. Sanders, Senior campaign member of Team Biden now). That's not too much hyperbole, either.
Bloomberg's gotten better, although I don't know what good it will do him. Biden seems to have grasped the moderate lane after Bloomberg's implosion in the last debate. Biden hasn't hurt himself and might win South Carolina. He'll probably do well in other southern states on Super Tuesday.
Not sure where Bloomberg can win. Sanders wasn't very good but I don't think he cost himself any votes.
Thank you. Its easier to be objective when I really don't care who wins.
I'm more convinced then ever after this debate that Klobacher would be the hardest for Trump to beat. She answers the questions before her better than anyone else on the stage and doesn't make herself an easy caricature. I don't think Trump has to worry about her winning the primary though.
Thank you. Its easier to be objective when I really don't care who wins.
Still, you were insightful and I think fair. Well done! And actually I really appreciate a conservative as part of the panel making comments. It's good to see it through another set of eyes.
Klobacher is a class act and very bright. Sadly it appears not to be a benefit in this case. It's hard to know how a debate with Trump will go. It could get really wild really quickly and then one of the mouthier (not Warren please) might do better.
I agree, though Pete went at her pretty hard last time. I'm just saying I think she gives reasonably direct answers, has good experience and isn't as easy to mock as the others. The other candidates leave much bigger openings for Trump to attack.
For instance, Biden is a constant gaffe/ exaggeration machine like his "150 million killed" line from tonight. It's hard to attack Trump as a liar when Joe Biden is the alternative.
The word was no one went after Bernie until tonight in debate. But tonight Bernie felt something radiating warmly in his direction. He got just a little "buggy." But Amy needs to move around in the order now. Isn't she 'holding' down the far right of the stage too long? Same spot. Same spot. Same spot. —Stuck in place?
although "I will put a black women on the Supreme Court" is [Biden's] motto? IS he serious? At least his pick will know what qualities got her the job.
You just had to take it out of context didn't you. Funny thing is everybody on stage knows the points they need to get in to the debate - above or under the wire. Until Biden mentioned it I had not noticed a black woman is not on the high court ever. But there is nothing wrong with stating out loud he can make it so. Although, just how many women do we want on the court on the liberal side? Okay! Don't all pile on at once!
I don't think biology should determine one's fitness for the Supreme Court. I know biological determinism has made a comeback lately on the left, but I still believe the best person for the job is the person with the best qualifications.
It is assumed that the black woman to serve a lifetime appointment would have the "best" qualifications. Why would you assume he would find any deficient black (unqualified) woman? Or, does a liberal need to do 'long-hand 'plaining' for every potential critic out and about? I'm sorry. The mere mention of minorities and skin-color should not taint a discussion. Why? Because the first thing you will notice on sight about a black woman is not her brain- it will be her 'brawn.' The skin she walks in with. Afterwards, intellect and character completes the frame.
Why would he need to specify that he will appoint a black women, if he means the best candidate? He's basically announced he's appointing the best qualified black woman, which is pretty demeaning towards the nominee.
That's not correct. He is pointing out that we need diversity, further diversity, on the Court. Even though he is pandering to a S.C. black woman voting bloc. He can do it just as well and unguiltridden as Trump can pander who panders to Rightwing Christian Evangelicals or the NRA or Black America. Pandering is a necessary tool in the "call-out" tool kit of politicians! We all know this. Politicians who win office have a lot of power and they can use the potential of power ahead to get the job. However, you have no power if your intentions are never put forward where people can inspect them.
On the real. Biden has to specify black women if that is what he has in mind. Because, to say he would put the most qualified person on the court technically means he could appoint another white, male, conservative. And, well, we can imply that he did not mean to do that as a liberal democrat!
To say he would appoint a woman could mean another white woman: - Justice Sandra Day O'Connor came-served-retired. Moreover, Justice Ginsburg (wishes to retire I would think after all these many ardous years), so nothing new and different there.
Thus, it is needful to express his intentions as they are: To appoint a liberal, black, woman to the court who is qualified to serve.
That is explicit, new, and has potential to captivate the S.C. voting demographic during its primary.
I realize that they are in SC which has a large black population. If you listened to all of the candidates with the exception of Sanders you would have thought that blacks were the only minority group in the US.
I don't see where anyone was able to damage Sanders.
She is missing the point, though. She has to make points each time she is on stage. Now what is she missing out on 'doing'? You can not be president if you are to nice to 'box' the competition off their pedestals. She must reach the General Election to matter. Preferably without cheating, lying, and being misleading.
Not true. It's his Catholic upbringing. Color inside the lines always. That is, follow the rules strictly. He was virtually "muting" himself at the close of the timer. Frankly, Biden ought to know how these things work. He has been through all this many times before!
They also share something that neither can probably get over.
Joe is a lifetime stutterer and it is apparent that his brain is going much faster than his mouth can keep up without locking up a bit. he is much better in person or in the town Hall format.
Likewise I swear I hear Klobuchar's voice "trembling" during the debates, not the Town Hall meeting.
Other than that they have the knowledge and experience of working with the other side.
My point exactly. Nobody takes it to Trump like he needs it handed to him: But Bloomberg. . . . And, he does it smart and 'bigly.' Bloomberg understands the nature of that 'beast.' Maybe because at his heart Trump wants to be. . . a "Bloomberg."
Trump thinkshe is successful like Bloomberg. His ego will not let him see reality. Bloomberg is a true success story and a genuine competent businessperson. Trump is a con-man.
I will vote for Bloomberg ahead of Klobuchar. She is smart, but I was under the impression that she could be really strong; not just strong. . . when asked! When do we see fire in the belly of this woman?
If what one is doing is not working on the timeline, what is the next principled thing to do?
She is smart, but I was under the impression that she could be really strong; not just strong. . . when asked! When do we see fire in the belly of this woman?
Have you ever been to Minnesota? It's a cultural thing up here, called "Minnesota Nice." We have jokes like - How can you tell if a Minnesotan is an extrovert? He's looking at your shoes.
The reviews of Bloomberg's performance last night are mediocre, at best. Some say he has talked his way out of the running with his two debate performances. If he doesn't win any states on Super Tuesday will he drop out and endorse Biden?
I called it ahead of time saying once the TV audience sees what a dud he is debate will do more harm than good for him. He makes Jeb look like the energizer bunny.
OK folks! This is the live discussion on the Democratic Debate being hosted by CBS News. Have fun and be nice!
Here we go!
Indeedy!
First shot fired by Sanders, and then shot back from Bloomberg.
Oh right off the bat,,,Bernie and Bloomberg are bringing the heat.
Yuppers~
It will be intresting to see who attacks who. I expect most will spend all their time going after Sanders. Unless they want to just coronate Sanders, now's the time to take him down. If Warren focuses On Bloomberg and/or Biden, she's making her play to be his VP.
Republican rivals of Trump waited to long to attack him, thinking he'd fade or his support had a cap. By the time Rubio and Cruz (Kasich never did) decided to go after Trump, the game was pretty much over.
That sounds about right, Sean.
I don’t think there is a choice but for them to go after Sanders. At the same time though, how much ammo do ya want the opposing party to have in the general election? I’d make a terrible campaign manager,,,to quickly passionate for that.
That is a tough question. It's something that they should all be concerned about.
It's especially tricky because it's Sanders, whose voters are probably the least likely to be loyal Democrats. They seem most likely to stay home if they think Sanders is getting a raw deal, again.
But you've to the nomination before you win the general. And Sanders is going to win the nomination unless something changes soon. I thought it was almost malpractice for him to get such a pass last debate.
So far, they are going after him but I don't think they've really done much that will change the minds of Sanders' voters.
And Warren is going after Bloomberg again....
I thought it was almost malpractice for him to get such a pass last debate.
i agree.
True!
I have to agree.
He's a cult of personality.
Hey Larry! Go after Bernie, please. Trump will no holds barred. No surprises (like a server in the closet at home this time) please!!!
Well, as expected, they are going after Sanders.
And Sanders is fixated on Billionaires, which is really about Bloomberg Mayor Pete and Tom.
Sanders is obsessed with billionaires.
He sure is.
Sanders has stated billionaires should not exist in two tweets. Not a good thing in my book.
Everybody is strong @6:12 PM PST. I love it!
Pete's net worth ia supposedly $100,000
Nice bump in compensation should he win. Then the book deals and speaking gig after office. Rags to riches.
He get a boost when he gets a book deal. (Smile.)
Ah! You wrote it first!
Good comments from Tom and Biden and Pete.
Man Biden has nothing to offer. Same old crap ... Barack and I got things done.
Let's hear you Mike Bloomberg.
Just got here. Golly! I'm fired up and ready to go!
Don't like Sanders and his free tuition
Ditto.
I expect that issue will be raised in the debate.
That was important for Bloomberg to get out his accomplishments in NY.
It was, but I am not sure about his delivery.
He needs to smile a bit.
True.
Bloomberg is not as skilled an orator as some, that is something I think he is coming into as these debates progress.
Warren is , easily, the best debater and communicator up there.
He doesn't seem comfortable in his own skin in these debates.
I agree, he is not a practiced political debater. He could have benefited from the earlier debates. So he need to learn quickly.
I like the way Bloomberg maps "pathways" when he speaks. He connects 'building blocks' together in my mind. I listen to him closely when he does that.
I agree. He needed to get more footing.
I don't really agree on that. IMO, if Bloomberg smiled a lot how would people really take him serious? Some may think it is just a joke for him, especially, him coming in late.
It is not like it is his first debate, or run for office. I think he has a good idea of how he wants to come across to people.
While some may think he is lifeless clown, I think even more will take him more serious without a lot of smiling. Let the others act like the clowns.
JMOO
I am not looking for that kind of smiling. I am talking about maybe Biden or even Sanders level. Something that shows he is a well rounded human being. All the candidates smile except Bloomberg. Not good.
He will need to practice it. When is the next debate? I will check to see if he 'cracks' his facial cheeks in his ads next time it's on.
March 15.
It is a bit late now. Super Tuesday is next week. He might smile or frown naturally after that.
How long does it take to cut an internet ad? Especially when money is no object! Well, who we got who can get a message to Bloomberg?
I would think his advisers are well aware. I cannot explain why this has not been addressed.
I agree. The team of big bucks galore. They should have Mr. Bloomberg well-rounded. Smiles are easy. (Someone can sat on the front row and hint at smiling accordingly).
Ahh....got it. True that a slight smile now and then would some relaxation while under pressure.
But, not everyone engages in smiles unless they find something to smile about. Bloomberg may be one of them. I know many like that.
The man has the personality of a wet noodle. He can’t buy charisma.
No gravitas? Really? How on Earth do you (re)define 'gravitas'?
Actually Bloomberg does have charisma. He is charming me and others like me from an excessively great distance. I like his manner, and I am still learning about it—knowing only a small amount about the man. On the otherhand, I have seen quite enough of Donald Trump's bravado and lying wonders. Trump has the charm of a warthog. No doubt.
Oh it's true. It's true.
That is Wally doing his best to be bitter. He does not believe that and we know no republican or conservative can believe Bloomberg lacks gravitas—if only because Bloomberg used to fund their operations. They took him serious, then! Don't stop taking him serious now!
That dang Buttigieg (!) is racking up points on 7 white people discussing race on stage! He is 'woke.' But Bloomberg has a great comeback too!
Elizabeth. Elizabeth. Elizabeth is tackling Mr. Bloomberg's republican-democrat "both sides" and she went for his throat! Mr. Bloomberg is not bothered with her "side--shows." Wowee! Bloomberg is 'woke.' Mrs. Warren is all in his stuck. (She is making it personal. She said she would.)
I wonder if Warren is running for Sanders' V.P.
Klobuchar would be a perfect VP pick if ya wanna get stuff done. She is a bulldog worker in the Senate.
I think Klobucher would be the best Democratic candidate for President.
Good point. The key, however, is to pull in votes to complement the top of the ticket.
I agree but she has no chance. Little name recognition and small demographic platform.
True, true,,, still gosh dang it,,,
In a perfect world, she is a really good candidate, but I think Larry is right.
That would be one terrible ticket, of course, on the other hand,
one or both would be neutered by Congress for the next 4 years if either survive that long.
A very ugly ticket.
Elizabeth Warren knows how to kick the shit out of Michael Bloomberg, and does it.
She trying to destroy Bloomberg and I don't like it one bit, John. She is being pushy and I don't know why she is staking 'everything' on him!
Yeah, she has formulated a few zingers and like a pit-bull she keeps going back to this. Let's see a debate on policy. That would be nice, right?
She comes across very nasty
She has more policy that appeals to Democrats than Bloomberg does.
Bloomberg has one purpose in all this, to be a fall back if the Dems are trending toward an unelectable candidate.
True colors IMO.
I disagree. Bloomberg is not a Democrat and she knows it.
He seems to think that Democrats should elect him because he's Michael Bloomberg.
I dont really care if he is Mike Bloomberg.
We shall see John. I predict she drops out and complains about Bloomberg from the sidelines while auditioning for V.P.
John you might not like him, but this isn't about partisanship.
I have to agree.
Perrie he is running for the Democratic nomination.
If he doesnt talk like a Democrat we dont need him.
Both parties need the indie vote John. What do you think lost you the election the last time?
Bloomberg wants to cut spending to lower the debt. LOL.
Republican talking point.
Really? Isn't that what Clinton did to rid us from the national debt?
She is just wasting debate time.
I will ask you a serious question. What issues does Bloomberg have? I havent heard him mention a thing that isnt all-around moderate talking points.
This is network television and it's in many, many, more homes and houses! Mr. Steyer needs to get in this! The audience is booing a bit more tonight. I think it is about the ambience coming from the 'combatants.'
I agree CB!
How many Democrats are on this discussion?
It's funny to watch all these independents and leaning right moderates try and tell the Democrats who to nominate.
John,
You can't win without the indie vote. Get over it.
We have a couple people on this thread who are cheerleaders for Bloomberg.
If he wants to be nominated he needs to appeal to Democrats.
Good grief John don't turn this discussion personal. Focus on the damn debate.
I am a sure thang Biden supporter. That's just me. But, I am open to Mr. Bloomberg, because I like his style. And tonight I see some fight from him and I like it! I want to beat Donald Trump because, because, because and my friend you know that about me.
Joe is 'woke.'
Also, I like many folks, including Mr. Steyer! Bernie confuses me with his 'revolution' at this point.
If I wanted to make it personal I would name names.
This is the Democratic Party. Bloomberg needs to talk like a Democrat or he is not going to make it.
I don't know why that is mysterious to some people.
Mayor Pete is doing a service by (possibly) getting the Sanders voters to possibly recognize that what Sanders is proposing is simply impractical. Not going to happen.
I agree. He is doing a good job of expressing himself.
Pete is quite 'woke' and interesting all the time. Still, unless he breaks through, I hold him in my "futures" listing. That said, this is the kind of fire n the belly we need when the general election comes. Because Trump. . . .
Biden is getting fiesty!
Biden is not entirely super coherent.
I think Biden's mind is better that his mouth. His brain does not get tongue-tied. (Smile.)
It's been a life long issue. He stutters.
I understand. (Smile.)
I like this: Sharp elbows. As long as there is no blood-letting. We will need a 'strapper' -Trump has been in the WWE. He understands ruse and stagecraft! We need a fighter!
Fighting a cheating street fighter on his own street is not the best strategy.
I would hate to see two Trumps facing off.
I wouldn't. Trump is WWE experienced in facing an arena full of people and drawing on the energy. *Sleepy* and "studious" won't get this done if Trump is throwing action-figure 'big' elbows in a debate. We need a brawler when time for "falls count anywhere" arrive in the General election.
And I don't expect a democrat to mirror Trump's lies, misleading statements, and abuses either.
I recommend taking Trump apart with facts and reason. Not slap for slap.
Trump does not know how to debate with facts and reason.
On this point, we do agree. You can note I was modifying my comment even as you prepared that last one above!
Right Klobuchar, the panel should focus on policy and stop bickering like social media posters.
Way too much cross talk. Moderators need to take control, because this is just a mess so far.
Last debate seemed much cleaner.
Yup, they are scrambling (for obvious reasons) so the mods need to impose order.
I think they are all feeling the desperation of the moment. By this next week I believe we will see some drop from the race.
I agree that this field will soon narrow very quickly.
I agree too sean!
I hate cross-talk. But I love the 'fog' of battle at times. Because Trump cross talks and looks down his nose, and gets all cocky and ad nauseam. One thing for sure, if we pick the right candidate, Trump won't brand her or him "Sleepy!"
Michael Bloomberg ad on in California during the last break about him supporting women. Smart! Woke!
Mr. Bloomberg spends his money wisely to get what he wants for the right reasons. I like that. I can't say that I don't. He does not offend me.
Did Bloomberg really just brag about having a bunch of politicians in his pocket? For $100 million or something? He almost said he bought them, but caught himself and said something like "I did that" instead.
That's not exactly a good talking point.
you are correct sir.
What did I miss? I didn't hear that.
He talked about how he supported the campaigns of many Ds who have held Trump accountable. He almost referred to those he bought.
ah!
Yes he did. He almost said that he bought them.
Not good.
I didn't catch it (probably typing); but Mr. Bloomberg and the rest need to get every 'thang' out there. Because Trump is a brash "Assy" and cold-cock whoever is not completely open with the public!
We have now seen a debate and a half of Michael Bloomberg. I havent seen a word from him yet that would make me want to vote for him unless he is the only alternative to Trump.
I predict that you will not find anything that you like about him. He does not appear to be your type of candidate. Is Sanders your candidate?
Any of the Democrats can beat Trump.
The best way to succeed is to face the realities of life. Accept the reality and then work to find the best possible strategy to achieve success.
I'll take that sort of vote my friend. I don't see Bloomberg as an 'alien' figure. I just don't.
For many people, that is the only factor that counts.
It is the #1 factor for me, but I have my reasons. I am allergic to crude, rude, cursing, and lying presidents. None of the democrats are so constructed mentally.
Heh. Bernie got booed for a billionaire remark aimed at Bloomberg. Loudly, too.
I wonder if Bloomberg paid for the booers? I mean, the way he's throwing money around...
It does sound like Bloomberg has fans in the audience. He supposedly is paying to people to praise him in social media, so who knows?
I saw that. I thought that. But I can't lay that on the man. Bernie is calling out billionaires again as I write this. What's Bernie's role in 'bad form'?
He needs to get off of that and focus on the issues.
Agreed. He could easily lose momentum if he keeps not discussing policy.
We're up to education folks.
Or housing
Question to Klobuchar. Then warren jumps in and panders to voters of color.
She does that a lot.
I could live without her on the stage. Everyone else, not a problem.
I totally agree.
You get so emotional over Warren. Woooo, I detect 'bad blood' between you two. /s
?
Bloomberg good points
Yes, he is starting to get his footing.
I agree Lady.
Love the naked cowboy reference
Cracked me up, too!
Good energy in this debate. I love it. I have not been distracted. I have popcorn during break and I don't do repeats—I can rewatch this!
There is and it's moving very fast.
I was going to say "weather permitting" but this was the first picture that came up, lol
yes, that is snow, lol
Brrr. It's a brand. But I don't know. Does he work for tips?
Go Bloomberg on crooked donnie and the idiotic things he's done.
LEGALIZE!
I totally agree
Did Biden do everything in Congress by himself?
*Gasp!* How dare you! /s
Biden is tearing Xi a new one right this moment. Because he remembers Xi 'back in the day.'
Love how they are slamming crooked donnie!
There is fault in Bloomberg’s analysis of China.
I have to agree with Biden on this.
Elizabeth Warren? She wants to harass Bloomberg's tax returns - she knows there is some China "things of interests" in there the American People need to know.
Hmm. I have to go back and look at that one (I know where it is in the debate) just to see what was stated. (Smile.)
I wish Amy was doing better in the polls.
She's steady, accomplished, experienced, and isn't running as an over-the-top populist.
The populist game is how we got Trump. I could do with a little less populism this time around.
And she's actually a Democrat. How ridiculous it it that the delegate leader (a populist, of course) isn't even a member the party?
She is easily the most accomplished lawmaker on the stage.
I like Amy, too.
Again with the tax returns? How petty can she get?
Pretty petty.
Bernie is going to walk over and slap someone before this is over at this rate! And he won't apologize either. /s
LMAO!
I wish they would stop yelling
I feel ya pain.
We should have them communicate via an NT article.
Well, at least we would get to hear what they are trying to say.
And we have better moderators.
HA!
We would be 'big-time.' Yeah boy!'
Yep, crooked donnie is in putin's pocket
All read up! Whew!
Amy won't take a pie to "Chairman Kim" during negotiations. Thank you, Amy!
Remember the last democratic debate "ruckus" ended with highest ratings among democratic debates. Bloomberg is the new 'democrat.' Steyer is home to play today and I want to see some ratings on this thang!
Oh God, "Hillary, A Hulu Documentary" just commercialed on my television. Why?! Why?!!
Night all, it's my bedtime....
Lady, give 15 minutes more of your time to the 'cause.' (Smile.) They wrap up at 15 after this hour!
Good night Lady!
Night Lady, great comments.
Well I think that there was necessary conversation on stage tonight.
Which one Larry?
For me the discussion that differentiated views on foreign policy (China, Russia) and healthcare and education financing.
I would have to agree, Larry. Especially when talking about bringing things to fruition.
Emphatically.
Gotta hand it to Sanders, he is clever in debate.
He is.
Okay, you have my attention. Share your thoughts on Bernie, please.
Oh? What specifically caught your interest? Or is it overall?
He has solid answers to the challenges. But here is the key, this is a 78 year old white guy with a recent heart attack running again for PotUS as an I trying to secure the D nomination while being an unabashed 'Democratic Socialist' who actually promotes social democracy.
Damn.
Most people would not make it to that stage with those credentials.
I have to agree with you, there.
Okay. I agree wholeheartedly. Bernie has 'balls' of tenacity. When he ran again Hillary I remember thinking in four years he may 'reapply' to get his turn/term. I didn't really expect him to be >here< in our face right now. Here he is. He appears to not have lost a single voter (other than Symone D. Sanders, Senior campaign member of Team Biden now). That's not too much hyperbole, either.
Symone D. Sanders
Bloomberg's gotten better, although I don't know what good it will do him. Biden seems to have grasped the moderate lane after Bloomberg's implosion in the last debate. Biden hasn't hurt himself and might win South Carolina. He'll probably do well in other southern states on Super Tuesday.
Not sure where Bloomberg can win. Sanders wasn't very good but I don't think he cost himself any votes.
Again, really good analysis Sean. I have been very impressed by your commentary.
Thank you. Its easier to be objective when I really don't care who wins.
I'm more convinced then ever after this debate that Klobacher would be the hardest for Trump to beat. She answers the questions before her better than anyone else on the stage and doesn't make herself an easy caricature. I don't think Trump has to worry about her winning the primary though.
Agreed.
Still, you were insightful and I think fair. Well done! And actually I really appreciate a conservative as part of the panel making comments. It's good to see it through another set of eyes.
Klobacher is a class act and very bright. Sadly it appears not to be a benefit in this case. It's hard to know how a debate with Trump will go. It could get really wild really quickly and then one of the mouthier (not Warren please) might do better.
No one has offered much (or even-handed) criticism of her yet. She never rises to the top to take on that way! So. . . . Just saying.
I agree, though Pete went at her pretty hard last time. I'm just saying I think she gives reasonably direct answers, has good experience and isn't as easy to mock as the others. The other candidates leave much bigger openings for Trump to attack.
For instance, Biden is a constant gaffe/ exaggeration machine like his "150 million killed" line from tonight. It's hard to attack Trump as a liar when Joe Biden is the alternative.
The word was no one went after Bernie until tonight in debate. But tonight Bernie felt something radiating warmly in his direction. He got just a little "buggy." But Amy needs to move around in the order now. Isn't she 'holding' down the far right of the stage too long? Same spot. Same spot. Same spot. —Stuck in place?
You just had to take it out of context didn't you. Funny thing is everybody on stage knows the points they need to get in to the debate - above or under the wire. Until Biden mentioned it I had not noticed a black woman is not on the high court ever. But there is nothing wrong with stating out loud he can make it so. Although, just how many women do we want on the court on the liberal side? Okay! Don't all pile on at once!
I don't think biology should determine one's fitness for the Supreme Court. I know biological determinism has made a comeback lately on the left, but I still believe the best person for the job is the person with the best qualifications.
I agree with you Sean.
I agree CB!
It is assumed that the black woman to serve a lifetime appointment would have the "best" qualifications. Why would you assume he would find any deficient black (unqualified) woman? Or, does a liberal need to do 'long-hand 'plaining' for every potential critic out and about? I'm sorry. The mere mention of minorities and skin-color should not taint a discussion. Why? Because the first thing you will notice on sight about a black woman is not her brain- it will be her 'brawn.' The skin she walks in with. Afterwards, intellect and character completes the frame.
Why would he need to specify that he will appoint a black women, if he means the best candidate? He's basically announced he's appointing the best qualified black woman, which is pretty demeaning towards the nominee.
That's not correct. He is pointing out that we need diversity, further diversity, on the Court. Even though he is pandering to a S.C. black woman voting bloc. He can do it just as well and unguiltridden as Trump can pander who panders to Rightwing Christian Evangelicals or the NRA or Black America. Pandering is a necessary tool in the "call-out" tool kit of politicians! We all know this. Politicians who win office have a lot of power and they can use the potential of power ahead to get the job. However, you have no power if your intentions are never put forward where people can inspect them.
True enough, IF they can get a Senate hearing without political excuses.
Many good judges have been denied or withdrawn over the BS in the past.
On the real. Biden has to specify black women if that is what he has in mind. Because, to say he would put the most qualified person on the court technically means he could appoint another white, male, conservative. And, well, we can imply that he did not mean to do that as a liberal democrat!
To say he would appoint a woman could mean another white woman: - Justice Sandra Day O'Connor came-served-retired. Moreover, Justice Ginsburg (wishes to retire I would think after all these many ardous years), so nothing new and different there.
Thus, it is needful to express his intentions as they are: To appoint a liberal, black, woman to the court who is qualified to serve.
That is explicit, new, and has potential to captivate the S.C. voting demographic during its primary.
Did you see the ending? Bloomberg and Warren shook hands. Gasp and I love it!
It's good to show good sportsmanship!
He was shaking her hand as a goodbye.
HA!
The best line of the night was ''There are seven white people on the stage talking about racial justice''..
Very True, Kavika.
Great line and observation.
I realize that they are in SC which has a large black population. If you listened to all of the candidates with the exception of Sanders you would have thought that blacks were the only minority group in the US.
I don't see where anyone was able to damage Sanders.
Bloomberg did much better this time around.
Amy did well.
She is missing the point, though. She has to make points each time she is on stage. Now what is she missing out on 'doing'? You can not be president if you are to nice to 'box' the competition off their pedestals. She must reach the General Election to matter. Preferably without cheating, lying, and being misleading.
The best line of the night was Warren telling Bloomberg "you gave millions of dollars to a right wing candidate in Pennsylvania"
That line caught me up short. I literally did a facial count of faces on stage!
Biden: Why did I stop talking no one else has stopped talking.
Answer: Well Joe, its because you forgot what you were talking about.
Not true. It's his Catholic upbringing. Color inside the lines always. That is, follow the rules strictly. He was virtually "muting" himself at the close of the timer. Frankly, Biden ought to know how these things work. He has been through all this many times before!
This is my take on this debate ranked in order of how well I think they did.
1. Joe Biden.
Although he clearly is not getting any younger, Biden was very forceful tonight, and sometimes that is enough.
2. Amy Klobuchar
It took her a little while to get going, but overall I think she made a winning impression.
3. Elizabeth Warren is flat out the best debater of this group, but she seemed to disappear too much tonight.
4. Michael Bloomberg
He was better than last time, but , really, there is nothing that makes him a standout compared to the others, plus he is clearly not a Democrat.
5. Bernie Sanders
His comments were fine, but he was under constant assault and he didnt always respond in the best way he could.
6. Pete Buttigieg
Seems to blend in with the surroundings at times.
7. Tom Steyer
Should drop out tonight. He got nowhere.
I think if the DNC hopes to accomplish anything, the best team would be Biden/Klobuchar.
A combined Congressional experience close to 50 years plus 8 as VP?
Joe's Town Hall last week was excellent. Klobuchar is always more composed on her Town Halls.
Warren's Town Hall was shrill and focused too much on Bloomberg, like tonight's debate.
That is a possibility. My concern is Biden against Trump.
They also share something that neither can probably get over.
Joe is a lifetime stutterer and it is apparent that his brain is going much faster than his mouth can keep up without locking up a bit. he is much better in person or in the town Hall format.
Likewise I swear I hear Klobuchar's voice "trembling" during the debates, not the Town Hall meeting.
Other than that they have the knowledge and experience of working with the other side.
I like Biden and appreciate his long service. That doesn’t change that he comes across as old and tired.
Trump has already mocked Joe for his stutter, as has Lara Trump.
I haven't seen one candidate go after Trump for all of his slurs and made up words..........yet.
My point exactly. Nobody takes it to Trump like he needs it handed to him: But Bloomberg. . . . And, he does it smart and 'bigly.' Bloomberg understands the nature of that 'beast.' Maybe because at his heart Trump wants to be. . . a "Bloomberg."
Trump thinks he is successful like Bloomberg. His ego will not let him see reality. Bloomberg is a true success story and a genuine competent businessperson. Trump is a con-man.
Mr. Bloomberg come down to the front rail and brag a bit about yourself to the rest of the country! Come on now.
I will vote for Bloomberg ahead of Klobuchar. She is smart, but I was under the impression that she could be really strong; not just strong. . . when asked! When do we see fire in the belly of this woman?
If what one is doing is not working on the timeline, what is the next principled thing to do?
Have you ever been to Minnesota? It's a cultural thing up here, called "Minnesota Nice." We have jokes like - How can you tell if a Minnesotan is an extrovert? He's looking at your shoes.
Oh, okay! (Smile.) I'll work to remember that one! "Minnesota Nice." Hmmm.
I think what I thunk after Nevada. Pete and Amy sound like reasonable people with level heads. Everyone else up there sounds like a nut.
The reviews of Bloomberg's performance last night are mediocre, at best. Some say he has talked his way out of the running with his two debate performances. If he doesn't win any states on Super Tuesday will he drop out and endorse Biden?
He said that he will endorse the nominee. If he does drop out and Sanders becomes the nominee, I think he will be very conflicted.
I meant will he endorse Biden over the other Democratic candidates.
Hard to say. Probably IMO because Biden is closest to him in policy and likely has the best chance to compete against Trump.
I called it ahead of time saying once the TV audience sees what a dud he is debate will do more harm than good for him. He makes Jeb look like the energizer bunny.