The first PRE- debate debate included the seven candidates excluded from the first DEBATE.

Some didn’t do so well.  They simply failed to “stand out” in the field with a presentation that would compel voters to support their candidacy.  Included in THAT group are Gilmore, Pitaki, Santorum and Graham.

Someone has apparently told Graham that he can win support by using the phrase “They hate our guts”.  It didn’t work.  Neither did his attempt to take on the Clintons.

Santorum’s 20% flat tax proposal fell flat.  If he is right on other policy issues, he is flat on his presentation.

Jindal’s grasp on Medicaid expansion was clear, but his response was not sharp and concise.

Pitaki vowed to de-fund Planned Parenthood and support Roe v Wade.  Hmmmm….

Gilmore was just not very impressive.

Perry stumbled with his first response.  He had some moments, but seemed a bit unsteady through the discussion.

Fiorina easily won the discussion with her responses to the questions.  She was confident and clear.

Obviously, the campaign is not yet over.  These candidates could find their stride and move forward in the race. It was important, though, for them to make brake through in some way during this first opportunity.  It was called a debate.  It really wasn’t.  It was really a discussion that gave these candidates the chance to make their case.  Most of them didn’t.

Most closing statements (rehearsed, memorized two minute commercials) lacked the inspiration needed to move to a winning campaign.  Carly Fiorina did the best job from start to finish.  She wins the debate.

 

Fiorina deserves to be on the bigger stage.

***Gordon Howie is an author and CEO of Life and Liberty Media***

     “It’s not about right or left, it’s about Right or Wrong.”

 

 

 

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