Most voters didn’t watch the “early” debate.

They didn’t miss much.  Graham, Pataki, Jindal and Santorum took the stage but probably not any new votes.  While Graham was declared the winner, winning the early round probably didn’t win much.  The CNBC  “junior varsity” of media with their less than compelling commentary and presentation provided the “half time” show.

On to the big show.

Paul, Christi, Cruz, Fiorina, Carson, Trump, Rubio, Bush, Huckabee and Kasich, all in a row.

On the heels of the House removing the debt ceiling, instability around the world and

Kasich gave the first non-answer with a stumbling, scripted response that had nothing to do with the question.  “What is your greatest weakness” was probably one of the weakest questions that could have been asked in view of all the pressing issues.  Fiorina, Cruz and Christi were most effective and likeable fielding the question.

Trump was trump, but really seemed to be somewhat softer and gentler as he responded to direct questions that were hostile in tone.  Carson wasn’t very convincing with his tax plan.  Kasich came prepared to be aggressive and combative.  It isn’t a very winning strategy for him.  Trump took him to the cleaners in the first round.  Cruz won the debate on tax plans as he rolled out his proposal for a flat tax.  Fiorina talked a good game but didn’t really roll out a clear proposal.

Rubio was also the recipient of a hardball/hostile question about his being AWOL from the Senate and flipping on immigration.  He handled it will enough to get a rousing round of applause.  Another positive audience came from his response to an attack from Bush.  Bushes turn at dealing with a tough question came next.  His answer didn’t produce a base hit.  Fiorina was on the hot seat about her history with Hewlett-Packard.  She spouted lots of data to support her performance as CEO, but it didn’t offer any new fire.  Senator Cruz took on the medium panel regarding to their questions, to the delight of the audience.  The panel, didn’t like his response.

Christi accused the government of lying to and stealing from the American people, with regard to Social Security.  He was right.  Huckabee gave a resounding “me too”.

Christi gave some clear and concise answers, and generally, performed pretty well.  Nothing new with Huckabee.  Bush didn’t do any damage to his prospects, but didn’t really gain any ground.  Fiorina was her articulate, pleasant self, but didn’t bring anything new to the party.  Rubio spent a good deal of time playing defense.  Kasich might have a good plan.  If he does, he could use some help creating a compelling presentation.  Cruz shined through the night with his ability to present and communicate effectively.  Carson doesn’t generate much excitement, but does not alienate.  When one of the moderators persisted in attacking Carson, the audience jeered at him, to which Carson said, “They know”.  Indeed, they do.

Best closing statements…  Cruz, Paul, Trump, Rubio, Fiorina, Bush, Huckabee, Kasich, Carson and Christi in that order.

Still in the game… Trump, Carson and Rubio in that order.

Could still get back in the game…  Paul, Bush, Christi and Fiorina in that order.

Should go home… Huckabee and Kasich

The winner??? Senator Ted Cruz on substance and presentation.

The loser???  CNBC

***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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