TV REVIEW: 1-5-08 ABC New Hampshire Debate

Tonight was the Super Bowl playoffs for political junkies like myself. It was the ABC New Hampshire Presidential Debate, a four hour debate with both the Republicans and Democrats.

Hosted by Charlie Gibson, the first half saw the Republicans. It began as the “Let’s gang up on Ron Paul” show. Every time he spoke, the rest of the nominees giggled and then took turns attacking him. It looked like a group of bullies taking on the weakest kid in school. Sure, some of what he said was goofy, but some of it ( financial issues, the trillion spent in Iraq) did make sense.

Then, it turned into the “Let’s gang up on Mitt Romney” show. John McCain got in a few digs, some that felt a bit inappropriate at times. At one point, McCain talked about Romney “spending his fortune” on attack ads.

I do have to do one personal note of some of Mitt Romney’s figures. He stated that under his state health care plan, premiums went from $360 to $180. Living in MA, and a part of that health care plan, that $180 level is the lowest level and doesn’t cover prescription coverage (which will be mandatory according to the law either later this year or next year). I’m at the next level of the plan, and with very high deductibles, it isn’t something I think Gov. Romney has. There are other plans in the program, but they are more than that original $360 a month he quoted.

After the Republicans finished, the most interesting thing happened. The Democrats came to the stage and both parties greeted each other. That was an interesting moment. There were even hugs exchanged between some of them.

The second two hours were the Democrats. With a new poll showing Obama and Clinton tied, it was do or die time for Clinton. And, after a brief lull, she tried to come out swinging, claiming that Obama had changed his positions on many issues, raising her voice in the process.

Like Indiana Jones in RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, when he was faced with the swordsman, and just shot him down knowing the fight wasn’t worth it, Obama just spoke quietly, saying they may disagree on issues, but they didn’t have to resort to attacks and distortions. Edwards (who seems to already be running for Obama’s VP) quickly agreed. And, Clinton quieted down.

The rest of the night was issues based, little fireworks. Clinton never really did get that knockout punch she needed. And, Obama gave some specifics on his plans (something others have criticized him for). It was pretty much his debate to lose, and he did very well.

With the Golden Globes and possibly the Oscars on hold, I sure am glad this is an election year. These debates are a lot more interesting to watch, not to mention a lot more important.