I'm not a real big fan of debates but the GOP debates in New Hampshire have been a good showcase of Conservative thought. We don't have a perfect candidate, and we will never will. But the combination of Constitutional conservatism, economic savvy, historical context, and fresh Patriotic fervor is like a symposium on the role of government, and what it means to have faith in freedom and the free market.
Pawlenty seems a little stiff. Newt is still a great intellect and, although he will hang up his campaign coat soon, adds a comprehensive understanding of aspects of American government. Romney is a little redundant, rehashing many of his recent speeches. But he appears to be the solid "fix the economy" candidate. Michelle Bachmann looks strong. I would like to hear more from her. Santorum is passionate and unwavering, a fresh face. Herman Cain is an audacious advocate for capitalism. He has a certain "elder statesman" quality. He is the experienced one in the house. Cain has detailed ideas plans to answer the questions about Obamacare, Medicare insolvency, and jobs creation. Cain is unequivocal about his opposition to allowing Sharia law to influence American law.
The audience seems very in tune with the economic issues. The debt limit is being discussed in-depth. Every one of the GOP contenders has something to offer. And as Mitt Romney has asserted several times, "Obama has no plan." I feel proud as I watch this. This, as I said, is an imperfect field. There are a range of ideologies among the GOP candidates. But the quality of the debate has risen out of pop-culture, sound bites, and mainstream media news flashes. These candidates are debating with a depth of Constitutional knowledge that a few years ago was not present.
I give credit to the Tea Party for pulling our candidates back in the direction of our founding roots. I hope Americans, young and old alike, watch this and other upcoming debates. The GOP candidates are giving us a good education about limited government and its enumerated roles in the Constitution.
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