The foreign policy-focused, third and final debate caught me a little off guard last night. I could not figure out why Romney, at the outset, did not zing Obama on Libya. And other times I thought, "Why is he giving the President a pass?" But it all became clear as the debate went forward and I kept thinking, "Man, is Romney calm," and "Why is Obama so snarky?" And as reports are coming out today, we are learning Romney's strategy was calculated and executed to perfection. [Smile] That is why THIS guy is qualified to be President. He knows how to look at the big picture and I thought his entire debate performance showed he has the capacity to lead this country.
Here is a brief rundown of my thoughts:
Obama: The media thinks he won it. I think he may have earned "points" during the debate, but I was frustrated at his outright lies (sequestration, status of forces agreement, Romney on auto bankruptcy, Romney's tuition scholarships, etc.), but I believe he again appealed to his base, so of course they will be happy. I also thought he seemed like he knew what was going on around the world - he should since he's been briefed daily since he was sworn in. I think he maintained his position with voters - probably not too many voters won or lost on this one. I also continue to be baffled at his lack of strategy for his second term...because hiring teachers and making our schools "Number one in the world...in math and science," does not give me enough detail to vote you a second term. I appreciated Romney's calculated response, "Attacking me is not an agenda." Indeed.
Romney: I have been a Romney supporter for a while (towards the end of the primaries), but this debate made me REALLY LIKE him...and see him as a class-act, a leader and a Commander-in-Chief. He was well-versed and knowledgeable about world issues. He was relaxed, cool and calm. Where the President seemed snarky and childish (with a few of his low-blows and personal attacks at Romney), Mitt took the high road...figuratively and literally. He didn't even try to go back and defend Obama's remark about "bayonets and horses", which evidently some military members are a little miffed about today because they still use bayonets and horses...a lot. Despite Mitt not taking Obama to task on the Benghazi attacks, I was glad he talked about the "apology" tour, and Obama's discussion with Medvedev (Russia's President) and how Obama will have more flexibility after this election. I especially liked Romney bringing the focus back to the economy and our national debt. I hope most Americans can see he's completely correct: our debt will undermine us as a nation - prevent us from funding our military as needed, keeping our nation safe, and helping with peace-keeping and humanitarian efforts across the world. America will not be a nation of liberty and freedom and a beacon for the world if we don't have cash.
In Summary: Again, both sides are going to say they won. To suggest votes will be won or lost, I'm not so sure. But folks who still don't know Mitt, could certainly see him as the leader he will be: calm, calculating, smart, and above the fray. Charles Krauthammer said it best, "Romney went large, Obama went very, very small, shockingly small." I want a President who can focus on the big picture. I want a president who does not get wrapped up in petty accusations, snide remarks and childish asides. Personally, Obama turned me off...I just don't see what people "adore" about him. I have a hard time understanding how he can demand respect and validation from the American people when he treats his challenger with such disrespect. I also think Obama's attitude can be enlarged to a global scale: as he mistreats our allies and friends around the world and demeans our own nation, how can our country demand respect from the global community? I just don't see it. Romney can lead - and he WILL lead successfully. He has a thoughtful, calculated plan and Obama, as usual, has words, rhetoric and attacks Romney's plan. I hope the American people are smart enough to see content. Substance is what really matters.
I hope the next two weeks aren't too unbearable for us all. Expect the claws to come out! The polls are so tight. And here in my own state, the polls for governor are so close. I am on pins and needles. So much excitement! Whatever your political leaning, just make sure you vote!! VOTE VOTE VOTE! Get 'er done!!
Very well thought out post. Whoever ends up winning and at this point, I think it may just be Romney (although in all honesty I did not vote for him) I hope and pray that our country and we as citizens will be the real winners.
ReplyDeleteI want everyone to read this post! Well said and understandable. Everyday I found out something more about Obama or his team that makes it even more clear to me that WE NEED A CHANGE. And at this point, Romney is the best option for that change. He is not perfect, no one is. But like I said previously, just like any other job, if you are not performing, you are fired.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing as important as the defining of marriage. For those of us who are married the definition is set and understandable and has been for generations, leaving no doubt about what marriage is, what it has been and what will continue to be in the future.
ReplyDeleteFor those who desire something else, as in same sex unions the issue of fairness is a common cry for more than equal, giving to them what has been for thousands of years restricted to those who pursue the divine union designed by God. It is true that even marriage between men and women have seen some depredation of late, governments, and principalities performing seemingly loving ceremonies that do not include the sacred observances.
Love alone does not create a trifecta bond so important in establishing a marriage, marriage is so much more and the word alone should be reserved for those whose desire the precepts important to attain that level of commitment.
Others can call what they choose anything else they wish but the word Marriage is reserved for those not only with love in their heart but for a plan that allows for procreation with a God supreme.
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