9:40: McCain recounts his history on Iraq. "We will come home with victory and with honor." Says Iraq will be a "stable ally" ...says consequences of defeat would be a "wider war.." .... Obama recounts early opposition to the war....says it was "politically to do so" (it really wasn't, but oh well.) Says Bush and McCain "had a very different judgment." Obama recounts costs of Iraq..."from a strategic national security perspective, Al Q is stronger now than at any time since 2001."
9:39 After 40 minutes on the economy, we turn to Iraq.
9:38: On the economy, can McCain talk about anything else besides spending?
9:37: Obama: "It's your president that presided over this increase in spending...and you voted for almost all for his budget...to stand here for eight years and say you're going to lead on controlling spending....that's kind of hard to swallow."
9:35: Headline of debate so far: McCain Calls For Federal Spending Freeze
9:33: McCain brings up his nuclear power proposal...
9:32: Bringing war to a close, Obama says, is key to a strong economy here at home. First mention of Iraq.
9:31: Lehrer notes that each candidate isn't suggesting any real sacrifices and changes.... Obama notes that his investment in renewable energy might have to be scaled back... Lehrer is incredulous that neither candidates will talk about the major ways in which the financial crisis will effect him...McCain calls for a spending freeze on everything except for defense, veterans affairs.... Obama: "using a hatchet when you need a scalpel"
9:31: Democratic source says Obama answer on energy independence popped in a dial group this source is privy...
9:29: McCain calling for defense cuts....
9:27: McCain on Obama: "It's hard to reach across the aisle from that far to the left..." McCain campaign memo:
DEBATE FACT #3: BARACK OBAMA SUPPORTED BILLIONS IN TAX BREAKS FOR OIL COMPANIES
9:26: Obama's returning to "The American family" or workers in just about every answer.
9:25: Obama admits that "a range of things are going to have to be delayed" next year. But says that energy and health care must be done regardless....Obama campaign sends out memo:
| DEBATE REALITY CHECK: MCCAIN ON DEREGULATION |
9:24: Obama: "I will opposed to those tax breaks and tried to strip them out"...notes that McCain is opposed to energy bill on floor
| 
If you're drinking on "earmark" you may be unconscious already.
From what I can tell over the radio, both are doing okay. You'll agree with the guy you already agree with. No zingers, no getting lost.
Posted by Deborah | September 26, 2008 9:42 PM