November 28, 2007
Posted: 10:05 PM ET


Mark Strauss from Davenport, Iowa

(CNN) — Mark Strauss from Davenport, Iowa asks: Mr. Paul, I think we both know that the Republican Party's never going to give you the nomination. But I'm hoping that you're crazy like a fox like that and you're using this exposure to propel yourself into an independent run. Mr. Paul, are you going to let America down by not running as an Independent?

What did you think about the candidates' response to the question? What would you have asked? Add your comment below, or better yet, turn on your camera to record your commentary and reaction video and send in your I-Report. Your comments below or you I-Report video could be part of CNN's post-debate coverage.

Filed under: Ron Paul


Mike Stevens   December 28th, 2007 12:25 am ET

I GOT NEWS FOR YOU ALL

IF YOU DON'T TAKE RAGE TO THE STREET YOU WILL NEVER EVER BE FREE EVER AGAIN

YOU HAVE TO PUT THE FEAR OF GOD IN THEM OR THEY JUST LAUGH AT YOU

IM NOT PRO RON PAUL BUT…. THE PROBLEM STILL EXISTS AMERICANS ARE FAT AND SOFT AND WILL NEVER EVER DO ANYTHING BUT ROLL OVER AND PLAY DEAD

YOUR COUNTRY IS LOST

YOUR FREEDOM IS LOST

YOUR CONSTITUTION IS LOST

HABEAS CORPUS IS LOST

YOUR RIGHTS ARE LOST

WHATS WRONG AMERICA , AFRAID TO GET BLOODY KNUCKLES ?

WOULD BE THE BEST THING FOR ALL OF YOU. A GOOD FIGHT

HOW MUCH MORE ARE YOU WILLING TO GIVE UP ??????????

I AM ASHAME TO BE A AMERICAN CITIZEN

FOOLS + TOOLS = SLAVES

Brendan Shea Glenmoore PA   November 29th, 2007 10:28 pm ET

Mark Strauss was a plant, this was the dumbest and least credible of all the questions asked . This even made the idiot REB from TEXASS quasi credible. Sorry Mark you lost just like dem dumb Rebs lost 142 years ago!

Fawzi Saad, Joliet IL.   November 29th, 2007 8:16 pm ET

After researching Mark Strauss here on the internet, it is blantantly clear from interviews he has given, that he admits that CNN asked him to edit his questions. CNN along with all the other MSM (Main Stream Media) have been posing this question to Ron Paul running as an Independent all week.

What a coincidence, that towards the end of the debate, Mark Strauss, who also asked a question at a CNN-YouTube Democratic Debate was also given a another chance to ask a question in the Republican Debate. That question was clearly designed to hurt Ron Paul's image as a viable Presidential contender.

I will be posting a video on YouTube citing the sources of the articles I found, where questioners on these YouTube videos, including Mark Strauss admit they were instructed to edit their questions.

I hope I get past the censors, but if not, I have a screen shot.

Hemendra Shah, Jacksonville, Florida   November 29th, 2007 7:58 pm ET

why equal time was not given to Ron Paul? CNN is afraid of what? is CNN truely fair and balanced media? I don't think so, CNN cheated on time to Ron Paul, CNN should be ashamed of itself

MARY, RALEIGH NC   November 29th, 2007 7:26 pm ET

Mark Strauss from Davenport, Iowa , I KNOW YOU ARE WITH THE CSD
( CNN SCREEN DEPARTMENT ) LORD DO HELP US ALL AND GIVE THE STRENGH TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE TO STOP BEING EVERYTHING THEY HEAR.
WE LOVE YOU DR. PAUL ( THANK YOU )

Jason King Lynn-Haven Florida   November 29th, 2007 6:24 pm ET

Im very dissapointed that we dont have a single news agency in this country that is non bias. I once considered CNN to be the best source for news but boy was I wrong. Why cant the media give Ron Paul the attention he deserves? Shame on CNN!!!

NoMoreLies   November 29th, 2007 2:25 pm ET

This is a stupid question (more like veiled insult) that the media keeps on throwing at Ron Paul to marginalize him.

Everyone knows that running as an independent is equivalent to bowing out of the race entirely in this broken democracy.

The whole left/right paradigm is a sham. There is only one clear division in the US and that is up/down - that is the division between the people and the establishment!!

Tim Baltimore, MD   November 29th, 2007 1:51 pm ET

Mark Strauss also asked a question in the YouTube Democratic debate.

Who is this guy? I smell a rat. CNN has some explaining to do.

This question was meant to marginalize Paul, but it was disguised as a complement from a so-called supporter.

Roy, Rutherfordton, NC   November 29th, 2007 11:28 am ET

Why all the airtime for Romney and Guilliani? The two most liberal of all the candidates. I think we know the answer.

I thought Paul was being railroaded by this question as well. Glad to see others can see it too. I've switched my registration to Repub so I can vote for the man.

Did anyone else notice that the audience members all appeared to be wealthy? The upper 2%. How about the cheering when McCain said we should continue the war? How does pro=life reconcile with being pro-war?

Be a part of the change. Vote Ron Paul in your state's primary.

ROBERT, RALEIGH , NC   November 29th, 2007 11:07 am ET

CNN YOU WERE THE ONES WHO SPOILED A GREAT DEBATE FOR ME WHEN YOU ALLOWED SUCH A SHALLOW VIDEO TO BE PLAYED…I WAS REALLY HOPING YOUR COMPANY WAS ABOVE THE MOST……BUT……I SHOULD OF KNOWN BETTER.
ANOTHER ABSUED AMERICAN HERE!

Jon Cruz (New York, NY)   November 29th, 2007 10:23 am ET

"THE OLD FASHIONED WAY!" involved candidates chosen at party conventions in backroom deals with no emphasis on primaries.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   November 29th, 2007 10:22 am ET

I don't know where you people get off saying that Ron Paul was cut off or censored. He was given more time than Duncan Hunter (not that he would make it).

ned, new orleans LA   November 29th, 2007 9:53 am ET

The media will try everything to keep Ron Paul under raps.Last night was just sad, but Ron always has a way of making any question they throw at him backfire on them. They are scared of him they know that "WHEN" he gets into office there will be some major changes. And i hope he gets rid of this neocon system of controlled media and propaganda we have.

There are so many people waking up to the truth, and they see that Ron Paul is the only way…it is our future and he is the one that will bring us there with flying colors. Ron Paul FTW

Fred   November 29th, 2007 9:34 am ET

Dr. Paul, please keep running. We need your message of freedom and a return to the type of government our founding fathers envisioned. You are the only candidate courageous enough to tell the truth, regardless of how the flagrantly biased news media ignores or distorts the message of liberty.

Terry, Cincinnati, Ohio   November 29th, 2007 9:01 am ET

I know this comment won't make it, already there are hundreds of reports online of submitted comments being deleted or not posted…(complete with screen shot proof.)

I watched this morning's CNN commentary about the debate, if they mentioned Ron Paul I missed it. It seems with the recent ARAB connection scandal with Rudy being exposed the media has now decided who we should focus on, handing us Mike Huckabee. How odd that the CNN online poll about who won the debate puts Dr. Paul first and Huckabee second.

WE ARE watching, we know that Faux news alters online polls accusing Paul supporters of "fixing" them (you can only vote once)and now we are watching CNN step up to the plate to carry on. Murdock et al in control UP there in media world must be terrified of Dr. Paul because that's the only explanation for what you're doing.

Asking Dr. Paul this question was stupid, he has already explained QUITE clearly that he has no intention of running as a third party candidate. Why not a question about teh abolition of the PRIVATE BANK called the Federal Reserve? What about a question about the IRS? (Huckabee got that question, thankfully he answered it right in line with Dr. Paul's ideas, perhaps they'll be running mates, wouldn't that just pucker the media's lips?)

When Dr. Paul and Huckabee are running against Billary and Obama, the media will either have to pretend only Billary is running or they will actually have to show both sides of the race. That's going to smart isn't it? Being forced to show Dr. Paul and allow Americans to hear what he has to say.

Jim Palmisano, Springfield, Missouri   November 29th, 2007 8:35 am ET

Mark Strauss God Bless You!

Keep doing what you're doing! That's what we want. Make sure the MSM keeps Ron Paul in the single digits in the Polls!

Amazing that several of the other Candidates are now copying Ron Paul's beliefs and platform. They're talking the Constitution, States rights, IRS, etc…

It's extremely laughable that Huckabee(the man that destroyed the Conservative movement in Arkansas singlehandedly and better known in Arkansas as Tax Hike Mike), comes out and says he wants to get rid of the IRS. LOL

CNN applauds him for that but Ron Paul has been saying this for 30 years and was ridiculed only a couple of debates ago for the same statement.

The best part of all of this is that the NEW MEDIA is recording all of this BS and it will be on YouTube in 24 hours.

Keep it coming! You're giving us invaluable footage and the whole world will know what you've done.

Are you sure of what you're doing? You'd better think twice! LOL

This is too much FUN!!!!!

This will be posted Nationwide immediately so you can't deny it happened.

I feel like a kid at Christmas and it's already here and my presents are awesome! ROFL

Ruiz Sealy Tx   November 29th, 2007 8:32 am ET

I thought CNN has been doing a better job than Fox but I see now that you are all alike.

Railroading Ron Paul will just backfire.

Ron Paul 2008

Mary, Beaver, PA   November 29th, 2007 7:32 am ET

CNN is afraid of Ron Paul, just like the media was afraid of Barry Goldwater in 1964. This country has become too much of a socialist empire and has brainwashed too many people in public schools. This is why people who appreciate the individual liberty founded in the Bill of Rights are ignored, marginalized, or vilified by these news organizations and by an electorate who gives lip service to the Constitution and the ideals of liberty but doesn't really believe in them. If the majority of voters really believe that the government of the United States is a metaphor for Mommy, Daddy, and Santa Claus, they deserve the kind of government that they've been getting for the past 40 years.

Alexander, Washington, D.C. USA   November 29th, 2007 5:33 am ET

This was definately a planted question to marginalize Dr. Ron Paul.

I am going to find out who this guy is…

Rick Cox, Lansing, MI   November 29th, 2007 4:52 am ET

There is one major problem with Ron Paul…He is TOO OLD for the job!

Ron Paul will Win   November 29th, 2007 4:16 am ET

CNN lost this debate.

TV news networks beware: We no longer will be watching you…

RM - Austin, TX   November 29th, 2007 4:14 am ET

Shame on CNN for giving Ron Paul such little time, and for not letting him answer the more relevant questions. How is it that Dr Paul gets so little time on a CNN/YouTube debate, despite being a big hit on YouTube? Besides, he's rising in the polls, and he's raising lots of money.

It's not fair for CNN to assume he's not going to win the Republican nomination. Let the voters decide that! But if Dr Paul doesn't win the Republican nomination, I hope he will run as a third party candidate.

I'd love to see a three-way debate between Paul, Clinton, and Giuliani. Dr Paul will tear them to pieces! We know how each of them responds to tough questions. Hillary laughs and dodges them. Giuliani plays the tough guy from NYC. And Dr Paul gives an intelligent, honest answer every time.

John Hancock   November 29th, 2007 3:47 am ET

CNN and they're CIA intern, Anderson Cooper, shame on you. Ron Paul deserves more time.

Roberto,Las Cruces,NM   November 29th, 2007 3:44 am ET

I Can't believe how biased the debate was, I watched the debate hopping to hear form Dr. Ron Paul, no Air time was given to him at all(irrelevant questions). Why sensor a person and their ideas.

i was expecting more from you as a journalist Mr. Cooper. you should allow same time to everyone on issues directed to all candidates.

keeping them honest, right.

what happened to the meaning behind that slogan.

Kevin, Levittown NY   November 29th, 2007 3:38 am ET

Come on people…are you surprised in any way about the way Ron Paul was treated during the debate? Honestly, I'm surprised that he got off as well as he did considering the obstacles and roadblocks that CNN put up for him. In the last 40 minutes of the debate, there were 13 questions. 10 of those were weighed in on by either Guiliani or Romney (the obvious front-runners). Ron Paul spoke on what, 6 questions the entire debate? At least CNN has never claimed to be "Fair and Balanced" like Fox has.

Greg, Dallas, TX   November 29th, 2007 2:55 am ET

This was a fair question, and Ron Paul handled it rather well. If he doesn't get the Republican nomination, it's quite possible that both the Libertarian and Constitution parties will nominate him, if he'll accept. He may not, however, because the DNC and RNC control the presidential debates, setting a ridiculous 15% polling threshold for inclusion. It's hard to reach that number given the media's bias for those whom they anoint. They're not even ethical enough to give each candidate roughly the same amount of time at a debate, let alone in general coverage. But with the amount of money that Ron Paul is raising, maybe he could join Ross Perot as the only one to break the duopoly's strangehold.

Jon, Chicago, IL   November 29th, 2007 2:50 am ET

The question was from Mark Strauss of Davenport, Iowa who also had a question asked in the Democratic CNN-YouTube debate (google him).

Tell me, out of about 8,000 questions (Rep+Dem debates), why did they pick him TWICE?

RonPaulForTheLongHaul   November 29th, 2007 2:44 am ET

Well I have to say I'm not surprised at the deliberate bias shown against Ron Paul at this farce of a debate. Could we have expected anything else from CNN who have continuously ignored Ron Paul throughout this entire campaign even though he clearly has an immense and passionate support base? Has raised more money in a single day than any other candidate? He doesn't need corporate donations like the other CFR cronies because he actually has the support of real people!

And yes folks, the Council on Foreign Relations is real. They are working towards a North American Union. Do a little research of your own and don't rely on CNN to inform you because it ain't gonna happen. Globalization is happening and it does mean the erosion of the USA and the US Constitution.

John Saul, Detroit, MI   November 29th, 2007 2:36 am ET

Even with the obvious lack of time given to Dr. Paul, he still managed to remind me why I support him.

I agree with the other comments.

When is the mainstream media going to figure out that they are dinosaurs? Better wake up quick guys! Ron Paul has SO much more support then you will ever admit, but we're real, and we're here, and we're looking to upset the apple cart.

You can ignore him, you can slander him, but his message is spreading.

Ron Paul 08!!!!!

Hayden Mills, Palm Springs, California   November 29th, 2007 2:36 am ET

Is CNN serious? McCain gets nearly a minute and a half to claim Paul is an isolationist, and Paul gets 30 seconds to respond? And they interviewed this guy after the debate?

Do you seriously think he has a chance as an independent? If there is a Republican candidate, a Democrat, and an Independent, there will not be enough votes from Independents (and few Republicans and Democrats would switch parties - as opposed to NOW, when Democrats and Independents are registering Republican). No electoral college votes, no Ron Paul for President. I don't know if you guys realize this, but we're currently under a two-party system, and it's going to stay that way until someone breaks the mold of what we consider THIS or THAT in someone that represents sides of BOTH as well as the NEW. Having pretty much ALL of the Republican votes would be FAR preferable to grasping for the independent, libertarian, and green minority.

If you truly support the candidate, man up and confront your worst fear (SIGNING UP REPUBLICAN! DEAR GOD NO!) Terrible question that has already been answered, can't believe it was asked.

Jesse, Sugar Land, TX   November 29th, 2007 2:02 am ET

This is so unfair. I can't belive this is America.

Brian, Vancouver, Washington   November 29th, 2007 1:42 am ET

c'mon guys the GOP has surely lost it's way. Ron Paul is here to remind you not the throw away the future of the party, you won't have any young people who support you on the current course.

The Democrats are pretty bad but the current GOP is unacceptable, Ronald Reagan would be disappointed in you.

Gina Strickland   November 29th, 2007 1:37 am ET

I can't believe anyone is surprised that the media ignores Ron Paul, (except the Canadian who isn't aware of our biased media). They have been manipulating the campaigns from day one by deciding who they will show us. They think we are like blind sheep who can't think for ourselves. Unfortunately, some people don't care enough to research and will vote for whoever the media says will win. This apathy is why America is in deep trouble today.

Paul Reno NV   November 29th, 2007 1:32 am ET

Ron Paul is a very convincing person and when I searched his stance on issues I found that he is consistant on all the issues. Everybody else is a flipper look at Rudy and Mitt. They are both the medias darlings, but we the people are not happy with more of the same.

Anonymous   November 29th, 2007 1:16 am ET

At least with Ron Paul in the "debates", we don't have to worry about rigged polls. They just choose not to have one. There's only one reason for that - they know Ron Paul will win it,

Derrick Dees, Angleton TX   November 29th, 2007 1:15 am ET

What a Joke. I only watched the debate because I needed another injection from Dr. Paul. I am only on CNN's site because a wanted to see if the rest of the country realized what our media is doing. Ron Paul is the only hope we have. At least he belives in the internet and it's unregulated state. It is the only real source of truth anymore.

Scott Brickner Tiffin, Ohio   November 29th, 2007 12:54 am ET

A joke of a question. Can't believe this was asked. And agreed with the statements that this debate was practically "rigged" to give airtime to Guiliani and Romney.

I've spent the last two weeks checking into Ron Paul, and I can see why he has started to become a phenomenon lately.

Simply put: He's getting my vote.

He was the only person on that stage that isn't a toadie for the Republican Party and Washington lobbyists. At least he has some guts. Even if people won't like what he says, he will say the truth as he sees it.

To me, all the rest of the talking posts kept mentioning Reagan. Only Reaganite I saw was Ron Paul. Reagan had the brass ones to say what was really on his mind.

Mark C., Winchester, Virginia   November 29th, 2007 12:50 am ET

I agree with the sentiments expressed by many others. The lack of time given to Ron Paul is utterly ridiculous. Why can we not have a debate where the microphones are cut off after the time limit has passed? What CNN, Fox News, and most of the mainstream media is doing is a disgrace to the American ideal. I can't believe the questions - including the one that is the topic of this article - that Dr. Paul was given. What a joke.

Anonymous   November 29th, 2007 12:49 am ET

Ron Paul was treated wrong in this debate. The most intelligent man on the stage got the least time and the worst questions. His supporters have paid for his microphone. It is so obvious you don't want him heard. It's not that he can't win. It's that the media is trying to make sure he doesn't. Sad that media will not let us decide who should be president. I hope none of you responsible claim Christainity.

trin, blackcreek AL   November 29th, 2007 12:48 am ET

When CNN chooses the questions what is free and open about this debate?

The questions choosen by CNN were bias towards candadates the network supports.

Why must everything be so fake and staged with you people.

WHY WON'T THE MEDIA GET REAL!?!?!

THE PEOPLE ARE NOT STUPID!!

WE KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING!

Tom M.   November 29th, 2007 12:43 am ET

Ron Paul Won the Debate according to the reader online poll by CNN as of 12:30 am. 61% indicated they thought Ron Paul won the debate. Check it out and vote online here.

GF   November 29th, 2007 12:31 am ET

I think it is unfortunate that CNN did not give Ron Paul more coverage. It jut show how biased you are. I saw more of Giuliani and Romney, followed by more of Mc Cain and Hukkabee. This was not a fair and equal debate to all of the candidates. There were several questions that solicited a response from ALL of the candidates, that you distributed as you see fit. It is obvious that you are very biased to a few candidates. Shame on you. You have lost my confidence of you being a non-biased, journalistic source of legitimate news.

Aaron, Milwaukee, WI   November 29th, 2007 12:29 am ET

I watched tonight's debate hoping to hear Ron Paul kick some neo-cons butt. What I got instead were biased questions and unfair air time.

I couldn't be more disgusted with how this debate was handled!

roberta farrington santa fe nm   November 29th, 2007 12:27 am ET

I was so disappointed in the debate. I watched it mainly to hear Ron Paul's comments. Why was he given so little time, and few questions? He obviously, is the candidate of many people, and with good reason. Most people I talk to like him, and agree with his opinions. A lot of them have contributed to his campaign. He is such a cut above the other candidates. But who got most of the time–simpy Juliani, and flip-flop Romney–neither of whom I would ever vote for in a million yrs. Ron Paul is the only one who can win aganist Hillary, and yet the Repubs are refusing to recognize that. They have signed their own doom. So many ex-repubs, like me will not vote for any of them(except R Paul). Many Dems would vote for R Paul too. but they are too dense to see it. Oh well, I guess they don't want to win this election.

Adam S Canada   November 29th, 2007 12:02 am ET

As a Canadian, I can honestly say that this was the first actual debate I have ever watched. I have to admit that my main attraction was to see how CNN would conduct it’s broadcast, and if it would hold itself to the true consensus of YouTube community and it’s obvious favored political candidate (Ron Paul). Maybe I misunderstood the generalized idea of the whole concept, because Ron Paul was addressed possibly 4 times for the entire 2+ hours? I am left wondering what the association with YouTube and CNN is meant to represent?

Aaron Hall, Galt CA   November 28th, 2007 11:59 pm ET

I completely agree with Scott J. Hoffman. This was absolutely disgusting how CNN did not give Ron Paul better questions and more exposure to America.

John, California   November 28th, 2007 11:58 pm ET

I believe Ron Paul was asked ridiculous questions. Furthermore, CNN chose to air his ad in the end, rather than the middle or the beginning. That, I found to be insulting as well. As if that's not enough, he was asked very few questions - and most of them were timed for thirty seconds.

Andrea, Seattle, WA   November 28th, 2007 11:55 pm ET

I am so disappointed about the amount of time Ron Paul was given to speak.. more like lack thereof. He didn't speak until at least 30 minutes into the debate, and by that time every other candidate spoke at least twice. And how Giuliani and Romney got to babble past time allowed, when most of the time their answers weren't even directly answering the question. However, what little time Ron Paul was given, he kept his composure and made valid comments that hopefully other people will remember when the primaries come.

Pittsburgh   November 28th, 2007 11:46 pm ET

CNN, it looks like you guys are turning into FOX News.
Congratulations. Fair and balanced.
All I have to say is that I am very disappointed by you giving Ron Paul the least amount of time. What are you afraid of?
We know what you are doing. We are not stupid.

Peter

Kortlan Porter, Tyler, Texas   November 28th, 2007 11:46 pm ET

I think its sad that a major news organization would blatnetly ignore and disregard certain candidates. Im 100% for Ron Paul, but Duncan Hunter was cheated in time as well. There were not 8 candidates at this debate, it was only Giuliani, Romney, Huckabee and McCain, with a little bit of Thompson added in. Not only was Ron Paul cut short of air time, but he was cut short of conterversal issues. Ron Paul is against the Don't Ask Don't Tell policy and against discharging gays and lesbians in the armed services, yet was his opinion asked during the debate? No. They got a stupid answer from Hunter and a hesitant, indirect answer from Romney. This was shameful CNN.

Jason Stoneman Virginia Beach, VA   November 28th, 2007 11:41 pm ET

As my comment was deleted earlier I will shorten this one.
RON PAUL
ok? good enough to post now CNN?
I may be "throwing away my vote", however I will do so knowing I voted for the ONLY one on stage that voted NO to the war (not a constitutional war but a siege and occupation)AND never once waivered on his stand against it. Good luck to you Ron Paul! A little explaination in terms of past independants, a vote for Independant will reduce the votes for Republican. I would say that Paul has made a very strategically sound move.

Robert Worthington, Garland Texas   November 28th, 2007 11:27 pm ET

Mark Strauss asked an important question. He would have a much better chance of winning the presidency if he ran as an independent. The same can be said for Dennis Kucinich. Dennis Kucinich also gets very little time and very few questions to answer. I despise the way CNN conducts the debate. I liked Ron Paul's performance. Though he would not get a republic nomination, he represents change and that is what the American people want and need.

Connie, Reading, PA   November 28th, 2007 11:27 pm ET

I can't believe how they hand picked certain questions to try and make Ron Paul look bad! You are too late CNN we already are standing behind Ron Paul! All you are doing is making more people talk about him! This was so unprofessional of CNN - very disappointed! RON PAUL 2008!

Craig M. Mesa az.   November 28th, 2007 11:23 pm ET

The media in this country is beyond repair. After tonights exclusion of Dr.
Paul I am beginning to believe that Ron's path is going to be that of a third party candidate. The MSM's blatant attempts to silence Ron Paul are only going to create more contempt. This country is in serious trouble for decades to come. A complete change in policy is needed now for us to even have a chance at reversing the downward spiral that we are caught up in. The irony of these debates is that the U.S. economy is going to dictate future policy and there is not one candidate, besides Ron Paul, that even has a clue as to what is taking place. America better start pulling its head out of its ass or else we are going to be first hand witnesses to the likes of a depression that most Americans never thought possible.

Orville Griggs, Madison, WI   November 28th, 2007 11:12 pm ET

CNN: You are pathetic. This was the WORST debate ever, it may as well have been run by FAUX News, you two are now one-in-the-same.

However, the main reason that Ross Perot didn't get any electoral votes was because his VP candidate almost fell asleep during the debate (I am not making this up). RP will bring a much better VP candidate with him when he runs as an Independent 3rd Party and the RP Revolution SAVES AmeriKa for the Neo(Nazi)Cons.

James, Tucson ,Arizona   November 28th, 2007 11:12 pm ET

Anyone with an ounce of intelligence can easily see how Ron Paul was totally ignored and setup in this Debate. The first question about the North American Union was so clearly staged I almost fell off the couch! However, Ron Paul answered it very well Anderson Blue Blood Cooper never gave Ron Paul a chance to respond to 95% of the questions asked. You can tell they are scared of Paul and are doing everything they can to marginalize him. Mcain's little poke at Paul was blown out of the water by Paul when he stated that he has received more military donations than any other candidate. Overall this debate was a joke! The question at hand is….Is America smart enough to see the manipulation? Im starting to think NOT!

Ben Waidhofer, Folsom, CA   November 28th, 2007 11:05 pm ET

It was a tough question, but he hit it out of the park. I thought it was his best moment of the night. He looked a little too pumped up early on. As the debate wore on I thought he struck a nice balance of passion of communication.

MacTaggart, Pittsburgh, PA   November 28th, 2007 11:05 pm ET

Just when you start to think that CNN might be heading down the right path, they prove that they can't be trusted, all over again.

TruthMan, SLO, CA   November 28th, 2007 11:04 pm ET

Cooper Anderson's JUST SAID that there is not a plan for a trans-texas corridor is astounding. GOOGLE: "partnership and prosperity" and see for yourself that indeed what Dr.Paul was talking about is happening. RIGHT. NOW.

I am insulted and thought more of CNN but should have known better.

Jack Benson, Tiburon, CA   November 28th, 2007 11:01 pm ET

Well at least it gave Ron Paul a minute and 30 seconds to have a chance to speak after the railroading before. Something else I noticed. Ron Paul tends to use the word "WE" alot. Amazing.

Jessica, Douglasville GA   November 28th, 2007 10:59 pm ET

I am VERY disappointed in the "Republican" YouTube debate. I only watched the debate to hear what Dr. Ron Paul had to say, and it seems he was cut out. The other candidates have been watching the good Doctors every move, considering they stole most of his thunder. I guess good ideas are contagious. My family and I are supporting Dr. Ron Paul, regardless of CNN's censorship.

Lisa, Conway, South Carolina   November 28th, 2007 10:59 pm ET

CNN this was an unfair format for debate. Questions were selected by CNN which manipulated the directions of the "debate." Some of them were not worth asking (going to Mars???) In addition, certain candidates who are the darlings of the mainstream media were given much more air time than others, such as Ron Paul who only was given opportunity to answer a few questions, one of them being the planted question asking if he'd run as an independent. I believe that average Americans are beginning to see thru all this propaganda & a revolution may be on the way!

Sue, Rockford, Il.   November 28th, 2007 10:57 pm ET

There REALLY is a conspiracy of members of Council on Foreign Relations and ALL belong BOTH Dem's and R's except Ron Paul,Tancredo, Hunter and Dennis K and Gravel! All the rest belong to Council on Foreign Relations WHO ARE FOR ONE WORLD GOV'T! I.E. against soveriegn countries,like America! FACT! PLUS, CNN and Cooper obviously tried to limit Ron Paul! It should have been called the Mitt, Guilani,Huckabee debate instead! Shame on CNN and Cooper too for blantantly railroading Ron Paul! Join the revolution, Vote and support Ron Paul! CNN and Cooper, STOP limiting RON PAUL! Your supposed to be for DEMOCRACY,REMEMBER!? AND THERE IS A TRANSNATIONAL HIGHWAY BEING BUILT NOW! STOP THE NORTH AMERICAN UNION, IT IS FACT, NOT FICTION! IT IS FACT, THAT IS WHY 10 OR MORE STATES PASSED LEGISLATION AGAINST IT! Listen to Lou Dobbs from CNN talk about NAU! It IS REAL! And needs to be STOPPED and NOW! Listen to Lou Dobbs on it!

bilderburglar, Belfast, Northern Ireland   November 28th, 2007 10:56 pm ET

Blatant show of bias on your part, CNN…

Why so little air time for Dr Paul?

Raoul Duke, Erie PA   November 28th, 2007 10:55 pm ET

I think that a good measure of a candidate's performance and public support in a debate is the amount of money flowing into the campaign the afternoon leading up to, during, and immediately following a debate. Unfortunately, the only one providing us with such a measure is Ron Paul. However, beginning this afternoon, he has raised over $300,000 today.

Robert Grosz, Urbana, IL   November 28th, 2007 10:53 pm ET

The political system is biased toward a two party system. There is no way that any third party candidate would receive equal press, no way the candidate would be allowed in a debate, and no way that polling companies would include a third party candidate in their polls or results. This question was planted and completely irresponsible. CNN, if you gave Ron Paul equal airtime, perhaps this debate would have been more satisfying to more people.

Jason Stoneman Virginia Beach, VA   November 28th, 2007 10:51 pm ET

Unfortunately the question, as thought provoking as it is as it leads the informed and educated to recall that the republicans and democrats are but a fraction of the original parties this country had in mind when it wanted a DIVERSE conglomeration of common people that knew the struggles we all go thru and not the rich and powerful, but I digress.
This question if thought about is considered political suicide. The ONLY reason an Independent vote only takes votes from Republicans and in doing so cuts his chances by that amount. He is doing the smart thing, as unfortunate as it is, our current media monsters publicize sensations, not necessarily truth, and Libertarians will only be seen as the “crazy” party. How unfortunate for us all that until Paul came about, we only had bad and worse to choose from. Good luck to you Ron Paul, as this voter may be throwing away a vote on February 18 in the primaries, but will do so knowing that I stood behind the ONLY one that voted no to the war from day 1 when it wasn’t popular to do so.

Kevin, Houston, TX   November 28th, 2007 10:50 pm ET

Disgusting! This HAD to be deliberate. Heck, in the after show with the Iraq exchange between Paul and McCain, they cut the film so Paul's first quote about about having more donations from the troops than anyone else. Anyone else catch that?

Mark, Murray utah   November 28th, 2007 10:50 pm ET

It is an outrage that CNN allowed this question in the debate.
It is obvious, that CNN wishes to harm the Ron Paul campaign!
Shame on you CNN!

W. Gary Johnson, New York, NY   November 28th, 2007 10:50 pm ET

Come to think of it, the Republican establishment never would have given the nomination to Barry Goldwater or to Ronald Reagan. They had to take it by winning primaries, which is what Ron Paul will do. He isn't interested in becoming another Ross Perot, and I don't blame him.

Chris, Pensacola FL   November 28th, 2007 10:49 pm ET

It's funny how MANY videos were submitted IN FAVOR of Ron Paul. MORE than any other candidate.

Amazing they "weeded" out the bad videos to pick this one.

Personally, the won't be an election because aliens are coming to take over.

Yeah I know how that just sounded, but I'm serious. Real serious. I've got the scoop. Get ready.

DJ, LA, CA   November 28th, 2007 10:48 pm ET

Good question…I am glad that was chosen for Ron Paul.

Too bad he didn't get hardly any other questions though to answer from Anderson.

Mike Ray, Austin TX   November 28th, 2007 10:40 pm ET

You would have to have been blind too see that they cheated Ron Paul in terms of time and the quality of questions asked. Its obvious that the Republican Party doesnt want him as a forerunner, but im pretty sure all this will work to Dr. Paul's advantage. His supporters are everywhere, and as long as they dont rig the votes, I dont know how he couldn't win?!

Jonathan Hough, Sedro-Woolley, WA   November 28th, 2007 10:40 pm ET

I think his response was the most conversative I have seen and was quite impressed.

Also, extremely disappointing that he was denied equal air time, resulting in Ron having to attempt to stuff his entire platform into thirty seconds.

That just goes to show you though how legitimate of a constitutionalist he is since he, has in many interviews, defended their right to Air what they like, how they like to.

Donna, Blairsville, GA   November 28th, 2007 10:39 pm ET

I could not agree more with Scott from Ohio. I am so disgusted with how this debate was handled in regards to Ron Paul. It was totally unfair and biased. This country so desperately needs change and Ron Paul is the only man for the job.
Shame on you CNN! And you too, Anderson Cooper!

Brandon, Gahanna, Ohio   November 28th, 2007 10:38 pm ET

Freaking awesome question. At this point in time, I'd vote for Ron Paul over any other candidate currently running on both sides of the aisle.

PGL, Boston, MA   November 28th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

Why didn't you ask what Ron Paul had for breakfast? That would be just about as pertinent as this question.

Presuppositions shouldn't be used in questions. It's dead give away of bias and reflects poorly on CNN/YouTube to allow such a question to be posed.

J R Herbert Orange Beach AL   November 28th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

The CNN moderator was miserable. Someone would ask a question to all of the candidates and he would direct it to either Romney or Guiliani and then give one of the second-tier right-wingers — but in no case Paul — 30 seconds.

Shame on CNN.

Jonathan Hall   November 28th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

I was shocked CNN was so blatant in their censure of Ron Paul. He was not allowed to weigh in on the issues that mattter and was given the least overall time. And notice the after-debate poll was left out this time because they know Ron Paul would win.

Richard, St. Paul, MN   November 28th, 2007 10:36 pm ET

Considering the cronyism and corruption inherent in BOTH parties, it's about time the Independant voters and candidates are able to put forth an alternate vision for America, to keep it from decaying into the Republican version of 'Amerika'

Anna, Brooklyn NY   November 28th, 2007 10:34 pm ET

CNN should truly be embarrassed by the content of this debate. Who cares which baseball team Guliani favors, that’s not an issue! They completely shafted Ron Paul in every way and despite his growing support they continue to undermine his candidacy . Ron Paul’s campaign and stance deserve equal coverage, do a service to your fellow Americans and let him have it.

Chuck Cavanaugh, Las Vegas, Nevada   November 28th, 2007 10:29 pm ET

Why did CNN permit Ron Paul so little time to speak? It was a very unfair debate. It got so bad that I thought he probably ought to have just walked off the stage and gone home.

Sue, Rockford, IL.   November 28th, 2007 10:29 pm ET

CNN should be ashamed but they AREN'T and also moderator too should be ashamed! Nothing like railroading Ron Paul and NOT giving he equal time to speak! While letting Mitt, Guilani and others run over on their replies! It's WRONG! SO VERY WRONG! HOW MANY TIMES MUST CNN AND OTHER NEWS OUTLETS TRY TO SHUT OUT RON PAUL? HOW MANY? JOIN THE RON PAUL REVOLUTION NOW! LET'S HELP TAKE OUR NATION BACK AND NOW! SHAME ON MAIN STREAM MEDIA TRYING TO SHUT DOWN RON PAUL! Fact there IS a conspiracy of Council on Foreign Relations and they ALL belong to it, except for Ron, Tancredo and Hunter, Dennis K and Gravel! All the rest are members of treasonous Council on Foreign Relations who want one world govt! FACT! And I dare CNN to post this! They need to!

Greg Gilbert Escondido CA   November 28th, 2007 10:28 pm ET

Ron Paul wouldn't have to run as an independent if so-called news organizations would give the candidates equal time. Ron Paul is the only one with something different to say and he had the least amount of time to speak.

JOSH, NEW TROY, MI.   November 28th, 2007 10:28 pm ET

AT LEAST YOUR QUESTION FIRED RON PAUL UP..

Philip Crocker, Hesperia CA   November 28th, 2007 10:25 pm ET

This question was completely unfair to ask of any candidate. What is CNN afraid of?

Speed, South Bend, IN   November 28th, 2007 10:24 pm ET

Ross Perot was the closest "we" ever came or probably ever will come to electing a third party candidate.

And he got, what, zero electoral votes ?

Change the system and run AS a third party candidate, don't bail on your party if you don't get your partys' nomination !

Erik Viker, Selinsgrove PA   November 28th, 2007 10:23 pm ET

How sad that America seems so unaware of viable alternatives to the "big two" political parties other than running as an independent. Congressman Paul was the Libertarian Party candidate for president in 1988, and should he not get the GOP nomination, many of us certainly hope he'd consider running as a Libertarian again. The LP is the third largest political party in the U.S. party by all objective measures.

Casey, Phoenix AZ   November 28th, 2007 10:21 pm ET

Mark Strauss, you are a tool with too much dependency on what you are fed by the AP. Show some courage and actually stand up for Ron Paul if you truly want him as President, but you don't. It was a planted question and seemed way too rehearsed.

Matthew, Cave Creek, AZ   November 28th, 2007 10:21 pm ET

Dear Ron Paul,

America needs real change. You are the only one who is offering that to us.

We need you. There is big pressure not to have you win the Republican nomination.

Please consider running as an independent as your support is coming from all parties and from people who have never voted before.

2012 will be too late. America is in a state of emergency now.

Richard, St. Paul, MN   November 28th, 2007 10:20 pm ET

Independant is the way to go. Staying 'true' to the party, regardless of party, is like marrying the first person you sleep with…. incredibly stupid!

Scott J. Hoffman, Perrysburg OH   November 28th, 2007 10:19 pm ET

CNN, you should be ashamed of yourself. This was the most disgusting attempt to railroad a candidate I have ever witnessed. Every question given to Ron Paul was some ridiculous piece of garbage. Ron Paul's video was saved to the very end of the debate and then squeezed between questions. I am disgusted that you would even dare to call yourself a news organization after a stunt like this youtube debate. You are simply a propoganda machine, and nothing more!

spencer phillips, lakeland florida   November 28th, 2007 10:17 pm ET

He is right about them never giving Ron Paul the nomination. But only because he is GOING TO EARN IT THE OLD FASHIONED WAY!

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