(CNN) - The CNN Political Ticker is live blogging the CNN Florida Republican Presidential Debate in Jacksonville. Check here for live updates throughout the event and be sure to follow @PoliticalTicker, @CNNPolitics and use #CNNDebate.
Participating in Thursday's debate are former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum, and Texas Rep. Ron Paul.
10:39 p.m. ET – Read the full transcript from tonight's debate here.
10:29 p.m. ET – @EWErickson: Live by the debate, die by the debate. Romney got the better of Gingrich and Gingrich is probably locked out of a FL win. Will be tough.
10:10 p.m. ET – @JohnKingCNN: Sen Santorum working crowd after #cnndebate. His now famous mom standing by w/ staff and family. http://t.co/YAE2XJsH
10:09 p.m. ET – Read a transcript of the third 30-minute chunk of tonight's debate here.
10:06 p.m. ET – Speaking to CNN Chief National Correspondent John King, Santorum said he was the first candidate to campaign in Florida. Santorum said he had raised twice as much money in the past three weeks than it had in the first nine months of the campaign.
10:03 p.m. ET – Speaking to CNN Chief Political Analyst Gloria Borger, Romney said he had a "terrific" debate. When asked about his attacks, Romney said "When I'm shot at, I'll return fire. I'm no shrinking violet."
10:02 p.m. ET – Following the debate, CNN National Political Correspondent Jim Acosta and CNN Political Editor Paul Steinhauser take you inside the spin room.
10:00 p.m. ET – Blitzer closed the CNN Florida Republican Presidential Debate and said good night.
9:58 p.m. ET - Gingrich pointed to his role in Republican takeovers of Congress, and said the election was a "big choice" that would go to the core of who America is.
Santorum said his values were consistently conservative, and that he had stood for values that were often unpopular.
9:54 p.m. ET – Paul cites national polls that show him competitive with Obama. Said he's for limited government, an idea popular with Americans.
Romney said he was for dramatic change in Washington that would allow economic recovery. Said he was on the outside and knew how business worked.
9:52 p.m. ET – Last debate question to candidates before Tuesday's primary: Why are you the one person on stage to beat Obama?
9:50 p.m. ET – Read a transcript from the second 30 minutes of tonight's debate here.
9:46 p.m. ET – @OpenSecretsDC: Ppl in Jacksonville have given $362,550 @MittRomney so far this campaign, far more than any other candidate http://bit.ly/xSzoJg #CNNDebate
9:46 p.m. ET – Paul said his religious beliefs wouldn't affect his governing. Said he would only be beholden to his oath of office.
Romney said he would seek "guidance of providence" in making big decisions.
Gingrich said he would look to God because the job carried such large responsibility. Said there was a war against Christianity in America by secular elite.
Santorum said rights come from God, and that the role of government was to protect rights.
9:45 p.m. ET – Question: How would your religion affect your decisions as president?
9:44 p.m. ET – Santorum praised Puerto Rico, and said he supported self-determination for the island.
9:43 p.m. ET – Question from the Hispanic Leadership Network: Do you support statehood for Puerto Rico?
9:41 p.m. ET – Gingrich also stikes a strong tone on U.S.-Israel relations, and said "technically" the notion of a Palestinian people was an invention of the 1970s.
9:40 p.m. ET - Romney said there can be no space between Israel and the United States.
9:40 p.m. ET – @psteinhausercnn: Jewish Republicans in Florida are KVELLING right now #CNNDebate
9:38 p.m. ET - Question from an audience member who identified himself as Palestinian-American: What would you do to bring peace between Israel and Palestine?
9:37 p.m. ET - Gingrich pointed to his role in the Helms-Burton act, which strengthened the U.S. embargo to Cuba. Said Obama was ignoring Cuba.
9:35 p.m. ET – Romney said Obama had been ignoring Latin America, something he would change as president. Said he would use every resource to make sure that when Fidel Castro dies, people of Cuba can enjoy freedom.
9:34 p.m. ET – Paul said sanctions are well-intentioned, but they end up helping dictators and hurting people. Said there wasn't threat of Cuban invasion, and that American people had changed their minds on Cuba.
9:32 p.m. ET – Santorum said he would stand with the Cuban people, but that we shouldn't reward countries that harbor jihadists and supporters of Iran.
9:32 p.m. ET - Question: What will be your approach toward U.S. policy on Cuba?
9:30 p.m. ET - Gingrich said he is much closer to Reagan, pointing to statements from Romney's past that demonstrate more liberal leanings. Romney counters, saying he's never voted for a Democrat when a Republican was on the ballot.
9:29 p.m. ET – Romney said he couldn't claim that mantle, since he was just beginning in politics when Reagan was president.
9:29 p.m. ET – @PeterHambyCNN: Romney looked at politics "from afar," even though pops ran for president and mom ran for Senate
9:28 p.m. ET – Question to Romney: Can you claim the Reagan mantle any more than Gingrich?
9:23 p.m. ET – Paul pointed to wife Carol, said they had been married for more than 50 years. Mentioned her as the author of the Ron Paul Cookbook.
Romney singled out his wife Ann, who is a breast cancer survivor and would be able to connect with people who are suffering.
Gingrich pointed to wife Callista's passion for music and music education, and her books heralding American exceptionalism.
Santorum said his wife Karen was his hero who worked as a nurse and then a lawyer.
9:23 p.m. ET – Question: Why would your wife make a great first lady?
9:22 p.m. ET – Read a transcript from the first 30 minutes of tonight's debate here.
9:19 p.m. ET – Gingrich also mentioned Rubio, saying he was thinking of a more "central and dignified" role for the Florida senator than a cabinet post. Ron Paul didn't mention a specific name, saying there are "plenty in the Hispanic community that would give me good advice."
9:16 p.m. ET – Santorum mentioned Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Gingrich suggested New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez. Romney pointed to Florida Reps. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Mario Diaz-Balart and Lincoln Diaz-Balart.
9:15 p.m. ET – Question from the Hispanic Leadership Network viewing party: Which Hispanic leader would you consider appointing to your cabinet?
9:14 p.m. ET – Paul said neither Romney nor Santorum was correct in the health care debate. Said the government wasn't the solution for providing health care to Americans.
9:13 p.m. ET – Romney made another defense of his plan, telling Santorum it wasn't worth "getting angry over."
9:12 p.m. ET - Santorum continued his attack on Romney's health plan. Said more people were uninsured since paying the fine associated with going uninsured was cheaper than the insurance itself.
9:09 p.m. ET – Gingrich and Romney defended themselves on Santorum's health care charges. Gingrich said states should be responsible for health care. Romney said his plan worked in Massachusetts but was never meant to be enacted nationally.
9:07 p.m. ET – Santorum hit Gingrich for supporting an individual health insurance mandate, and Romney for his role creating Massachusetts' health care law.
9:04 p.m. ET – Paul said getting the government involved in health care increased costs and reduced the quality. Gingrich said there were two problems: expensive care and persistent unemployment. Romney hit Obama for not creating an environment conducive to creating jobs. Santorum agreed somewhat with the other candidates, and also floated a health savings plan.
9:04 p.m. ET – @ronpaul: So Newt just agreed that he lied about balancing the budget. #CNNDebate #tcot #RonPaul
9:03 p.m. ET – @PeterHambyCNN: GOP source sends along the buzz inside the debate theater: "Huge pro Romney energy"
9:03 p.m. ET – Question from audience member about health care benefits for unemployed people. Florida's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 9.9% in December, higher than the national average of 8.5%.
9:01 p.m. ET – Gingrich said candidates should take the time to learn about the states they were campaigning in. Said the programs were possible if costs were kept under control.
8:58 p.m. ET – Romney slammed Gingrich for pandering to local audiences, listing proposals Gingrich made in other early voting states.
8:56 p.m. ET – Paul continued, saying going to the moon should be pushed by the private sector. Government involvement in space travel should be limited to national defense, he said.
8:54 p.m. ET – Santorum said Americans needed an inspiring program, but that the focus now should be on cutting costs. Paul said we shouldn't be going to the moon, but suggested "sending politicians there sometimes."
8:52 p.m. ET – Romney said Gingrich's plan of an American base on the moon would be an "enormous expense." Gingrich defended the plan, saying NASA had been mismanaged and a space program would inspire American innovation.
8:51 p.m. ET – @ShepherdCNN: CNN space stories yesterday http://on.cnn.com/ysFifM and today http://on.cnn.com/wPdfuc #CNNDebate
8:50 p.m. ET – Question from the audience about the future of America's space program. NASA has a major presence in Florida, particularly on the "Space Coast," site of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral.
8:49 p.m. ET – @jimacostacnn: Paul issues challenge to candidates for 25 mile bike ride in the heat of Texas. Press will be skipping that one. #CNNDebate
8:49 p.m. ET – Blitzer asked Paul if he was willing to release his medical record. Paul challenged all the candidates to a 25-mile bike ride.
8:46 p.m. ET - Santorum said he wasn't for a flat tax, but was for simplifying the entire tax code. He disagreed with Gingrich's plan to reduce the capital gains tax to zero.
8:45 p.m. ET – Gingrich said he thinks every American should have the option of paying Mitt Romney's 15% tax rate.
8:42 p.m. ET – Romney said he was proud of being successful, and the he wasn't going to run from it.
8:41 p.m. ET – Gingrich said the question was distracting from real issues. Audience cheered. Blitzer pushed back, saying if he was going to make accusations against Romney, he needed to explain them.
8:40 p.m. ET – Question to Gingrich: are you satisfied with level of transparency of Romney's tax returns?
8:36 p.m. ET – Santorum said we need to decrease the number of mortgages held by Fannie and Freddie. The former senator added he thought the discussion of Gingrich's work with the firm, along with Romney's personal wealth, were distracting from real issues. The audience cheered.
8:35 p.m. ET – Paul said the discussion of investments in Fannie and Freddie didn't interest him. Said the real discussion should be shutting down the two housing agencies.
8:34 p.m. ET - Gingrich said his investments compared to Romney's are like a mouse and an elephant.
8:33 p.m. ET – Context on tonight's housing discussion: Florida has one of the nation's highest foreclosure rates in the nation. According to RealtyTrac.com, one in 360 homes in Florida is under foreclosure.
8:31 p.m. ET - Gingrich countered Romney's claim he was complicit in Freddie Mac's work, saying Romney had invested in the government sponsored entity. Romney hit back, saying Gingrich also invested in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
8:30 p.m. ET – Romney said Freddie Mac should have been a whistle-blower, not an enabler of the housing crisis.
8:29 p.m. ET – Question from Twitter about phasing out Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
8:28 p.m. ET – "Language of the Ghetto" ad is indeed an ad from Romney's campaign. Gingrich claimed he never said those words. Listen to the ad here.
Also see a press release announcing the ad from Romney's campaign.
8:25 p.m. ET – Santorum slammed Obama's policy in Latin America. Singled out relations with Honduras as having great potential that Obama's administration ignored.
8:24 p.m. ET - Paul encouraged free trade, and limited involvement militarily. "Strongly believe it's time we have friendship and trade with Cuba."
8:23 p.m. ET - Question from the Hispanic Leadership Network watch party: What would you do to encourage trade between America and Latin America?
8:21 p.m. ET – Gingrich said Romney's distortion of language in a television ad was offensive. Romney said he wasn't sure what ad Gingrich was talking about.
8:20 p.m. ET – Gingrich said grandmothers who have been in the U.S. for many years should have path to citizenship. Romney said the problem wasn't 11 million grandmothers.
8:18 p.m. ET – @shepherdcnn: @newtgingrich on immigration: I am prepared to be very tough, very bold but also prepared to be very realistic. #CNNDebate
8:17 p.m. ET – Romney said Gingrich should apologize for calling him "anti-immigrant." Said that was a "highly-charged epithet" and called it "repulsive."
8:16 p.m. ET – Gingrich received applause for saying English should be the official language.
8:16 p.m. ET – Context on tonight's discussion of illegal immigration:
In the 2008 general election, Latinos made up 14% of the voting electorate in Florida. Fifty-seven percent voted for Obama and 42% went for McCain.
In the 2008 Republican primary, Mitt Romney received 14% of the Latino vote, compared to 54% for Sen. John McCain.
8:15 p.m. ET – Paul said the current handling of border was hurting the economy. People looking to do business aren't able to get into the country. Said we're spending too much time on border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
8:14 p.m. ET – Romney defended plan of 'self-deportation,' saying two of his rivals had previously supported it. Said need to focus on making legal immigration work.
8:13 p.m. ET – Gingrich said he didn't think grandmothers and grandfathers would 'self-deport.'
8:12 p.m. ET – @jimacostacnn: Santorum says illegal immigrants are doing more than just crossing border unlawfully: "You’ve probably stolen a social security number."
8:12 p.m. ET - Gingrich said system for visas should be streamlined. Also said that system for deportation needed to be easier.
8:10 p.m. ET – @psteinhausercnn: A very different start than in Charleston #CNNDebate
8:10 p.m. ET – Santorum said illegal immigrants are breaking the law. Said we need to enforce law at the border, and have sanctions for employers who hire illegal immigrants.
8:09 p.m. ET – First question from the audience on illegal immigration.
Florida has one of the largest Hispanic populations in the country. In the 2010 census, 22.5% of Florida residents described themselves as Hispanic, compared to 16.3% nationwide.
8:07 p.m. ET – Candidates introduced themselves to the audience. Santorum pointed out his mother in the audience. Gingrich said Jacksonville will be the site of the next nuclear aircraft carrier group. Romney acknowledged his family in the crowd. Paul said he was a champion of a responsible monetary system.
8:06 p.m. ET – Blitzer explained the rules of the debate. Candidates have one minute to answer questions and 30 seconds for rebuttals.
8:04 p.m. ET – @jimacostacnn: Were they booing or yelling Newwwwwt! #CNNDebate
8:04 p.m. ET – The National Anthem was sung by the University of North Florida Chamber Singers.
8:03 p.m. ET – Wolf Blitzer introduced the candidates onto the debate stage.
8:02 p.m. ET – Tonight's debate is co-sponsored by the Republican Party of Florida and the Hispanic Leadership Network.
8:00 p.m. ET – Wolf Blitzer opened the CNN Florida Republican Presidential Debate.
7:58 p.m. ET – @DonnaBrazile: These debates show that the GOP sure have had a lot of choices this election cycle. The problem is that all of them have been bad choices.
7:56 p.m. ET – @MittRomney: For updates during the #CNNDebate follow @EricFehrn @AndreaMSaul @GGitcho @ZacMoffatt @LanheeChen @RyanGOP @TeamRomney #Mitt2012
7:53 p.m. ET – @SamFeistCNN: Only minutes away from the Florida #CNNDebate. Here's a preview of the open to tonight's debate. http://on.cnn.com/A0mH2N
7:51 p.m. ET – @CNNSitRoom: Less than 10 minutes until the #CNNDebate moderated by @WolfBlitzerCNN. Watch #CNN or http://CNN.com/LIVE.
7:44 p.m. ET – @NewtGingrich: Don't miss the debate tonight. During the debate you can follow Newt 2012 on twitter @newt2012HQ and @newt2012FL #withnewt
7:43 p.m. ET - Florida fact: Florida is a winner-take-all primary, meaning the candidate with the most votes will win all 50 of the state's delegates.
7:39 p.m. ET – Watch a sneak peek of the video open to tonight's debate.
7:34 p.m. ET - Florida fact: A solid majority (61%) of GOP primary voters in 2008 were self-identified conservatives. Romney beat McCain among them, 37% to 29%.
7:31 p.m. ET - @ShepherdCNN: CNN about to get it's debate on #cnndebate. Kudos to our awesome team who put it together PHOTO
7:28 p.m. ET - @JohnKingCNN: Feisty ron paul supporters marching pre #cnndebate PHOTO
7:27 p.m. ET – @AndersonCooper: Just arrived in Jacksonville for #cnndebate. Tune in to @AC360 at 10pm for full coverage of the most important moments. I'm excited!
7:24 p.m. ET – Newt Gingrich arrived at the debate hall, accompanied by his wife Callista.
7:21 p.m. ET – Florida fact: Mitt Romney lost the 2008 Florida GOP primary to Sen. John McCain, 36% to 31%. This time around, McCain endorsed Romney, and campaigned for him in the Sunshine State this week.
7:17 p.m. ET – @MittRomney: Tune in at 8:00 P.M. tonight for the #CNNDebate (@ CNN Presidential Debate w/ 8 others)
7:16 p.m. ET – As candidates prepare for tonight's debate, polling shows a two-man race for first in Florida. According to a CNN/Time/ORC International survey released Wednesday, 36% of people likely to vote in Tuesday's Republican primary say they are backing Romney as the party's nominee, with 34% supporting Gingrich. Romney's 2- point margin over Gingrich is well within the survey's sampling error.
The other two candidates are far behind, with Santorum of Pennsylvania at 11% and Paul at 9%, and 7% unsure of who they'll vote for.
7:12 p.m. ET – More from former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who said on CNN's "John King USA" the GOP needs to move away from being the "old white guy" party.
7:10 p.m. ET – Florida fact: Florida's contest is a closed primary, meaning only registered Republicans may vote in the Republican primary.
7:08 p.m. ET – Mitt Romney arrived at the debate hall, accompanied by his wife Ann and his son Tagg.
7:06 p.m. ET – Rick Santorum arrived at the debate hall. The debate is taking place at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville.
7:04 p.m. ET - @WolfBlitzerCNN: Less than one hour to go before I moderate the final #CNNdebate before Tuesday's Florida primary. 8PM ET. I'm excited.
7:02 p.m. ET – @David_Gergen: Winner of tonite's debate could well win Fla and close in on nomination. Huge nite for GOP. Join us live at 8 on #CNN.
6:55 p.m. ET - Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush spoke with CNN Chief National Correspondent John King earlier Thursday, and had a few pieces of advice for GOP presidential candidates participating in tonight's debate. Read more here.
6:23 p.m. ET – @RickSantorum: Tune in to tonight's #CNNdebate in Jacksonville 8pm ET http://ht.ly/8HOw7
From CNN Politics
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Will someone please ask the candidates a question for me?
TO ALL THE CANDIDATES: since outlawing abortion is the goal of the republican party, if you are elected President what penalty would you place on the girl who hires the hitman to kill her baby ? Remember if we follow your parties rhetoric the girl hires the killer, brings the victim to the crime scene, and pays the murderer for a job well done.
Thanks
Please ask Gingrich why he throws such a tantrum when negative ads are aired against him, but it's ok for him to do the same? His PACs have put out as much incorrect information as Romney's has. He's hypocritical and it's getting old.
Obama hates this country and has done everything he can to tear it down. He's an economic terrorist that uses racebating to manipulate americans
What are each of the candidate position on "Wet Feet, Dry Feet Policy".? Immigration is a big problem in the state of Florida and that policy only benefits one group of hispanics. Should it be BANNED?
Gingrich uses the same race-baiting dog-whistle rhetoric all the time. Why can't you all call him out on it?
When debating obama will you ask him directly why his own party called tea partiers terrorist and claimed the real threat to america is
Conservitives.
Jeb Bush is married to a hispanic, the wet-foot/dry-foot will never be changed until all the Bushes are out of gov't for a long long time. Hopefully forever.
I'd like Wolf to ask all of the candidates what they would specifically do to cut spending and balance the budget.
Ron Paul:Where does the president of the U.S. really have power and where does he not – which views of yours do we not have to worry about because the president can't make much difference anyway?
Wolf should give all 4 candidates a chance to answer each qusetion before giving time for rebuttals. How can we compare the differences of the candidates when they never get the same questions? Let everyone give an answer!
Americans are tired of all the anti-American lies coming from the perpetual faux victims that is the GOP.
RON PAUL for president 2012!!!
Please ask the Republican presidential candidates' position on nuclear war. Since Israel is our ally, and may opt to use nuclear weapons to take out Iran, as president of the USA, will you commit America to a nuclear war with Iran in defence of Israel?
please hurry up and get this over with. President OBAMA will clean their clocks. Frankly, I do not think Romney or That other fool Gingrich, will get the nominee. The Roman Catholic church is not aBout to let a freaking mormon, Be the leader
of the free world. Look to see McdANIEL or that other Bush Boy. They will Be so desperate, that they will overlook the
mistakes that W made. We are playing for all the marBles kiddies. The shame of it all.
I would like the candidates to be asked if they agree with GW Bush's decision to invade Iraq.
other vs. Cubans: Is There A Double Standard On Illegal Aliens?
Seems like a double standard. If you come from Cuba you are granted automatic residency, but if you come from other countries you need to have the proper documentation
How can someone who made $43 mil "Investment Income" over the past two years ever hope to connect with the working class? I am curious how much Governor Romney earned and paid in taxes when he actually had a job.
Don't count Ron Paul out. He is a choice for the voter that doesn't like what we have now or what the Republician establishment is trying to force feed us.
To all the candidates: the American education system is broken and America's technological advantage is being threatened. Silicon Valleys have appeared in China and India. What would you do as President to encourage more STEM career choices?
How will each candidate change the nafta agreement to bring jobs back to america? In down sizing the military, is Obama going to outsource the job to china?
People want to write off Ron Paul's support as that of just young people. I am far removed from being young and I support Ron Paul as the LAST HONEST MAN STANDING in politics today! Go Ron Paul 2012
Ask Romney if he plans on going to Clear Channel (next door to UNF) at and fire some more people While he is in town.
And love Anderson Cooper<3
Please give Ron Paul equal time on the podium. Please try to keep the arguing and accusations down and ask pertinent presidential questions.
I would love to hear about "Mitt Romneys" explanation on his off shore accts on avoiding tax's. And why does he go after "Newt" when he owns stock in Freddie and Fannie"?
I've heard almost all candidates complain about the state of the economy. When do you think the decline began and what would you have done to prevent it from occurring?
Awesome to hear the National Anthem at the beginning of the debate and to see all our candidates with their hands over their hearts!! America!! Land of the Free and home of the brave!
How does Sen. Santorum feel about the dream act as Speaker Gingrich puts it, for those who serve in the military. What is his stand on immigration, does he think anything other than just securing the border?
I can't believe it-the national anthem being sang as it was written! How refreshing!
CNN....Please give ALL candidates equal time. Last time you carried the debate, the singers of the national anthem had more camera time then Ron Paul.
Please ask the canidates ..Mitt and Newt to stop the negativity back and forth and stick to the issues on how will they get our country back on track and defeat the democrates and Obama
How do the candidates feel about the drawdown of conventional military forces, while relying greater on drones and special forces?
Ask all the candidates if they will put an amendment in place to protect marriage between a man and a women.
Numerous studies have shown marijauna to have some of the greatest medicinal properties known to man. As president do you recongize marijauna as a medicine ? an do you support the legalization of marijauna for medical use? why or why not?
Please ask the Republican candidates what they will be willing to do about the rising student loan debt and how many students graduating from Florida universities are leaving with thousands of dollars in student loans and won't be able to pay them back for decades unless they get a well paying job.
Are all of them just lying about there speeches of changing America like Obama or can they really change this country.
~12 year old girl~
here is my question, With the unenployment rate still at high levels what are you going to help out the veterans and the veterans that will be comming home to have gainful enployment
Please counter the myth that the President perpetuates regarding the taxes paid by Warren Buffet's secretary.
Explain why it is perfectly okay to have a capital gains tax that is lower than the 3 levels of payroll taxes
For Mitt Romney
Since you have done so well in your economic life what can you teach Americans who also want to work hard and do well financially.
2 parts: First to Romney: Yes or no, will you repel the disasterous Obamcare in its entirety?
Second to all: Stop the negative ads against each other. American voters can see through it. Voters know who they're voting for. Concentrate on Obama.
Ask them how they would deal with Medical marijuana. 16 states and more coming with state programs. So how to deal with it?
I'm an MS patient, Romney's wife has MS, so what's he think?
How about Dr. Ron Paul?
Question for all candidates:
Article 1 Section 8 of the United States Constitution states "The Congress shall have Power To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin". This authority was unlawfully relinquished to the Federal Reserve by Congress with the passage of The Federal Reserve Act in 1913. What is your plan to right this wrong and replace America's unconstitutional debt-based fiat currency with a sound constitutional debt-free currency?
How can same-sex couples get the same tax benefits as opposite-sex couples if the candidates would not allow the federal government to recognize same-sex couples as financially together?
For Newt Gingrich: Today you stated your opposition to both the Democratic and Republican Party establishments. If you are elected President, how do you lead two parties that you rebuked?
To all candidates.... What role have super pacs played either positive and negative In this campaign? As Stephen Colbert has shown there are egregious errors in the system, what you do to solve these errors.
Ron Paul: Where does the constitution mention a gold standard?
About the illegals...
they should all go back to where they came from...
if you came here illegally then your kids are illegal too, i donT CARE IF YOU WERE born here or not
Please ask the candidates if they feel it is fair to tax ALL income levels and ALL forms of income (earned or capital gains, etc) at a single and identical rate.
How is Newt going to pay for a moon base after the GOP has screamed about spending for the past 3 years, they are all expand military, prop up regimes and move against Iran (supported by Russia btw), at a time when Americans can't get health care, wages continue to plummet and they still support tax cuts for the wealthy that do not work, will one of them actually explain how they figure this will work.
The Economy. National Security. Energy Independency. Immigration Control. Tax Reform. Nuclear Non-Proliferation. Education/Welfare/Social Security. If you are elected President, how would you rank these 7 Issues?
TO ALL CANIDATES: If you become president, what will you do to try to bring down the National Debt?
Today is the second anniversary of the Citizen's United decision. Given that our Founding Fathers wanted to keep the republic free from foreign tyranny, do you agree the Supreme Court decision should be overturned since foreign corporations and private contributors are now allowed to donate and have been giving huge sums of money anonymously to the Super Pacs and thus, are influencing our elections?
I would aslo like to ask all of the canidates 2 questions.
Any ideas on deadbeat parents who avoid paying childsupport or arrears when they live out of state of the custodial parent?
What would you do to change the system for parents who make alot of money & get away with "NO" jail time on past child support payments or arrears?
Currently there is a wait for 13 years if you sponsor a brother and sister. There are total 65000 visas for this category. We keep on talking giving immigration to those who came illegaley. I am just wondering if we can increase the visa numbers so that the wait can be reduced to 3 or 4 years.
As I am an advocate for smaller government in our lives; I ask this question of all the candidates.
How would you describe the constitution – A declaration of rights, as I prefer, or a determination of rights by a bureaucracy?; in laymen terms: Did the Founding Citizens intend for the Constitution to be a living document, the determination of our rights at the hands of bureaucrats or a declaration of our rights – guaranteed
I hear each of the republican candidates saying that they have what it takes to fix the economy, to get the economy working again. It is my belief that if you want to fix something you must first know what that thing is and how that thing is supposed to be working. Can you please ask each one of them to tell us what do they personally think the economy is and how it is supposed to be working.
Congressional Term Limits. Your thoughts??
Ask Romney: How does he fairly compare Ron Paul's 2002 predictions on the middle east, wars, economy, domestic issues with other presidents philosophies, and does he believe Ron Paul's philosophy on the issues can lead us back to the status quo?
Why do we continue to wring our hands about illegal aliens.
They violated the law by entering illegally. So either ship them back or grandfather them in but make a decision.
Open up another Ellis Island process.
Question for Gingrich: If you became President tomorrow, what actions would take to detour Iran from aquiring a nuclear weapon?
Question for candidates criticizing President Obama for playing Golf while country is in economic "crisis" (especially Mitt Romney): Can you promise to the American people not to go on vacation, play Golf or have any recreational activities if you are the president and the country is going thru problems like these?
To Speaker Newt Gingrich. Many have ridiculed your proposal to build a base on the moon as foolish, etc. However, when John Kennedy proposed putting a man on the moon, the ensuing program created many jobs throughout many sectors of the American economy. How many jobs do you think your proposal might create and how do you propose preparing America for such an undertaking?
This Question is for Gov. Romney, " Will you release the tax return for the time you worked with Bain Capital"?
Question for Presidential Candidates: I worked for a Paper Manufacturer here in Grays Harbor County for over 5 yrs, this company switched owners 18 yrs ago, but has been around for over 50 yrs. We recently shut our doors and over 300 people were laid off because of Foreign Trade with China. we lost a large piece of our paper business with the Los Angeles Unified School District to China. Our own tax dollars are being used to ship jobs overseas. What would you do so this will NOT happen in the future.
Yes CNN, GIVE RON PAUL EQUAL TIME. Ignoring him isn't changing support for him. Instead,his support is growing. Give Dr. Paul equal time please. He's the only one speaking the truth. He has 3 times the military support,as all other candidates combined!
I am currently serving in the US Army in Europe. What is your positon on the current plan to reduce the United States Army by at least 8 Brigade Combat Teams, if you don't support such cuts what if any plans do you have for the future of the United States Army?
I work for an insurance company. Listening to obama talk the other night it was very obvious he doesn't understand how insurance works and that the premiums are based on risk the company is taking. The past couple of years with obamacare coming down on us with too many regulations to mention, I would like to hear the candidates reiterate their positions on repealing obamacare.
To all the candidates: To what degree do you think the negative attacks both in debates and on the TV have hurt the GOP chances in the general election?
What is the future of Veteran's benefits/
How did Rick Santorum's father come here? Did he come legally? I bet you some amnesty helped him stay.
Please ask Gov. Romney what was HIS purpose and intent in having Swiss and Cayman Island bank or other accounts and how he accumulated tens of millions of dollars in tax free retirement accounts.
Please ask how they plan to fix the 11% approval rating of the congress and how can you unite this big division in the parties
why do you stick Ron Paul in the same Podium position in all your debates?
were do each of you stand on WE THE PEOPLE for things we vote in?
I'd like to know how each candidate stands on the Citizens United ruling, and if they don't support it, will they make that a plank of the Republican party?
Mr Romney, It has been quoted that you are worth 150 to 200 Million and 200 to 250 Million. Is it true you have such loose control of your personal finances that you may have misplaced as much as 50 million of you personal assets if so why do you feel qualified to manage our money.
Healthcare Benefits and Retirement for members of the Congress. Currently, a legislator at the federal level will receive full retirement after serving as little as one term. They also receive free healthcare for life. Do you think that this is fair and equitable?? If so, WHY?
my question is for gingrich, how do you plan on paying for your military base on the moon? raise taxes on the 99% of us? barrow more money from china? and last but not least how do you feel about this DR RON PAUL. Does nasa need a to be cut back? waste of money
DR RON PAUL 2012
Many Republicans oppose President Obama's decision, expressed three years ago in Prague, "to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons." But historically, Republican presidents have supported and achieved the deepest reductions in the U.S. nuclear arsenal. For example—according to data released by the Department of Defense in 2010—during George H.W. Bush's four years in office, the total number of U.S. nuclear weapons fell from 22,217 to 13,708, a decrease of 38 percent. And under the eight years of President George W. Bush, the number of warheads declined further still, from 10,526 to 5,273, a 50 percent cut. If elected, would you follow your recent Republican predecessors and seek additional reductions in nuclear weapons?
Question for candidates? How many would forego their Presidential salary like John Kennedy did to help the economy?
To all candidates: If elected president, what would you do about thug gang bosses, such as Richard Trumka, who are responsible for much violence, and have vowed to help Obama?
Ask the candidates: Why do legal immigrants with advanced degrees have to wait for over 12 years to get a green card? Most of this time they are in the limbo waiting for it, what would you do to improve the current systems?
Please ask Newt Gingrich about his comment on1-9-12 when he was asked a question about the F-35 fighter jet, "I have a certain bias here because I used to represent Lockheed-Marietta (I think he meant Martin) in Marietta, Georgia which was building the F-22." Was this when he was an historian?
Ask the candidates if elected, will they Eliminate or Reduce the Earned Income Tax Credit! This is a welfare system being used through the Income tax system.
In all honesty do you think the debt can ever be resolved or in the future will we be governed by a world power that controls the economy and the law.
Please ask Newt Gingrich, what did Ms Pelosi mean by saying she knows what he did that will keep him from becoming our President of our country.
Ask the candidates if they believe in evolution and/or natural selection, and should creationism be taught in the public schools.
On he occasion of the 584th Republican catfight, er, I mean, debate, please ask all of them why the public has yet to hear an actual policy position or governing theory, including actual (gasp!) FACTS.
I teach elementary students and would like to know what the candidates think about Race to the Top and No Child Left Behind. What are they going to do help education?
Another debate question for Mitt: You consider yourself to be in the party of Lincoln. In 1852, when the Mormons announced their practice of polygamy to the world (as revealed to Joseph Smith in an "eternal revelation"), there were no federal laws prohibiting it. While Utah was still a territory, Congress passed and Lincoln signed into law the Morrill Anti-Bigamy Act on July 1, 1862. The intent of this legislation was to "punish and prevent the practice of polygamy in the territories of the United States and to disapprove and annul certain acts of the territorial legislature of Utah." If you had been president at the time, would you have signed the Morrill Act? Why or why not?
Republican candidates, while all of you are qualified for the presidency, none of you have significant military experience. How will you compensate for this if elected.
How does Mr. Romney circumvent the AMT (alternative minimum tax) to keep his average federal tax rate below 15%? I noticed that he isn't a spokesman for TurboTax, TaxCut, TaxSlayer or the other affordabe tax programs.
To Mitt Romney:
Explain how Bain Capital when it loaded companies with debt and then those companies filed for bankruptcy after they were sold for a big profit that this is capitalism at work. This is especially true as after those bankruptcies caused the loss of employment and the loss of pension funds, both of these actions caused the US taxpayer to cover those losses, while Bain Capital gained millions.
Robert Merrill
Pleaase ask Mr. Ginrich how he will deal with the threat we have from the leader in North Korea?
PLEASE ask this GREAT question!!!
Do you support tort reform, even though it is unconstitutional?
Please ask this question of the candidates. Are you aware of the fact that CO2 emissions and other greenhouse gases increase or decrease in proportion to world GDP and population? And since that is the case and jobs are the primary goal of the two parties, how do you plan to reconcile the fact that increasing jobs also increases the environmental risks of mass extinction?
Under what jurisdiction can a seperate state be allowed, if at all, to make decisions conrcerning illegal immigration.
ow did Rick Santorum's grandfather come here? Did he come legally? I bet you some amnesty helped him stay.
Has anyone said they "Don't want to control the border?"
I believe that legalizing drugs in our country would take the financial motivation out of the drug trade and thus shrink the value of that market. Then invest in theraputic alternatives at much lower costs. Our jail populations would shrink, law enforcement could devote their time on more important activities. The war on drugs has long ago been lost. Let's make the best of a bad situation.
Florida has 60,000 homeless adults and 50,000 homeless children, 110,000 the size of a large city what do they propose to do to help solve this issue?
We agree with Ron Paul's idea of using our military to secure our borders at a much higher level than it currently is.
Why don't you all stop fighting and running each other through the mud and agree who the best candidate is to unseat president Obama . And get behind him and show unity for a strong republican contender.
Energy Independency is an issue that has been discussed since the 93rd Congress. For 40 years, the only thing that has been accomplished is the production of a few "hybrid cars". When will we begin to see some genuine progress??
How and why were all these accounts created (and don't blind trust this answer – Mitt could set that as a management restriction, no overseas accounts, for his blind trust to run). Why were these made in the first place? Revising financial disclosure form filed with the Office of Government Ethics to include offshore investment in the Bermudas, Ireland, Cayman islands and of course the always popular Switzerland.
My question to the candidates is:
With College tuition and the unemployment rate rising, it seems it's not worth going to a University and getting a degree anymore. What will you do to decrease college tuition and make sure I'm not paying extremely high bills after college?
All candidates have proposed repealing the health law, what do they plan to replace it with in order to provide affordable and available health coverage for all Americans.
Do you realize that the ICE has a lottery program that allows 50,000 people or more coming every year. Do you support that? This costs the US a great deal of money
To all candidates; what will you do to insure that our military stays strong? What will you do about the latest proposed cuts in our defense budget?
Romney just said his parents were born in differetn countries and came here. Don't you have to be born of American parents to be president of the United States?
Mr. Blitzer,
We have one speaker of the house and he is in Wash. D.C. Gingrich is MR. Gingrich.
Mass. has its gov. in Mass. and Romney is Mr. Romney.
Santorum is no longer a Sen. and is Mr. Santorum.
Would appreciate using the correct titles when addressing these and all similar individuals.
Ron Paul stands for personal freedom. He would not enforce federal law against state laws. States have the rule on medical marijuana.
please ask newton gringrich if infadility has the same standard for everyone reguardless of party,if so why would he condem clinton and do the same himself ?
ron paul 2012 all the rest wanna do is controll you and invade ur privacy
I have not heard any of the candidates discuss how they would deal with the national deficit. Is this a subject that isn't permitted during their campaign? It is a very important subject and should not be avoided.
Gingrich's accusations are wrong and offensive.
Please direct this question to all candidates. Like him or not, agree with him or not, should not President Obama always be addressed as President when speaking to or about him? Seems like many on the conservative side lack the common decency to address our President as they should. Even the Arizona governor had to wave a finger at him today! RESPECT!
To all candidates- If you were president would you allow congress to bundle earmarks into bills as they have in the past? And if you learned of secret slush funds set up by congress for earmarks would you censure them?
Please ask each candidate, If they and there family were illegal immigrants what would they say to convince immagration officials that they should be allowed to stay.
Why can't a consevative agenda be conservationist? Why does the Republican Party continue to set aside environmental issues? We all live "down stream", One person's ventures should not poison anothers.
Please ask Mr. Paul: How, as President, and you have, by some miracle, convinced the Congress to bring our military abroad, and their families back home, you plan to feed, cloth, house, educate, provifde health care and jobs for them when all you plan to save the country in your first year is one trillion dollars?
Thank you, Lucille Privitera, Town o fPittsford, Rochester, New York
For Mitt Romney: Your great grandfather was a polygamist who had five wives. He married the fifth wife in 1897, more than six years after Mormon leaders agreed to stop promoting polygamy and more than three decades after federal law banned the practice. Was he ever arrested or prosecuted for violating U.S. law? If not, should he have been? What about those who practice it today?
Wow! Newt and Paul are debating who is more pro-immigrant? Is this the republican debate I'm watching?
could you ask the candidates that since Reagan was the one to deregulate the banks so that there is "less goverment " and Clinton deregulated the mortagage companys with none of the previous president caring to fix the problem, what would they do to fix the problem to help homeowners, without blaming the americans...because this would not have happened with deregulation.
How will you reign in China's deceitful currency undervaluing, which they continue to proliferate to attract US Companies with the false perception of cheap labor? China is destroying our trade balance
Do you think politicians are good role models for young people? If so do you think the name calling, distortion of facts, and nastiness of the primaries as well as the devisivness in our political system is leading by example?
Newt had his chance to make ENGLISH THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE. If he was true to his word there would have been a bill by him when he was in CONGRESS. His action and morals, said "Do as I say, not as I do.
CLASS WARFARE!! In truth both parties create this by manipulating the Tax Code. If President would you promise to stop dividing us into groups and treat us as individuals ? And why can't everyone just pay the same RATE like 5% corp., 5% capital gains, 5% fed.( including soc. sec.) , 5% consumer tax ?
For each of the candidates: In this age of "Entitlement Dependency" what would you do to help those currently receiving government benefits (Welfare) to move away from the system that has ensnared them in poverty, thus empowering them to take control of their lives rather than enabling their dependency on the government?
Please ask the Candidates:
Given the recent case presented to the NLRB to require management to provide contact information of non-union employees to labor unions, what whould you do as a president to reign in the influence that labor unions have in this country?
If elected, what would the next republican president do about cuban's who are allowed in the USA after reaching US soil?
Seems like there are enough jobs for non english speaking workers. Otherwise, why are they here?
My question is for Ron Paul. How would you get Congress to work with you as President? You have sponsered hundreds of bills and only 1 has passed in 23 years (the sale of a court house in Texas). If Congress will not work with you now-why would they work with you as President?
Here's my question on the INTERNET/CYBER-SECURITY: With all the latest attempts at legislation to stop copyright infringement and piracy, it would seem that we first need to figure out how to stop other countries from hacking into our Government Computer Systems and stealing our most precious secrets. Do the two apply to each other, and what would you do as President to stop it??
Steven Geile,
Wheatland, Wyoming
Would the legalization of marijuana help to definance the cartels while helping sick people medically and the economy?
At least 50% of Americans want to know.
A question for speaker Gingrich...It has been said that "The greatest sucess one can have is within the four walls of their own home", Give this fact, ....
How can you run for president given your positively horrible lack of success in your personal life ( two failed mariages)???
Question All Candidates: Each of you state that you will deregulate industry, President Obama has done away with hundreds of regulations, what specific regulations will you eliminate and in which industry?
If our legal residents wanted the jobs the illegal immigrant have obtained, then they should have them. The illegal immigrants want the work that many legal residents are either unskilled or unwilling to do. They fill a gap. Our economy would not succeed without the illegal immigrants.
Please ask Romney when is he going to produce his birth certificate. He's still not proven he's eligible to run for president.
Please, please, please include Paul and Santorum...unlike the other channels have!!!!!!
What is anyone going to do about the sanctions on Iran that has promoted INDIA to buy Iranian oil for gold? What are the going to do when/if our dollar crashes?
How do the candidates feel about the
Fair Tax? Please, tax us on what we spend, not our income.
Please stop focusing on Gingrich and Romney!!!! There's 4 candidates, 1 in particular who has a greater vision than the rest (Ron Paul).
Please, please, please-can we please hear from someone other than Romney and Gingrinch!! You call this a debate? You did the same thing last time. Very poor moderating so far. Give us a break-please...
The candidates say that the undocumented workers use stolen ssn's. However, this is not entirely true. They may obtain an ITIN , an individual tax identification number to use to get paid for their work, from the IRS. Taxes are deducted from their pay checks.
Dr. Paul it is called Dollar Dimplomacy
I am a brazilian and i totaly agree with Newt and English has to be the official language as it is. It is ridiculous all these spanish people who too over the US. I am an immigrant and To show my respect to the country that i immigrate the minimum you have to do it is to learn the language of that country.
Ask Ron Paul why the media, including CNN, ignore him so intently.
Why is the Government allowing those who are employed not paying their taxes. All other Americans are required to pay their taxes so can someone on the stage explain what they would do in the future to stop this benefit for working in the Government. The dollar amounts are in the Billions, Millions and Thousands. Thank you
Gingrich doesn't like people applauding and making noise in the debate if it is for another candidate. Without the crowd going for Gingrich he does not seem to know which direction to pander to.
As I am an advocate for smaller government in our lives; I ask this question of all the candidates. How would you describe the constitution – A declaration of rights or a determination of rights? Did the Founding Citizens intend for the Constitution to be a living document, the determination of our rights at the hands of bureaucrats or a declaration of our rights – guaranteed?
Sorry I meant Dollar Diplomacy
Speaker Gingrich and Governor Romney; honestly the rather immature one on one between you is difficult to listen to. Do you really think that either of you appear Presidential during such personal attacks? Frankly, America wants to hear how you are going to change Washington.
Romney doesn’t know what type ad his campaign air give me a break
I noticed that Gingrich refuses to look at Romney when addressing him. Is Gingrich afraid to speak to people face-to-face with whom he disagrees?
I'm so sick and tired of Mitt Romney saying that his father is from Mexico. He sounds like the offensive caucasion who when put on the spot says "I'm not racist I have black friends" His immigration policies are archaic, and don't meet the needs of our border problem
Santorum, what makes you think that restrictions on 50 after more than 50 years will change anything in Cuba?
To all the candidates: If you become President what specifically will you do to bring to justice the people of the mortgage companies, the banks, the investment companies and all others who caused the foreclosure debacle?
Santorum why do you FEAR so much?
Ricky is a lacking sack! Obama has done no such thing!
What are the candidates going to do to protect/help the middle class ? I work 3 jobs have 2 soon to be 3 in college I don;t get free food healthcare cell phones It's absurd
What would your policies be like for programs like Food Stamps for poor famlies and college students like myself?
For all the candidates:
Would you as president work with the North African nations to stabilize the region and possibly bring down gas prices?
I agree 100% that immigrants who want to live in America need to be legal to work and go to school here. It would be great if they would self deport but as long as our government gives them a "free" ride with checks, food stamps, housing....etc. they will stay here. All the government hand outs need to stop.
@David Callahan... you say
"Obama hates this country and has done everything he can to tear it down. He's an economic terrorist that uses racebating to manipulate americans".
Huh? Who created the housing meltdown? Wasn't that GHWB economics?
And what has he done that is racist? – fact's pleas, not rhetoric
Senator Santorum please tell the American people if you are aware of the immigration status of his grandparent, and father,( if they ware here with a visa when they first come here in America)
Ron Paul 2012
Rick Santorum is the anti-gay, anti-abortion guy who is running on these social issues. Never mind health reform or jobs. Or anything important or non-discriminatory, for that matter.
Can we ask the candidates to explain how more jobs were created during the Clinton Admin while the top tax rate was raised. How can that fact be explained in view of the Republican party.s reluctance to raise taxes on the highest earners? Thanks – MH (Texas)
Santorum can't open the door to solidify anything...the conservative, christianism reputation precedes this backwoods thinking. People here in this country and around the world want little to do with this type of political narcicism...Santorum cannot even represent legitimately the various culture here in the states and he wants to "solidify" something?
Please ask:
The FBI has determined that Florida is one of the worst states for Mortgage Fraud. Would you encourage governer Rick Scott to keep Florida a judicial state and run all foreclosures through the courts to identify the fraud? Or do do think Florida should become a non-judicial state and speed up the foreclosure process where foreclosures don't need to go before a judge? This is a very big Florida issue right now.
Please ask the Canadates, since Pres.. Obama said no to the Pipelind deal, that would create many jobs here in the USA, why dont we use the pipeline as a water pipeline to the drought stricken areas, as it floods in areas route the water to the areas that need it, also when wild fires break out in Cal. Make more jobs since it there already use it!
Wish they would stuck with North American problems. Jobs, Smaller Goverment, Housing,
All the candidates believe they want to be a leader, what do they think is the best way to revamp the IRS and our rediculously confusing tax code?
Please ask candidates what they would think of a four-year moratorium on ALL immigration that the taxpayers could vote on. This would allow a much needed financial infusion to "get our house in order", allow job growth and help with our medical delivery crisis. We would re-open the borders after the four-year period and have a healthy financial injection to our economy.
Why didn't CNN disclose that the question out of Miami was from a GOap insider? Didn't Racquel work for Jeb?
Speaker Gingrich, many Republicans are very committed to defending traditional marriage. Are you the right person to lead that effort given your marriage history, and if so, how will you distinguish your marriage history with multiple wives from gay demands that they be able to have just one partner?
I am 13 and Please ask the candidates what their opinion about if they think american people are healthy and if not what they would do to fix it.?
To all candidates – Florida has a very large coastline protected by the US Coast Guard that has depleted equipment and low resources – what are you as a president prepared to do to ensure the US Coast Guard has the latest technology to protect our coast and citizens. Would you advocate old Navy ships being given to the Coast Guard as they are more modern?
Newt DID say that in 2007. Drudge report "Newt Gingrich told the National Federation of Republican Women that Spanish is the language of living in a ghetto."
Today, we are pandering to legal and illegal spanish population, tomorrow it will be Arabic, day after it is italian, When are we going to pander to american values and american languages. With every presidential debate it looks like American values , American language and American culture's survival is at stake. What is the opinion of the candidates??
I heard that Speaker Gingrich did NOT offer up any people/friends (ask he claimed) to ABC to contradict his 2nd ex-wifes claim that...
"Speaker Gingrich asked her for an open marriage"
Was the speaker misinformed and if so by whom?
It appears Speaker Gingrich lied about this matter...
Mr Santorum: In the previous debates you referred to yourself as the candidate with the deepest contrast to president Obama. After listening to the State of the Union Address and Obama's views on foreign policy, domestic policy, immigration and education, wouldn't it be safer to say that Dr. Paul is in fact the clearer contrast?
gop candidates,
how would you change the pres. job desciption to primary/only lobbiest in congress and senate?
Please ask this question...Pick one of your fellow candidates on the stage you think would make a good President...be specific and don't mention yourself.
LET Dr Paul SPEAK!!!!!!!!! or are you just like NBC
Define Natural Born Citizen and Santorium are you eligible to even hold the office of president?
If elected President, how would you dismantle the Federal Reserve, implement the gold standard, and what impact would it have on the U.S. market and the global market? How long would you take (or estimate it would take) to do this?
So Gov Romney just lied in front of everyone saying it was not his advertisement re: Gringich says Spanish is the language of the ghetto. I have just heard it online and it has Gov Romney at the end saying in Spanish that he endorsed the ad. Shameful!
It is simply to stop illigal immigration, the formula is to create a good legal immigration program as Canada have it. Everybody who comes to Canada come legal because the immigration program is real, fast and works. Why the US don't create a real immigration program to give the opportunity of good people to immigrate to the US because with your system now you only get the worst people as immigrant. In Canada you have a list of requirements you have to reach...one of them you have to know fluent English, have university degree and be in a age that you can be a benefit to the country.
I have worked extremely hard to complete college, obtain a good salaried job at a fortune 100 company, and I find myself struggling to ever see when I can afford the american dream of a house, no debt, and enough time to enjoy life a little. What will you do as president to show the american people that there is a direction, there is accountability, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel
Let's find a simpler way to explain earned income that is taxed highter than capital gains income that is taxed lower.
Please ask if this can be nuturalized before Obama tries to use this against us, the GOP.
Ask if they can come up with a good jingle so that Homer Simpson could understand the difference!
With the USA already outspending every other country on military, how much more is Romney willing to spend to make it so big that no country dare attack us. We already have the best military in the world, and that didn't stop 9/11 from happening.
Given the fact that illegal immigrants have had multiple opportunities to become legal through various amnesty programs under a variety of administrations over the past three decades, why should we now consider now allowing these same illegal immigrants that have not taken advantage of one of the many opportunities given to them to become legal, a free pass because they are grandparents, established in there communities, homeowners, or members of a church?
First, its apparent that questions are either asked to Romney and GIngrich, or Paul and Santorum. That's just odd Wolf! Second is my question: For those who would consider amnesty for "law abiding" illegal immigrants who haven't been caught and returned, does that mean that you would also consider amnesty for "law abiding" US citizens who commit lesser offenses like fail to file with the IRS, pay taxes, go to jail for buying marijuana, etc.?
Speaker Gingrich, for many Republican voters defending traditional marriage is extremely important. We understand that you have gone to God for forgiveness for past mistakes, but our question is about your leadership, not your standing before God. How can you be the standard bearer in defending marriage from gay attacks that you are hypocritical, and that there is no justifiable reason to deny their desire for single-partner "gay marriage" when you yourself have lived for many years in a multiple-partner, heterosexual "open marriage"?
Sad to hear from most candidates don't even know the difference between central and south america!
I agree with English as the primary language in this GREAT county. Please respond to this problem......what do the unemployed do who are not bi-lingual. In South Florida if you are not bi-lingual your job choices are few.
I don't want to hear another thing from Romney or Newt! I'm tired of both of them already. I'd like to hear from Santorum if you don't mind.
Why don't you throw a party for Romney and Newt and let them duke it out between them. I'm so worn out on Romney's voice.....and Newt is getting on my nerves as well.
Do we want either one of those two for President? I don't like either of their attitudes–they grate on my nerves-really.
Can you contrast the immigration policies of our country with those of other industrialized nations. What would happen if any American stayed illegally in another country such as Mexico, Canada, Great Britain, or Australia?
Stop the none sense, please carry on to Paul and Santorum!!!!!!!
stop bickering, get on with the problems.
Why are they asking government candidates about whether they believe Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac needs more oversight when it was the government that encouraged the mortgage giants to hand out loans like candy?
Please ask Senator Santorum if he believes President Obama is a Muslim. If he does not why did he not correct the woman who called the president a Muslim at one of the Senator's Town Hall meetings.
Military requires a high standard of physical fitness and expect leadership from the front. Some of the candidates clearly do not exemplify those standards. How will the candidates demonstrate leadership by exemplfiying the high military physical fitness standard, which by the way, also contibutes substantially to overall fitness and resiliency.
Gentlemen, Concerning Foreign Policy, Can you please explain what George Washington meant in his farewell address to the American people by warning "a passionate attachment of one nation for another produces a variety of evils. Sympathy for the favorite nation, facilitating the illusion of an imaginary common interest in cases where no real common interest exists, and infusing into one the enmities of the other, betrays the former into a participation in the quarrels and wars of the latter without adequate inducement or justification. It leads also to concessions to the favorite nation of privileges denied to others which is apt doubly to injure the nation making the concessions; by unnecessarily parting with what ought to have been retained, and by exciting jealousy, ill-will, and a disposition to retaliate, in the parties from whom equal privileges are withheld."
On the economy, what actions would you immediately (within first 90 days), short-term (6-12 months) and long-term (2-4 years) take to expedite recovery? Also, what actions would you seek (regulation, de-regulation, etc.) to help prevent such a long-lasting recession from occurring again?
Ask them:
Are you in favor of imposing any new Laws to avoid the financial meltdown we had? Specifically related to Derivatives and other sophisticated financial instruments used by Financial Institutions like Goldman Sachs?
Why is it that Mitt Romney never does anything? Everything he does is done by someone else. Thank you CNN for checking in almost real time the truth of the debate claims. Hold the candidates to the truth.
ask the canidates for their opinion on our failed and very expensive "war on drugs"...
Please ask the candidates : How do each of you plan to QUIT SPENDING MONEY we dont have? Thank You.
The first man on the stage to stand tall and announce he has made mistakes in life, is better as a result, wants to talk only about how he will lead in a way that will help us get jobs, keep our homes, support our military and those are the things he wishes to talk about; that man gets my vote!
President Obama recently made questionable "Recess Appointments" to circumvent the Senate advise, consent, and confirmation process. What is your position on recess appointments?
candidates are saying that undocumented workers are using stolen SSN's. This is not entirely true. Many are issued ITIN Issued by the IRS to use to get paid for their work. Taxes are deducted from their salary before they receive it. Many do not file to get their refunds.
When are Mitt and Newt going to quit the bickering among themselves and get to the real issues,enough of the B.S. between THEM !!!!!!
someone compare social security benefits with government retirement. Age, amounts
rommney keeps saying no one ever gave him anything he earned his money on his own
doesn't he think by having a father as a govenor helped.
How about the decriminalization of marijuana? Here in New Hampshire we can buy liquor of the side of the interstate.
Reefer madness really? Cigarettes really?
Immigration- This country was created and built by immigrants who then called themselves Americans. These guys needs to understand how immigration works before they talk.
These guys are all rich men off the backs of all the poor and middle class people and are standing up there talking about unemployment ets. The companies they invested in the went under is what has cause the unemployment.
i would like to know where the candidates stand on guns and gun control in the united states.
Gingrich did in fact call Spanish the "language of the ghetto" and said immigrants should learn English which he called "the language of prosperity". It doesn't get any more racist than that.
Are we to believe that Mitt Romney has no idea how his money is invested? Any intelligent investor knows what he's investing in. Stop underestimating the American people's intelligence!!!
Guys p,ease p,ease stop and focus on the issues. This is why we don't like Congress, they only fight and get nothing done. Are you able to save the country or will you continue the argument when in office.
I don't see Santorum as angry. I see him as being assertive. I'm so worn out on Romney and Newt. We already know about the two of them and I'm quite frankly tired of it!!
I personally think that there should be a balance between what we do to help the countries overseas and what we do to help USA thats my question
Will any of the canidiates do anything about China performing slant drilling into American reserves?
I am a education major in college. What are you going to do for education to improve it?
Rick Santorum...great comment!!
If we do increase free trade like Ron Paul says, then it will raise the HDI of the South American countries and they will be able to take care of themselves instead of us going in there, wasting tax money and in the end just electing another dictator. With more international trade, it will allow the LDC's to develop through the international trade alternative while benefitting us too. The country's will be able to take care of themselves then, without us having to support them. Why does America feel obliged to 'help' everyone when we mainly need to help ourselves right now?
Could you please ask the candidates if they would arrest a senior citizen who smoked marijuana for medical uses? If not , would that not prove that there is a legitimate use for marijuana? Should our government continue to arrest its own citizens for a victimless crime?
Someone please check what Gingrich really said about which language americans should speak! It was brought up in Florida debates.
Puerto Rico is being an Associate State of the US since 1898 when U.S. won the war against Spain.. Everybody born there is an american citizen. What would the candidates do to make sure Puerto Rico becomes an official State.
Are any of you able to start coming up with series changes you are going to make or are you going to continue to insult each other and your current president?
Im a small business owner! I have no relief if things get tough(like now)! I scrap and claw to stay in business. Yet the goverment bails out the big companys. To all of you-If GM collapses again, will you bail them out or make them face the music like me and so many other small business"s have to everyday?
Speaker Gingrich,
You were critical of Paul Ryan’s entitlement reforms and are now promising a moon base. As Daniel J. Mitchell asked on his blog today, why do you want to use my wallet as piñata to fund your grandiose dreams?
QUESTION FOR THE CANDIDATES:
What laws do you know of that prevent/hinder low-income and middle-income individuals? Will you repeal such legislation? What legislation and efforts will you make to enable and facilitate entrepreneurial individuals, like myself, to create businesses?
Please ask the candidates why it is Obama's responsibility that so many people are out of work, yet Republican ideology is to keep government out of business.
The candidates all seem to agree on the illegal immigration, but the question to them, that has not be addressed, how would they handle the control of the illegal’s & drugs coming into the USA?
Build a fence, a wall what would be done?
I am a disabled veteran. Do you believe that the V.A. operates a welfare program whose benefits should be reduced?
Question for the candidates:
What would you do to end the insider trading and conflict of interest deals by politicians and government agencies like the FDA, USDA, etc.
All the time Romney answer is “I don’t know”
Santorum is like the little brother that gets no attention so he yells louder hoping to be heard!
Great messages from Paul and Santorum. Stay focused on the important elements Republicans!
This is third CNN debate that has allowed the debate to degenerate into ad hominem attacks between Gingrich and Romney. Cheap. Santorum and Ron Paul who have the high ground and could help the country are given little or no time.
I have a question for the republican candidates. I live in Fresno Ca and my only income is my SSDI which is $933.00 a month. You say you cant live on $750,000 what is going to be done to help lower income people find housing and also medical expenses like dental and eyeware and exams. What can i expect for my future with 1 of any of you as our next president. Thank you and god bless you.
ALL CANIDATES: Jacksonville Florida is a military city, having 2 active duty bases within the city limits. These military bases help bring money to the economy of Jacksonville and the state of Florida. As president, will canidates continue to cut budgets for the military forcing out soldiers, sailors, and airmen, or can we expect an increase in funding in order to build up the greatest military in the world?
follow-up,
will you talk to 20 sen or cong/week?
You go Mr Santorum! Thank you,...finally someone has stood up to stop the wasteful bantering!
would someone ask the candidates a question for me I want to know what they are going to do about companys that when you call in they ask you to push 1 if you want to hear in english i am in america and a american i shouldnt have to push 1 to hear english on my phone who is going to fix this ?
REVISED QUESTION FOR THE CANDIDATES:
What laws do you know of that prevent/hinder low-income and middle-income individuals from starting small businesses? Will you repeal such legislation? What legislation and efforts will you make to enable and facilitate entrepreneurial individuals, like myself, to create businesses?
Considering the multiple war campaigns on radical Islamic extremists and terrorism, where do you stand on mainstream Muslims?
You know the media is bad when they suppress the guy with the most common sense. We all know that man is Ron Paul. Time for America to admit it.
Wolf,
Ask them when they will deal with the true issue of healthcare, costs. I just got my first job as a school nurse. If I want coverage for my daughter it is $750/mo over 1/3 of my salary. When I asked BCBS about a child only policy they said they don't offer those any more because of Obamacare and the no refusal clause. It's not about coverage it's about costs.
What Obama automatically wins the presidency if republicans even speak about marijuana one time? Ya lets deal with the real issues.
We have all seen the massive opposition to the SOPA and PIPA acts proposed earlier. There is a new act being called the OPEN Act. What are the candidates feelings on the new revised act and it's possible impact on the fairly unregulated internet we all use today?
Since Saddam Hussain did not run his country by himself is it know if any of his henchmen were able to e interigated into admiting where the nuclear, mushroom cloud weapons went?
To all the candidates:
Please ask the candidates that, IF they and their constitutents believe that Social Security is the problem that they believe it is, if they would advocate for anyone believing that Social Security IS the liberal "handout" that they always express, if those very same people would be willing to write to Social Security and RELINQUISH their rights to have this benefit. This would make more money available for those of us who believe in the program...and would allievaite their having to support something they just don't believe in as well as help to fund the program for the future.
All candidates claim to be in touch with middle class America. Can any candidate tell us what the average gallon of gasoline cost?
i would like to know the opinions of the candidates on the subject of gun control and ownership in the united states, do you feel that the second amendment is a relevant issue
Look at Rick Trying to be a lil newt going after media
Please stop attacking each other and just speak to the issues. Mr. Wolf, please stop asking the candidates questions that promote confrontation and ask about the issues, I.e., foreign policies, economy, job creation ,etc. Rick Santorum
gets an A+ for what he just said.
Regardless of the national security implications, does it may economic sense to have lax immigration enforcement in time of high unemployment? Also, is the president abdicating his constitutional duty by not enforcing current immigration law. In other words, does the president have any policy-making authority if he does not agree with currrent law or is it his duty to enforce the law notwithstanding his policy differences?
To all the candidates: What do you feel the United States' responsibility is when they become aware of a situation of ethnic cleansing in a foreign country, such as Darfur in Sudan?
What d the candidates think can be done to peacefully dissuade China from behaving aggressively towards its neighbors, including Taiwan, Japan, and the South China Sea states?
Please ask each candidate if they would consider other patriots on that stage to be part of their administration?
As President, will you support Israel and advocate for a war against Iran or use effective diplomatic channels to avoid another war and stop Iran from realizing its ambitious Nuclear Program?
Please ask all candidates 1) Is the U.S. dollar in imminent danger of losing it's status as the reserve currency? 2) If this were to happen how would each candidate respond to the new domestic landscape this would create?
Why the study of the history or the past is important to the FUTURE?
Neither would be right for USA, but. Rick and Ron are kicking the front runners tails tonight.
Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington subsequently listed Rick Santorum as one of its "most corrupt politicians",
With so much dirt coming out on Newt and Romney, why do they think Americans should vote for them?
Please ask the candidates that, IF they and their constitutents believe that Social Security is the problem that they believe it is, if they would advocate for anyone believing that Social Security IS the liberal "handout" that they always express, if those very same people would be willing to write to the Social Security Department and RELINQUISH their rights to have this benefit. This would make more money available for those of us who believe in the program...and would allievaite their having to support something they just don't believe in.
My question is: What would you do about "Fast and Furious" to get the investigation off dead center.
Senator Santorum,Gov Romney has some family history, at list know where parents or grandparents came from, what about the other two candidates are you Native Americans? can we get some history please
And to all candidates. How come all of these older male politicians are so against abortion, when you really have no say in it? At least a women politician may have a valid opinion, but you really aren't in the position to oppose. You can have your opinion, but it there is no need to argue about something that will never affect you.
Wolfe stop it!!!
Does anybody think we need to hear more from all of the candidates?
Please ask all:
How many bank accounts do you have outside the USA?
Is it still possible to pay down the national debt in our lifetime? If so how would you do it if you were elected president?If not, what will happen to the value of our currency, will it have to be devalued?
Gingrich or his super PAC is running an ad that states that "Under Gingrich's stewardship the government ran a surplis". In fact, this happened while Clinton, a Democrat, was President and the Democrats had a majority in the Senate and Gingrich resigned before the end of Clinton's term. Can Gingrich explain how he or his Super PAC can take credit for the surplus?
What would they do about the gas prices to keep them down? What would you do about the the gas refineries that are going to close and the pipe line from Texas to Canada?To stop the drilling off are coast and keep the other countries from coming here and drilling.
Do you agree that the tone of the campaign has turned negative? If so, do you believe it is constructive? How do you compare the vetting of the Republican candidates in 2012 with the vetting of then-candidate Obama in 2008?
WOLF? Can we get past the fact that Newt and Gingrich have made money in their life and get to the issues?
senator santorum How can you stop capitalist like mitt romney from hiring illegal immigrate because it benefit them to hire hire illegal immigrate .
given that one of causes of off-shore manufacturing is low wages paid abroad, will the new President implement such import excise tax as will make it uneconomical to continue importing non-American manufactured products?
What are the candidate's going to do for the low income and poverty level family's. They are all telling what they want to do to the wealthy and middle class. We to have the right to vote. They need to put the energy that they are wasting and use it to get there message across to the voter's
Come on CNN, ask some really questions.
Newt is using this platform to play "I know you are, but what am I', and Mitt is having to spend valuable airtime defending himself against Newt's ridiculous childish attacks. It's unworthy of the American people. I am happy to see Mitt handle him self so effectively and with so much dignity. The man is a class act and is brilliant.
Again, not hearing from all 4 candidates so you can try to get ratings! This is a Presidential debate not Jerry Springer!
I would like to ask the Republican candidates on what qualifications they continue to refer to Obama as a socialist. What, specifically, defines a socialist in their viewpoint and apply that to specifics that Obama supports.
newt needs to stay way far from this subject, or the 'Tiffany tone will resurface
Romney is super rich, so is Gingrich, Paul and Santoriom are just in this for the hell of it. None of them can stand up to President Obama character, family values and leadership. He has done as much as he can without signing executive orders which each one of them states they will do day 1. How about the congress do their part and help the president get things done the right way.
Lowering taxes on the wealthy is a popular argument made for job creation. Do you agree or disagree that rewarding individuals for ACTUAL job creation with tax breaks is a better policy than rewarding people for having the POTENTIAL for job creation?
Mitt Romeny --If you want only english to be taught in american schools you have to do your homework because there is a program called english as a second language progrm that teaches students that dont know english or dont know it every well. It is not for only the illegals as you call them when the politically correct term is undocumented people. This program is for the parents that come here legally that taught their kids the correct english that I know that they wish they can.
So, CNN gets the headlines for tomorrow and for their pundits tonight and we get the shaft because nothing of SUBSTANCE is being talked about-–THANKS FOR NOTHING!
African Americans are suffering an unemployment rate at nearly three times that of Caucasians. What will each of you do in terms of programming to ensure that this becomes more proportionate among all Americans?
Speaker Gingrich
Why would Floridans vote for you, when you are part of the reason so many of them are out of homes?
As I watch this debate and see the candidates arguing about whether they have stocks, mutual bonds etc. I cringe. They are so disconnected from most of Americans. Unfortunately we do not have any stocks, bonds, etc. My husband lost his job of 16 years two and a half years ago! We lost our house, and a vehicle we almost had paid off. We also exhausted his 401k. Nobody would "work" with us. What do the candidates say to the rest of us that are just trying to make it paycheck to paycheck? Please get to us, the Americans who are just wanting to survive!
To all the candidates:
How you can you help the citizens who live in poverty, searching for work day-to-day, and have little or no money at all by relating to their lives?
All candidates: If you become the president you will have the ability to authorize the release of nuclear weapons, under what circumstance would you do so? Can you foresee a circumstance where you would authorize a preemptive release? If so what?
Newt is getting killed!
newt never let a fact get in the way of his babble
Talk about the issues to make things better in the us...
Considering the economy would you be willing to not accept a presidential salary for your first term?
#CNNDebate Dr Paul Predicted the housing bubble in 2002. Did any of you see this coming ,and if you did what did you do to stop it.
Santorum says we should have supported Zalaya in Honduras. Zalaya became a leftist and therefore a target of the conservative money holders. In an earlier age he would be called a "communist" and executed by the CIA. I'm glad to hear conservative Santorum changing their mind on these issues. Or is this just garbage talk?
What can I make of the rest of the candidates in the GOP race with the verbal battles between the two weakest candiadtes?
I'm a 41-year-old that has to put in social security every paycheck. How are you going to guarantee that I see this money that I'm putting away when I retire?
Where in the U.S. Constitution, that all four of you often reference, does it state that our form of government is a Democracy?
Do you believe that the post WWII tax rates helped build the US into the richest, most powerful nation in history?
If so wouldn't a higher tax rate on the very wealthy again contribute to the growth of our nation once again?
If not why not?
the us military routinely trains high school graduates to operate and repair advanced electronic equipment, nuclear power units and other advanced technology in under two years. why can't the american college system be reformed so that it doesn't take four years and thousands of dollars of debt to get a good job?
This debate between Gingrich and Romney is like a really bad episode of Jerry Springer. They make Ron Paul look very good. I can trust him. If he makes a mistake along the way, it will be an honest mistake. I do Not trust Gingrich or Romney. Where are the solutions! That what we need!
All candidates tout themselves as pro life and that every life is sacred. Do the apply this to the death penalty? If not, don't the see it as a conflict? They always focus on abortion only
To all the candidates, Congress and the President are making a lot of money to be in office. Obama made 21 million dollars. Those who hold these offices are either, doctors, lawyers, businessmen and businesswomen. Why can't we take away their pay checks put the money back in to help balance the budget? We would really find out who wants to serve Americans and not their own pockets.
To all candidates: In a country founded on personal freedoms, as president how will you interpret the "separation of church and state?"
All of the immigrants are grandmothers! Stricter policies for the criminal element of illegals, stop the funding in schools and medical facilities for these people and they will leave this country faster.
As far as the banks lending to people who can't afford to pay the mortgage back, where is this happening? What banks are thet refering to? Mortgage brokers who ripped off buyers are the ones that helped cause the problem & NO prosecution on them when caught!!!!!!!!
Each of the candidates on stage except for Ron Paul have made disparaging remarks against minorities like Hispanics, Latino's and African Americans, how can you ensure these people that confidence in your concern about all Americans includes them and that you will not govern with the ignorance your comments have suggested?
What do the candidates attribute the booming economy with budget surplus of the Democrat Clinton administration years vs, subsequent declining economy and deficit years under Republicans?
Since all the candidates beside Ron Paul like war, please ask the rest of them why don't their adult children or grandchildren serve in the war and when i say war, battlefield, not behind a desk.
Please fact check the following: Newt Gingrich did make the Spanish being the language of the ghetto. He even apologized for saying it, in Spanish! See: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjHa1JHiHFU
Mr. Buffet's secretary already pays a nearly 40% INCOME tax rate. Why now double down on the rate she pays for capital gains on investments by raising the rate from 15 – 30 %. Is this really the best approach?
Ask the candidates why they think that the mortgage credit crisis what the fault of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac? What role did the large Wall Street investment banks such as Lehman Brothers play? Do they support another bailout of the investment banks should to protect them from exposure to the sovereign debt crisis in Europe?
Did the Founding Citizens intend for the Constitution to be a living document, the determination of our rights at the hands of bureaucrats or a declaration of our rights – guaranteed
All candidates – If the dream act is put on your desk if any of you become president. What would you do? be specific and explain why.
Question for Newt. If marriage is supposed to be between a man and a woman, would support a girlfriend exception?
Gop Candidates: If someone I know is spending 10 years in Federal prison for not disclosing an off-shore account, should Mr. Romney be held to the same standard if it is proven that he has done the same?
How sad is it that Mitt Romney doesn't know where he money is? Don't we all wish we had such an issue!? That man can't POSSIBLY UNDERSTAND how the REST OF THE USA is feeling. For him to say, "I know how you feel" he is lying!!!!
He can't possibly know!
Newt. We don't want communist china tax plans as you suggest by pointing to Hong Kong's tax plan as good for the US
This debate is ridiculous. We want to hear how each would help America and our problems....not about where the money is of each politician, nor haggering between candidates. Let's get some answers concerning our country!
Would you continue to allow american businesses to move their businesses, and their profits overseas without penalty? What would you say to the unemployed worker who lost their job to a company's move overseas?
Santorum: only rich people deserve low taxes because only they are able to get the economy going. How's that been working out lately Rick?
Gov Romney, it must be easy to hide behind the fact that your money is invested in a blind trust. How do you know your investments are not being invested in the questionable companies or shell corporations that support terrorist organizations?
Looks like we know who WOLF BLITZER is voting for.....Balanced?
for the candidates,,,
with the acknowledged widespread fraud by banks and others that led to the current economic problems why has there been little or no prosecutions,,,,especially for the too big to fail banks. are they also too big to be held accountable?
gop candidates,
The Federal Res. has the death grip on the gov. ...How would you get control over the Fed. and return our money to the back to the people and release the grip on our economy?
C'mon Wolfe, ask an intelligent question and get off the cheap stuff. Let's talk about the substantive issues!
Will the candidates, as President, want line-item veto authority?
Do the candidates support term limits for House and Senate members?
As President Obama stated in the SOTU, will the candidates, as President, want unilateral authority to reorganize government bureaucracy to cut the size of government?
The slate of Republican candidates has been excellent. Many of us admire qualities in each individual. It would be marvelous if the Presidential candidate would select his Vice-President and Secretaries of the State, Treasury, Defense and Interior from this group.
Thank You for sharing this thought!
In the interest of fairness, CNN should investigate and disclose live whether or not Gingrich ever implied in a speech that Spanish is a ghetto language!
What do you think about the Volker rule, which would essentially restore Glass-Steagal?
Would you be in favor of repealing Gramm-Leach-Bliley? Why or why not?
No one brings up the biggest ally to the North, Canada. How will you as candidates keep free trade fair?
To all candidates: Do you believe any part of NAFTA needs to be reviewed and what would you do to get large companies with good paying jobs and benefits to come back to the US and give OUR citizens work instead of sending so many of our best positions to other countries?
I would like to ask the Republican opponents of Romney: How can they complain about Romney's tax rate, how he positions his money overseas, etc. at the same time one of the Republican party's primary differences between themselves and Democrats is about wealth-accumulation, smaller government, and how much the Government should tax the wealthy vs. the '99%'?
Do these gentlemen support ( Super) PACs... If so, why ?
Romny does come out as sneaky, dishonest.
I don't know what is in my ad.
My trustee made those investments.
His hands are off every thing. Will he keep same attitude if becomes President.
Mr. Romney, how many years you had Swiss bank accounts & did you not know of those – you will be a bad businessman if you didn't.
Please ask Romney: Why do you bank in Switzerland rather than in an American bank?
Dr. Paul, What is your position on domestic energy production?
Just let the audience ask the questions... they do much better than paid moderators...
to newt g. and mitt r. – will you PLEASE stop arguing between yourselves and tell us what you are going to do to get our country back on its feet again?
It's to bad that the ratings aware media fails to focus it's attention on the "two" prime candidates and not on all of the candidates. We might find the two outside candidates have meaningful imput and ideas. We might even find a stronger nominee.
for the candidates ,,
why does congress and the president get to spend so much time running for other political offices when they so choose. shouldn't they have to resign their current position to run for another office? regular americans can't just leave their current job to pursue another one.
Why do these moderators insist on trying to get all but a fist fight going between Gingrich and Romney while completely ignoring the other candidates until they are called on it. This is not helpful to anyone. Do these moderators even know that we have a president who has policies that need to be addressed by these people who want to replace him. If we only know who can fight it out on stage we learn nothing about what they will do to help this country, the debt, economy, jobs, and so much more.
This has to be the silliest debate yet. Why does the media only want to show Gingrich and Romney arguing? They need to be talking about jobs and the economy and defeating Obama. The only ones who sound intelligent are Santorum and Paul and the media won't give them a chance to talk!
I believe the biggest cause of our national debt and deficit is the political corruption in Washington. Nothing will change if both parties vote based on how it will affect their latest stock or IPO purchase. Has anyone on the panel benefited from stock purchases bought or sold before or after voting on any congressional bills? Also, what do they think should be done to address this issue.
too bad because it it is such agreat idea but said who is came from.
What will you do to help people who have lost their jobs + are over 50 yrs old?
#CNNDebate Dr Paul you call for the end of the war on drugs, If you had your way do you think that it will help the Mexican people can get better control of their own government, and end the rein of the Mexican cartel.
I am stunned by the lack of respect for our president. Even the Republican candidates insist on calling him "Obama", rather than President Obama. Can't remember when our president was so disrespected, regardless of his political affiliation.
If Newt continues to threaten to pull out of debates unless he is allowed to have a peanut gallery to play off of, does he not realize that he is the one that would lose in not being able to debate his opponents opinions face to face? all competitions have rules... heck even football has one for excessive celebrating. should players say that refs are stilting their "freedom of speech" and refuse to play.
Dr. Paul, What do you believe our relationship with Israel should be?
GOP Candidates
What would you do stop the gun flow from our states and gun shows from going to Mexico? And, if elected as president what would you recommend to the next president of Mexico on how to handle the Zetas and other drug cartels that has plunged the country in a country under siege?
South Florida is known as the capital of Medicare fraud, but increasingly Cuba is where the scammers go to avoid prosecution
If you became president, what would you hope to accomplish in the 1st 100 days of your presidency?
Somone needs to ask Romney what recourse he has towards the fiduciary of his blind trust if he feels they are not getting the return on his investments that he expects. Blind does not mean he does not have a way to control what investments are made, or where he wants them to invest.
Do you think that the federal government should pay for women to have children when it costs over $250,000 to raise one child to age 18 in today's society?
Mr. Romney and Santorum: US is world's leader for democracy and human rights, how would you comment on recent Communist Chinese killing many innocent Tibetans in Serda, Tibet for advocating freedom in Tibet?
I am glad I watched the debate tonight. My decision is I cannot vote for any of the three ordained candidates. If Dr. Paul runs as a third party candidate, I will strongly consider voting for him.
Speaker Gingrich,
What plans do you have to work with other nations and their space programs if they try to claim rights to colonizing the moon first?
Newt has no idea of what a design cycle is, we will be right up with the russians on safety. A base on the moon is a great idea but he would fail on implentation.
My husband enter the US without a VISA in 12/2000 in Miami thru the airport and reported to Immigration as he entered, they aloud him to stay and fight his case in the court after spending a month in a detention center, we have been married for almost 10 years and we have a 9 year old daughter. I'm US citizen and a US NAVY active duty member, my daughter was born in Florida and we have been fighting to get my husband green card for over 9 years, he has always work and pay his taxes and have never got any kind of trouble with the law. where are the family right act, and my rights as US citizen to live my life WITH my family without having the stress of this situation and a possibility of a deportation.
Family should be number 1 priority for AMERICA
Gingrich said “The American people believe English should be the official language of the government. . . . We should replace bilingual education with immersion in English so people learn the common language of the country and they learn the language of prosperity, not the language of living in a ghetto,” Gingrich said, drawing cheers from the crowd of more than 100. (Said in 2007 before the National Federation of Republican Women)
POST the comments; they are legitimate and respectful...moderation should not pick and choose points of views to post.
Dr. Paul, what concrete plans do you have to turn our children's education around?
If CNN wants to be fair, they need to acknowledge the fact that Gingrich did make a comment regarding "ghetto" languages. CNN not presenting a fair case and attempting to cast Romney as a liar is the exact reason that some people are turning CNN off. Please present the actual record before the debate is over. CNN is too good to fall in standing because of such things.
Do you believe in that global warming is exacerbated by carbon emissions?
Would you work to control damage to the planet?
If fracking leads to earthquakes, and/or poisons drinking water, would you regulate fracking?
Why is that Newt Gingrich fights for American;ideas,issues,and solutions? While Mitt Romney fights for himself to get elected?
Please ask all candidates a simple yes-or-no question: are corporations people?
According to Mitt's tax returns he did 40 million plus in income in the last two years, can any candidate on the stage tell us how many jobs he created with that profit (other than election staff and expenses). Is there a Mitt factory somewhere?
The speaker did say spanish language is a living gehtto.
China is starting to buy oil using its currency which is putting great pressure on the value of the dollar. If you are president what would you do to stop that from happening?
Romney tries to side step the same accusation against him that he wants to shriek about Gingrich.
Anyone notice that Newt agreed to stop, but Romney wouldn't? While waffling about his misleading ad?
Romney is becoming a joke. . . . .
Should we put our monetary system back on the Gold Standard?
All the candidates talk small govt and less expenses but looking at the campaigning expenses and money they raise to defeat other indicates something different..so who knows what would happen when they are in the power ?? !!
Turning this country around is the main subject at hand. Removal of Obama is first and moremost. Obama signed an executive order granting a Brazilian oil company 2 billion dollars to drill for oil off of Brazil and ship the product to China. Obama refuses to allow the canadian oil line through the heart of this country – WHY! It is time that America wakes up and smells the coffee & votes whoever of these candidates it takes to clean out the white house, reverse all of these executive orders, reduce the size of government and give us who have fought for this country and have paid taxes all of our lives the America we want & deserve
Mr. Romney
Given the Republican statement that the wealthy are the JOB creators, implying the wealth is always used in this manner.
With your recent 20 Million dollar income (- your 13.9% tax), what percentage went directly to "JOB CREATION" ??
I would like to know if any of the presidential candidates would be in favor of removing caps, for both employer and employee, on the Medicare/FICA taxes? It seems collecting these taxes on huge bonuses and salaries would go a long way to help pay for the expanding Medicare as well as the unemployment costs. (Those paying and receiving would equally share the cost and would not hinder the small struggling businesses).
Thank you,
To all the gop candidates: Are you for or against the passage of the ERA? If you are for it, what would you do to help ease it's passage?
DO not care for tonight's moderator......too much attention to Gingerich and Romney..........also showing discrimination in his question to Ron Paul. The people want to know the agenda for each candidate.......not the offensive/defensive remarks between Romney and GIngerich.
What supreme court decisions do you like/dislike, why?
there is a great divide in the nation where 1% of the nation own more and posses more than the 99% of the nation. The Occupy movement is asking for equality in taxes, taking money out of politics and elections, health care reform for everybody, urgent assistance to the student loan debt that is about to reach 1 trillion dollars, freeze on all foreclosures, protect entitlements for our seniors, more investments on other sources of energy and protecting the environment, to name a few; if all these issues are accepted by a large majority of Americans, why don't you embrace the Occupy Movement and accept a crude reality that they are unveiling? All of you use terms used by the Occupy movement. why are you so afraid to accept the movement and its ideals?
If Iran obtains a nuclear weapon, would you support military action against it? What will you do to stop Iran from getting a weapon?
-Daniel Hamidi
How come African-Americans make up appr. 15% of the population in this country but more than 62% of prison.
Wolf, why don't you ask the question "which one of you will demand that President Obama release his medical records, his school records, and his passport records?" John McCain was vetted. We are still waiting for our current CIC of 3 years to be fully vetted.
Funny thing Wolf, you and the rest of the media has given President Obama a free pass on this.
I am appalled at the manner in which this debate is being conducted. To pitch these candidates against one another on trivial issues is not helping us make a decision about who would be the strongest president. It is only helping Obama in his reelection campaign. Let get positive and stop the bickering.
what will america look like in 2012 if obama is re-elected
Hi CNN, am a Nigerian, writting from France. My question is:
America is a great country we all look at with admiration, your policies do affect us one way or the other... also activities here do affect America now...Can these candidaites tell us what they know about Africa, Asia and Europe... like their travel history to outside America
Will Mitt Romney unseal his arrest record, and do the candidates believe that someone who is arrested for disobeying a law enforcement officer is fit to be the president and the leader of the Free World?
Former President Reagan's star wars and increased defense spending was an extraordinary boom for employment and vaulted the United States to the superpower that she became. What would either one of our candidates do to return us to our former glory.
Now that you've had a chance to feel the effects of the citizens united decision and given the fact that it paves the way for a corporation that has foreign investors to influence the American political process, as well as give the very wealthy greater influence, do you support the Supreme Court's decision?
What would the candidates think of stopping all foreign aid to Mexico until THEY seal their northern border. Once sealed, approval of aid on yearly basis for keeping it sealed would be appropriate as part of a new immigration policy. The Mexican Citizens who are here could then be fast tracted to legalization because border would be closed. This would then be a starting point for new revised immigration laws.
To Newt, If you were the leader of the free world President of the United States, would you have a problem if someone addressed you by your first or last name and not Mr. President? I would to hear his answer.
Mer:
And as Gingrich said, he didn't say "Spanish was the language of the ghetto". . . . . .Romney lied. . . .again. As usual. As Newt has repeatedly said.
And Romney woudn't agree to stop with the "decietful" ads and the "inflammatory rhetoric" that he whines about. . .
Remember, Romney was the person that opened this pandoras box in Iowa. . . now he has a glass jaw. . . .
QUESTION FOR THE CANDIDATES:
Today the picture of AZ Governor Brewer wagging her finger in President Obama's face was omnipresent. What do the candidates feel/think the governor's display vis-a-vis the respect and gravitas of the office of president?
This is one of the worst debates of all the the debates. Wolf Blitzer is not a good moderator and seems to be trying to be inflammatory. He has wasted a lot of time trying to get Romney and Gingrich to argue about issues between the two. Blitzer should be keeping the debate focused on the real issues. Serious voters aren't interested in superficial issues like "who makes the most money," and calling for their health reports. I want to know about the economy, repealing Obamacare, and getting people back to work. CNN needs to hire a new moderator.
The only truthful politician of all of them is Ron Paul!!!
Blitzer questions are proof there have been way to many debates. He can't ask questions about issue of interest to American he can only try and stir up controversy on personal issues. American are tired of this type of journalism. Enough already!
If the private sector promotes profits and capitalism, how do we respond when they destroy our atmosphere – like they do our waterways sending rockets into space?
I will ask this again! Where is the respect from any of the candidates when talking about President Obama? Wolfe addresses Mr. Gingrich as speaker, but every time Mr. Gingrich talks of the President, it's always just Obama! Where is his respect? Again, like him or nor, agree with him or not, but darn it, show some respect and call him President Obama!!!!
why do you, Wolf, seem to want candidates to argue about issues of personal nature instead of issues of great importance to this nation? CNN is clearly trying to keep the public from hearing the republicans response to the real issues
So, what about Wikileaks and other similar organizations? Do you believe that the government should be totally transparent? Also, do you believe that Julian Assange should have been arrested for running this website? (what happened to free speech?) (To all candidates)
Given the choice of federal stimulus or the possibility of economic depression which do you favor and why?
Candidates: All of you have preached that you will CHANGE the what Washington is, 4 years ago we had a someone campaign on this principle. All of you claim the president's changed policies have failed, How is your change going to be any different?
My questions to all the candidates is this: Since everyone wants to cut back on spending, is anyone going to impliment restrictions on all of congress and senate and house of representatives that they quit flying first class or quit charging the use of private jets to the taxpayers and take the vote out of their hands about themselves voting their own raises? My father worked for HUD and EDA and Jack Kemp put in a private elevator so as not to have to ride up with the public. When is Congress and the House and the Senate going to revamp their benefits, insurance, so as to make it equal with the norm of America? We are not here to serve you, you are here to serve us! One of our great politicians said, an honest politician will not get rich while working in office. Will you make it illegal to buy stocks from companies they are doing business with so they can't get rich off the back of Americans? Thank you!
Can we please get to the current policies and how the president is handling them and what the current candidates would do about the problems we face today. This is just another Newt and Mitt fight. I have not heard the current president's name mentioned once. His policies are the reason we want a new president and we are just hearing these two fight.
you all have worked, or currently working in public service for the people. What can you do for us as president you can not do for us now or when you where in public service?
Regards
SY
explain how you protect the rights of a fetus, but then decline the civil rights of the homosexual community.
Ron Paul's laugh was awesome! lol... He got Gingrich good with that one, so good he had to agree.
what will america look like in 2016 if obama is re-elected
Everything we pretty much have today, from computers to velcro, can be attributed to the fact that we went into space. In order to climb up from the bottom, we're going to have to do more than just raise this or cut that. We will need a new industry
although he compalined about not having the crowd the crowd noise is not helping newt tonite
Do you believe that members of Congress should be forbidden from trading stock with companies that they may in any way have insider knowledge of through committees or otherwise?
If the moderator would let the audiance ask the questions, we would probably find out more about what they stand for and what they would do for us. This CNN moderator has done nothing but try to pit them against each othe and waste air time, could this be intentional??? Sad Sad debate. CNN Moderator the worst .... I want to know how they will get us out of the mess Obama got us into, I do not care about their money, their like for each other, their past mistakes, Only what they can do for us now, and how they can get Obama out...
will there be a future for NASA or do we just shut it down.
Reagan raised the debt ceiling 18 times for a total increase of 199%.
ron paul was right.
What would be the problem with the elimination the taxing of the citizens earned income and having a flat sales tax across the board. Removing the Department of Education eliminating most of the useless Departments of the government that have either slacked off or undermine their jobs. Alsowould it hurt to eliminate the IRS and Federal Reserve.
Candidates should be asked about health care coverage, jobs, unions, etc., which are the things that are important to democrats, who have legitimate concerns.
what are your feelings on developing a state of the art railway system here to move people and goods that would relieve the congestion on the roads.
Does Ron Paul plan on weaponizing space? He said that space is only for national security. I see that as a plan to put weapons in the space. I wonder if that is true.
explain how every other industrialized nation has national healthcare. why can't we? medicine should be our RIGHT not a massive cost.
same old questions. please have the cnn person provide questions debating the candidates differences to the marxist's supreme ruler's dictates regarding the loss of jobs, the nflrb loaded with union thugs, the increase of EPA reguations that are determined to hurt citizen's chances of employment, home building and the CRUSHING OF BIG BUSINESS(JOBS), ask the candidates about the loss of jobs to brazil and china and why we subsidize them and others while providing tax-payer funds to our enemies.
Can any of you give Obama credit for any of the positive changes that have occurred under his administration? Are political candidates responsible for the rhetoric that insults other nations and causes tension and instability among our allies and our adversaries?
Should the death penalty be abolished in the United States and why? (To Gov. Romney)
I am in college and am a regular marijuana smoker. I hold a 3.7 gpa and am an active member within university activities. Would you decriminalize marijuana under your presidency?
Did Rick Santorum just blow the election for any Republican! 20 years ago we had a Democratic President and Santorum did reference how good things were 15-20 years go!
A Democratic president is a given, considering Republicans that keep focusing on finances, ex-spouses etc., talk about the REAL issues.....people without jobs,lost their home, no health care, can't afford food to eat or medicines and can't afford childcare.It is really pathetic when candidates are so out of touch with the real world and the daily problems that people face just to survive.
Ron Paul 2012 .Congress and the media reject Mr. Paul because he can't be bought.He wants to end the endless wars and the MIC that feeds them. He's intelligent,a veteran and one of the true patriots in government.
I'm 60 and an Independent. He's got my vote.
Mr. Gingrich, Why is it that you cannot look at the other candidates in the eye when you are in a debate with (any of them?00)
What would you do as president to increase consumer demand or lower employment costs to get people back work?
After Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, now Florida I haven"t heard any serious discussion about reducing the deficit as President Clinton had done. These guys should be sent to the moon. Just critciisms and senseless blaming and selling of un-achieveable dreams.
My son is a sophomore in college and will be 21 when he graduates. If the insurance bill is killed he will not be on my policy until age 26. It will take time to find a job with insurance. What is he supposed to do until then? Ask the Republican candidates that question.
To Me To You I just Heard stick to Issue ,Ok Offspring Show Me No Us Under affair e passing a Law Obs , Viewpoint i Vigorous feel the pain and injury and to or back you swing and as strong-bark you understand they Have stated to cut us one by one ,THe true contexts of my question is Identified THe Interest : a $100,000.00 sum of lent at : $xxxx.xx what loan at 5% percent % Interest and if you make one extra pay ment a year how many years do you using Perhaps Common Financial ones . dealing a blow to America people Ray Obama Armando Saucedo The Government is the seed to our soul and our land home farmland umbrella ? something big call the american family. what wrong , Ok I am a small Buseniss owner that last 20 plus years rank number one early detection security but i was a Dem, so i did not call President for help i call a republican he said no help so sw/ to republican and since i call Barack Obama My dad he trying to help , i say you Replublican , I paid my home off in 2006 did i tell you Bank of America Sold it with no paper work so I "do that" perhaps hideous or unwillingly you invested in mac , do you you now no but know you will bank have rip me off 5million and you loan – sharking money excessive practice ,Amer Keep Change Loan-shift
Paul didn't answer the question. If she had her own insurance, then how can she pay for it without money? She doesn't have a job to get money to pay for the insurance. Or didn't he hear that? It seems that everyone is ignoring the fact that she doesn't have money coming in.
Would like to see this debate in Iowa. Or anyplace else. republiCONS are surely playing their field the best they can. All seem to have their "mojo" goin' on' and their baracuda teeth open. It is better than reality TV and all the political channels combined. Never have I seen this much entertainment combined with reaity! Simpy amazing! You decide why! For myselff, I already know what the issues are.
Would the candidates be willing to say that the increased cost of health care leads to the increased cost of insurance
Should illegal immigrants be given medical care at our hospitals, which are currently required to treat everyone, regardless of their ability (or inability) to pay for their care?
Santorum, how can you talk about students not focusing and being geared towards science and math when you don't support three very important areas of science, evolution, global-warming, and the science of woman's medical health.
John Baldys:
Obama himself referred to Senator McCain as "John" during all the debates, stripping him of his honorary title repeatedly. . . .while McCain consistently referred to him as Senator Obama.
Why would anyone extend the courtesy to Obama, that he does not extend to others. . . .and why are you insisting on that which he doesn't extend to others?
And why is that important tonite?
Do you believe in the phrase found in the nations's "pledge of Allegience"..... "One Nation, Under God", and if so, would you support allowing God and prayer back into our schools and government?
If Dr. Paul is not President , which of you, if elected , promises to appoint Dr. Paul chairman of the Federal Reserve ?
one liners are not mitt's friend!
Didn't they know about HDHP and HSA?
Wolf you are doing a great job and, you can tell because these people are trying to knock each other out! Ask them how in the heck they plan on debating our President when they cannot even have a conversation with each other ? Rich people should just chill and enjoy their ill-gotten gains and leave the real work to honest, descent, people who DID NOT HURT, STEAL, OR CHEAT their way to prosperity!!!
When will we get a candidate to admit that Bill Clinton signing the NAFTA agreement was a huge mistake
Ron Paul is doing great! But what's really important is that we're looking at 4 rich white guys who want to run our country. If you think they care about you ... I'll leave it at that.
Dr. Paul, I am very interested in the Austrian system of economics. Could you explain in some degree of detail the basic principles of this school of thought?
Health insurance. How about the canidates give up there insurance. I bet then it would change.
Enough of the blatant bias against Romney CNN! I cannot believe you took the time in the middle of the debate to single out Romney on whether it was a PAC ad or his ad about Gingrinch AND DIDNT take the time to point out that Gingrich actually said "Spanish is the language of the ghetto". Unbelievable. So tell me what's worse? Romney not remembering if it was his ad or a PAC ad...or the hateful comments by Gingrich? According to Blitzer's pathetic display it looks to me you feel Romney not remembering is worse! Pathetic. But let's cut to the chase we all know why you pull stuff like this. You FEAR Romney will beat Obama and you know Gingrich has no shot. It's really a sad, pathetic display of a news organization I once trusted. It's depressing that the once impartial news organization is gone so far to the left. What a shame.
Do you have a message for couples who lost their job, own the house that is worth less then they own on the mortgage, can't be approved for short sale, are they too small to fail?
Also why can't a president repeal the agreement
Would any candidate support making veterans exempt from tax?
I am a student at Virginia and I believe that the VDOE and Nation's education system is not challenging enough. Education is what will educate the minds of tommorow. If you are elected what will you do to bring back the great American Education?
Why do we talk about tax rates (as a percentage of income) instead of total dollar amount contributed? Of course someone with fewer earnings will pay a higher percentage, but the high earning individuals clearly outweigh in total dollar contributions. Am I missing something?
Please ask what entitlement programs the candidate would outright cut and specifically how they would scale back other entitlement programs.
Would any of the four canidates as president would sign a bill into law, raise taxes on capital gains, when the dividends were from a company that does the majority of their manufacturing from a different country, and lower taxes on capital gains when the divdends come from a company whose manufacturing base is in the United States?
With our country experiencing financial ruin, why do the candidates feel it is appropriate to belittle one another instead of campaigning in a positive manner. I believe as a tax paying citizen, any candidate participating in negative commentary or advertising should be required to leave the campaign! Why are they allowed to treat citizens with such flagrant disrespect?
One Simple Question. DO the candidates realize how out of touch they are? Someone ask Mitt Romney Does he have a clue that he has no idea what is like to be one of us????
President Obama hasn't been responsible for any positive changes in this country!
Gov. Romney,
You are a very prominent member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormonism). How could you possibly believe in this religion which is polytheistic, hypocritical, and just plain wrong?
All candiates- what do you think of the work of Planned parented programs?
I would like to know with the state of the economy, with QE I and QE II failing, with Bernanke stealing money out of our pockets what would you do as president to return us to SOUND money?
Speaker Gingrich states that he will repeal Dodd-Frank and Obamacare. His mentor Reagan campaigned on a promise to eliminate the Department of Education. He not only did not, but expanded this bureaucracy 4-fold over four years. How can we believe that Speaker Gingrich would repeal Dodd-Frank and Obamacare?
The candidates are so far removed from understanding health care reform, they should begin by consulting the helath care professionals that work in health care everyday. When a company that is self-funded spends millions of dollars each year to cover their employees, there is no tax deduction.......example would be a not for profit hospital...Mr Romney where is the tax deductions? Also, with health care reform faith based hospitals will now be forced to cover birth control which prior to health care reform was not mandated.
What would you do to abolish major U.S. corporations' practices of the use of child labor in poor countries in order to provide mass production of consumer products sold here in the U.S. by major stores?
Mr. Wolf please ask what do they do for investment properties bec I just did a loan Motification and got deny. I feel why would they want anyother foreclurse and it's Freddi Mac thank you!!!!
None of the candidates addressed the issue of the unemployed woman without healthcare. National healthcare woud resolve this problem. "Obamacare" has nothing to do with this woman's problem.
Over charging by doctors and hospitals as well as health care providers is a big part of why Health Insurance is so high today. The same is true when medicare and medicaid is billed. Stop the fraud. Stop the over charging for services. This would go a long way in reducing the cost of health insurance costs.
How will my granddaughter be able to afford tuition in the future under this economic mess?
We all know females need more education than males hands down just to keep a roof over their heads.
Please ask what the effect of the 15% flat tax would have on a family
earning $40000-80000 who currently pay at a lower rate?
Wouldn't it represent a tax hike on the middle class?
Would it be revenue neutral or revenue increasing?
Brain gain was happened to America for longer time around the globe....But it seems all these people looking back to go their own countries....What step you would take to stop brain drain from America...in this economic conditions...
The candidates are talking about people being able to have health insurance because they work. Well I am one of the millions of Americans who do have a job. I work by the way in the health care system. No health insurance. Hand tremors on a daily basis, erratic heart beats, joint pain on a daily basis, no health insurance. How do they purpose to help me?
Listen, I live in MA, and everyone I know that has Masshealth are able to get coverage w/low copays and very low pharmacy copays.
Poor Newt is imploding. Goverment funded space colony on the moon....
Wow. . . Santorum is doing very well. . . . . .
Interesting. . . he's finally finding his chops.
Rick was very much on topic with Hondouras and the horrendous way Obama treated that nation when all they were trying to take care of their "constitution."
#CNNDebate
Dr Paul after you Bring all the troops home what will be your plan to get the troops a job? With so many at home unemployed.
I see failures, numbered 1-4 up there.
I still have not heard any of the candidates say what they would do for the VETERANS like my self and the others soon to come home to unenployment. I feel my country dont care for the risk we took. I think this country simply dont care
Please ask the candidates how they know if the President's goals are failures since he has not had the opportunity to implement them without Republican roadblocks? If they become President, how can they assure us that they will not run into the same roadblocks and can guarantee they can keep all of these promises themselves and that they wont be in the same boat as President Obama?
How on earth an unemployed woman can buy her health insurance if she is unemployed??????? Is the health insurance going to be ten dollars per month??????????????????????????????????
Ron Paul: How can you simultaneously be against "big government" and chide Wolf Blitzer for violating Anti-Discrimination laws?
I don't have Masshealth because I can afford health insurance, but I know if I no longer had a job I could easily obtain Masshealth benefits. Just trying to get facts out there.
If elected President, how would the candidates stop the idiotic bickering in Congress between the Democrats and Republicans and encourage them to work for the good of the American people, pass legislation favorable to the middle class and working people?????
If the taxpayers took the risk when we bailed out GM & Chrysler, and they are now profitable companies, why don't the taxpayers enjoy those profits, possibly in the form of deficit reduction?
Has Newt held a private sector job that didnt generate revenues from the government in the last 30 years?
Anyone ever thought about how much money we would save if the US quit printing everything in everybody elses language. No other country would even consider that. If you can't speak English you better learn. We could save billlions.
If 'Obamacare' is unconstitutional because it 'forces' Americans to buy insurance via a tax penalty then isn't the Child Tax Credit also unconstitutional as it 'forces' Americans to have children via a tax penalty if they don't?
Santorum is absolutely right. . .
Romney consistently tries to sidestep the fact, MA already had 97% coverage. . . . . .
Romney's arrogance and glibness is going to come back around to bite him. . . . .he looks smug.
Romneycare is one of the main reasons that he's not the "annointed" one. . he shouldn't be glib about criticizms against the largest problem Romney has. . . . .
What is the opinion of the candidates on the enormously costly and controversially ineffective and unconstitutional drug prohibition or the "war on drugs" as politicians say?
Mitt Romney: How can a President repeal the Affordable Health Care Act? Is he running for King? Since when do Presidents legislate?
I do not think that he should stated it is not worth get excited or angry about it most certainly is..
If you can't speak English you should not be voting anyway.
Why is paying your medical bill if you don't have insurance a "fine?" Are you kidding me? Paying what you owe is a fine? Come on Mr. Santorum!
Please ask: Do you think government owned land resources and off shore natural resources, should be developed to replace taxes and make sure nobody goes hungry in our country? You know more like Brazil or Qatar model. We don't even have to have taxes if we didn't give our resources away to a hand full of companies when they are owned by the American people.
Dang, Paul that was in the late 1700's!LOL
What do the candidates think of John Kennedy's statement,
"Ask not what your country can do for you, Ask what you can do for your country."
Obama's student loan plan only covers loans taken out after 2008. What plans do you have to help recent college graduates from the class of 2011 and earlier who are still struggling to repay loans?
As Santorum speaks about. . . .
Ask the candidates how they will encourage manufacturing to come back.
This whole in the economy is what is harming us. It's the "black hole" you can't see but it destroying the middle class. . . .
What would each do to bring back the backbone of our nation, manufacturing?
A question for Senator Santorum – Sir, you mentioned that your grandfather came to this country legally and that is the right thing to do. I fully agree with the principle – however, if you look at the most recent visa bulletin from the state department, a person from Mexico would have to wait anywhere from 6 years to 16 years in line for a green card – would you agree this is a very different situation from the time of your grandfather and therefore the terms of the discussion have to change as well?
This is for all the candidates: You have all acknowledged the immigration problem and the jobs being taken from legal residents. At the same time we have corporate America sending jobs overseas taking advantage of low cost labor for both manufacturing and IT industries. If elected president, what would you do to keep the jobs at home?
Do you believe that cheap government is good government?
newt is lacking spunk tonite
Paul doesn't understand that there were always people in need. He doesn't explain where the $1 Trillion would be cut from. I would like some details on that. Why doesn't he say that on air in the debate?
Do you believe a company can be too big too fail? If so, does that result from monopolistic imperfect competition? Also, what are the unintended consequences of subsidized bailouts? Do they incentivize bad behavior?
As to healthcare, the question was not answered: how could an unemployed person get health care?
Question for Santorum: Why choose Marco Rubio when he was pro SOPA and PIPA which is against freedom of speech?
I was a Firefighter for 24 years, I am rertired now..
.
My son is a sophomore in college and will be 21 when he graduates. If the insurance bill is killed he will not be on my policy until age 26. It will take time to find a job with insurance. What is he supposed to do until then? Ask the Republican candidates that question.
What is wrong with individual mandates for health insurance? DOn't we have it for auto insurance?
Individual mandates will solve more problems than it will create.
Delinking health insurance form employment is a good idea.
The hypocrisy of this debate is astounding...it is so flagrant that they are courting our Hispanic vote but just a few years ago these guys were angry about the suggestion of having our American children learn Spanish in school. So transparent.
To all of the republican candidates:
The state of Georgia mandates that I maintain insurance on my vehicle. The state mandates that I enter into a private contract with an insurance company to own and drive a vehicle. How can the state do this, when you claim that the state mandating a healthcare plan is against the Constitution? What is the difference?
Why can't we just have the same healthcare coverage that Gingrich, Paul and Santorum have as members an former members of Congress? Or maybe they should have to pay for coverage like we do.
Wolf :..Ask these guys...All Americans deserve the SAME insurance at the SAME price as our politicains have.PLUS we pay for their insurance as well their subsidized hair cut & free gym etc etc...WE ALL deserve the same....that means we all will be in the same boat....
Why chose Rubio who lidd about his family's flight to the US?
Does the Necessary and Proper Clause expand or limit Federal Legislative Power? What about the General Welfare Clause?
As president, what will you do about the overwhelmingly unfunded entitlement payments due to social security beneficiaries?
See, doctors would still be affordable if the cost of living didn't go up. Because the economic system we live in is currently controlled by the world bank, our dollar will always be worth less each year because of the debt that backs it. That is why everything is more expensive. We don't need to fix our economy, we need an overhaul. We need to start printing our money, then maybe it will actually be worth the paper it is printed on. Because it is not currently. That's why I back Ron Paul
Wolf ; sorry I am referring to HEALTH Insurance in my previous post.
WOLF BLITZER IS DOING A HORRIBLE JOB! He should have absolutely let Santorum continue his back n forth with Romney on the health care issue!!! Santorum was absolutely right and Romney was totally skwirming because he couldn't get out of it and Wolf interrupts??? but Wolf encourages the stupid debate between Gingrich and Romney about making money off FNMA and FRMC and even suggested at one point if they would both consider paying their money back??????? I can't stand it anymore. First John King and now this.
If Mitt remembers, it was the understanding of American's investing in companies doing business in South Africa that brought down the Racisit Apartied government, We knew then as he knows now where is investments are being made.
The same Marco Rubio? That Talks Big but Fails to Deliver?
Marco Rubio Really Admires Dead Racist Jesse Helms
So, Marco Rubio is going around calling America "weakened." He blames it on Social Security, Medicaid and Medicare.
spent thousands with GOP credit card
Records show Rubio sent payments to American Express totaling $13,900 for his personal expenses during his tenure as House speaker. But those payments were not made monthly. He made no contributions to the bill during a six-month stretch in 2007, records show.
This question is for Wolfe...I watch CNN everyday and really like your show but I gotta tell ya Mr. Blitzer, I had hoped your questions would be more substantive than they have been. There are sooOOOooo many things that need to be addressed. Come on Wolf "BRING IT"!!!
From 2006, the number of uninsured Massachusetts residents dropped from about 6% to 5.4%-5.7% in fall 2007, depending on the methodology used,[35] to about 3% in June 2009 according to the Massachusetts Department of Healthcare Finance and Policy (DHCFP).
Comparing the first half of 2007 to the first half of 2009, spending from the Health Safety Net Fund dropped 38%-40% as more people became insured.
Why does the Federal Government supporting two classes of retired military veterans. Those retired veterans with more than 50% disabilities get full retirement compensation and full disabilitiy compensation, while honorably retired veterans with less than 50% disabilitity ratings having their retirement reduced by the full amount of their disability compensation. What will you do provide veterans their full earned retirement pay and their full earned disability pay and support the promises our government made to all our veterans at the time of their enlistments?
What kind of stupid questions. . . . .Wolf. . . .no one cares about this. . . .why his wife would make the best first lady?
Comonnnnnnnnnnnn . . .
What does Santorum have against people having health insurance? I am a professional registered nurse and a republican and fail to understand why Republicans think health insurance is a privilege to be earned. We make people buy car insurance and people willingly buy health insurance. What is so wrong with buying health insurance? It keeps you healthy, pays doctors and hospitals. There are a lot of good things in "Obama-care" guys .. eliminating pre-existing condition clauses, etc.
What about people who have pre-existing medical conditions such as Croins, or Type 1 diabetes? Could you promise that a health insurance company would ever insurance us and would we be able to afford what they would want us to pay?
There is only one honest person on that stage- RON PAUL 2012
"why would your wife make the best First Lady?"
Jesus H Christ, Wolf! This is the question you ask with so many substantive issues facing voters?
Ron Paul doesn't care to pander to the Latinos, but still backed them. All the others had names memorized – and you could see them struggling to remember them. GO RON!!!.
CNN, the network that brought you Nancy Grace, now gives you Wolf Blitzer as the moderator of a debate. Because of this, he let Romney and Newt go on ad nauseum about immigration and who said what. If I were Dr Paul or Sen Santorum, I would have asked if Wolf were aware that there were four on stage.
It's a debate for the nomination of the GOP candidate for President of the United States, and it's being run like it's a contest to see who makes 'American Idol'.
The process has been allowed to degenerate into a laughing stock.
Why is Wolf asking such stupid questions? CNN has turned into a reality TV show. SAD!
Why can't all Americans receive the same type of programs which are enjoyed by our legislators including health care and retirement?
We don't want to hear about the first lady right now!! talk about the REAl issues I stated earlier.
To All: You all claim that you will make all these changes to the government just like Obama said he would. He has been struggling with congress not allowing him to do many of the thigns he wanted to acomplish. What will you do if congress doesnt work with you to get your plans acomplished.
S.B Stein, Dr. Pauls proposed budget and the 1 trillion in cuts is on the internet, in detail, much detail. Please don't count on a 1 minute debate answer. Look it up.
can't wait to hear the newt's answer
What would the candidates do as President to stop outsourcing and bring the jobs back home so that the United States can once again be the country that invents, builds and markets our own products?
What is Mr Santorum's and Mr Paul's plan to make health care more affordable? My father who was a doctor and surgeon can't believe what it costs today for care compared to what it used to cost. If you were to go into a doctor's office without medical insurance you are treated as if you are from the a different planet. I had to offer to pay with my credit card and even then the staff didn't know what to charge me.
To all Candidates,
If Iran is a threat to the United States, would you choose to follow the Constitution and go to the Congress to debate and then declare the war?
Can we get some good question?
How will each of the candidates ensure that social security survives?
Why can't we just have the same healthcare coverage that members of Congress have?
Question for all canidates-If elected as President, and do not keep your promises/statements, will you resign?????
How could Willard Mitt make a significant mistake on his Federal financial filling form? Revising financial disclosure form filed with the Office of Government Ethics - all that money and his team forgot to include offshore investment in the Bermudas, Ireland, Cayman islands and of course the always popular Switzerland.
Anyone else here notice that nothing is ever Romney's fault?
Super Pac ads? Nope. . not his fault.
Other ads? "Haven't seen them all, am I running one of those?"
"I have a blind trust, I don't control what is invested where. . . ."
"I can't control Super Pac ads. . . . ."
Nothing is everrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr Romney's fault. . . .it's always someone else's fault. . . .someone else did it. . .
Look pal we already have one of those in office. .. his name is Obama. . ..we don't need another one. . . . .
Hate that we are asking about the wives! Irrelevant!
It's about time the Republican candidates stopped with the POLUTION. My made up word for "polluted politics".
Let's ask them to agree on a truce and stick to the important issues.
1. Rick Santorium's questions to Romney regarding his state's healthcare is not considered polution. However, the questions NEED to be in the form of how do you explain instead of an attack forum.
2. Also, to have the candidates agree to "actions speak louder than words"...eg. President Obama.... and all agree that they will NOT make big claims to do things that they can NOT do.
Thank you.
Why don"t we stop talking about raising the base for social security and fix the problem? Eliminate the exemptions for the seven million plus people who are not currently paying and make them start paying next month. We are then in balance.
Please dont ask Newt the question about the spouse as the First lady:
Am not going to lie to my nieces, my daugthers that you can be the other lady and end up 1st Lady.
Nope that alone would never make me vote for Newt Gingrich.
What we shuold be worried about is who is Newt messing with/////
Obama's is a national power grab & unconstitutional. If a state doesn't get it right (10th amendment) they lose their tax payers. In other words you can get away from it by moving. Obamacare? Where can you run to get away?
Seriously???!!!! People in our country are starving and you're asking about why their wives would be the best first lady??!!! Stick to the issues that people really care about!
Mr. Romney talks about how many job's he has created and what I would like to know is how many good job's with a living wage and benefit's have been lost do to his action's and how are minimum wage job's at Domino's, Staple's etc. a good trade off in his opinion.
What in the world does a question about potential First Ladies have to do with electing a President Of the United States? How much more irrelevant can we get with this line of questioning. We have so many problems and this is just a waste of time. One of them should tell you that...
What are their views on the 2nd Amendment
Can we get some good question? This is crap.
Where do you candidates stand on term limits. If the Most powerful office in this wonderful country is ONLY TWO, Why do Sentante and Congress get life terms and all the benefits? Let's cut the fat out let's start with all of them!
Canidates are say "I will repeal Obama care". Maybe I missed that day in civics class, but I thought the Legislative branch made and repealed laws? The office of President is the head of the Executive branch. The continued misrepresetation of how the process works is why we have a useless government. We need to question how they plan to rewrite the Constitution so that we elect a monarch, or we need candidates that are honest about our system works.
Question: Would any candidate propose to eliminate the 16th & 17th amendments? Thank you.
9:19 p.m. ET – Gingrich also mentioned Rubio, saying he was thinking of a more "central and dignified" role for the Florida senator than a cabinet post.
Apparently cabinet-level positions are not dignified to Newt. Is he quasi-promising Rubio VP even though Rubio already criticized him for false ads this week?
Please ask this question to the candidates: Would you support selling the moon in order to balance the deficit?
How come the candidates didn't answer the women's question on health care. She's out of work now and doesn't have the funds for healthcare. They basically explained what happens when she gets a job. So what are they going to do for the millions with out healthcare now!!!!! Explain that???
Dr. Ron Paul, what do you think about FPL's monopoly as energy distributor/provider for most Floridian homes and businesses?
Why is Romney talking about someone else being a lobbist for feddie mac when he has election staff that were lobbist for freddie mac? Also Romney is the one who started all the personel attacks in Iowa in order to win. He is doing just like Obama trying to win by puttiing down his opponents instead of running on his own ideas.
Ron Kindest regards final smooth over the disagreement best we could under circumstances mistake and be open my mother lies not so only best man risked on ? sell your ? stock ? or you bet Surely you my expect try i say this Ron Look like a good bet
What about the working poor in our nation that can't pay for the cost of living becuse of greedy employers!!!!!
To all Candidates: I am a disabled Veteran, what would each of you do to make sure that all disabled Veterans would be taken care off and continue to keep their benefits?
Ron Paul: Your domestic ideas sound pretty good, but our foreign policy and military needs to be the strongest in the world – or we will be screwed! One more attack on America and it is over for our economy!
I would like to pose the question: "What is the single most important issue that must be dealt with when the Republicans take control of the Presidency and the house and senate in 2012? There are a lot of questions being asked that are of no consequence, for instance "Which wife would make the best First Lady?" Who cares? There are so many other issues that are so very important that must be dealt with. Let's talk about those and quit with the chit chat. There are important issues and there are unimportant issues. Let's drop the unimportant ones and deal with what is most important.
What I really want to hear about is what they will do with Iran, Eygpt, North Korea, and how they intend to deal with the plugged up congress, who I think is the problem.. Get off the little issue like "what kind of first lady you have"--sounds like your major in college was fluff.
someone help me understand how a goverment mandated health care policy, state or federal, is any different that a state mandated vehicle insurance. I have already thought through the "well if you run into someone it effects them as well so you have to have car insurance". People get services while not having health insurance and it actually increases my rates to cover the uninsured.
To the candidates: What is your favorite food? music? book?
Brendon:
Obama had both houses for 2 years.. . . puhhhhhlleeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaazuh!
The change in congress was sent by the voters to do exactly what you're complaining about. . . . .they were sent to stop Obama's policies. . . .. they're standing on principle. . . .
Obama had both houses for 2 years, and he chose to take over 12th of the nation's economy. . . . . .
And the nation spoke loudly in 2010 to stop him. . . .and here comes 2012. . . . .
Are you in favor of abolishing the electoral college in favor of the popular vote?
Newt, Early in the race, you were for repealing "Entitlement Payments". Will you repeal Congressional Pensions for Congress representatives?
After watching this debate, I think I will vote for Obama.
With regard to the question from the unemployed woman with respect to not being able to have Medical Insurance, all 4 candidates missed the most important issue which is how can you pay for insurance regardless of cost when you are unemployed and living weekly pay check to pay check without having any pay checks coming in. ALL 4 Republican candidates are extremely out of touch because they have not had to worry about living from pay check to pay check for many decades. Note, unemployment even in good times still runs about 5%, so all 4 Republican candidates and all Republicans are just ignoring this large portion of Americans by basically saying sink and swim including your children and family members, from now until dooms day. These are not positions that our Greatest Presidents like Teddy Rossevelt, John Kennedy and Ronald Reagan would ever say or have. Even Richard Nixon was for Medical Insurance for ALL Americans. These 4 Republican candidates, and all Republicans who oppose Medical Insurance for ALL Americans, are very sad examples of Americans !!!
What are the candidates stance requarding the 2nd amendment.?
I would like each candidate to tell the public something non political about themselves, we do not know?
As President, would you sign a bill that would decease the salary rate of the Congressmen and Senators and not allow them to give themselves raises. And also,explain why members of the congress and senate deserve full retirement benefits immediately after they leave office after serving for as little as 2 years. Serving in congress should be a privilege and no benefits should be given after they leave. They can get benefits from their private sector jobs when they leave office. This would make most of them not want to serve for very long and get rid of career politions.
Please ask these candidates how they can claim that they support freedom, but they all seek to deny others the freedom to decided for themselves when life that is uniquely human begins?. Instead they seek to impose the beliefs dictated by their religion on everyone through the law
Jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs, jobs...without them NOTHING will get better! No one is saying what they will do to create them! Obama never even mentioned them! Nuts...
To Mitt Romney: Out the 1000's of jobs you claim to have created at Bain Capitol, how many were jobs paying the $15-$20+ an hour with benefits and how many were minimum wage with no benefits?
Blitzer is with out a doubt the worst moderator yet. Get to the real issues not which wife would make a great first lady. How will that help the economy, the jobless situation and the debt?
What kind of question is your wife a great first lady? Do you expect them to say no?
I was a teacher for many years and the school closed, effectively ending my teaching career. I have too many years of experience and it is the unspoken discrimination...too old. I am under employed, bringing home $1,000 a month. Out of that $1,000 I have to pay $335. for health insurance with a $5,000 deductible. I would like to know how any of these men can relate to me in regards to monthly income. They are each very wealthy so how can they begin to tell me they know how hard it is to live on $1,000 a month? Ask them ... how can they possibly relate to those of us who are in our late 50's, can't find a job because of age discrimination, and living on in essence $12,000 a year net.
Why is Wolf Blitzer asking fluff questions and why does he keep on protecting Romney.
Do any of the candidates believe that Congress and Senate should also pay into Social Security as every American does?
The wife question is such a softball. I guess that has to be thrown in for good measure. Does it really matter? How many people are going to vote for this group because of the wife?
what would each one of you do with a do nothing congress ?How would you get it to do something?
I have a question for the candidates regarding President's Obama's "fair share". I have heard of people who are on welfare and pay no taxes yet they get tax refunds as high as $8,000.00 or even higher in some scenarios. What is your position on these people either paying taxes on the money they get from welfare since they are getting tax refunds on it or denying them tax refunds since they are not paying taxes? Also how would you frame this in a debate with President Obama?
To all candidates. What is your plan for education and how would you specifically help Florida? Also, do you support class size limits?
Wolf...ask some REA L questions..HOW are they going to create JOBS? No one has given any Definitive answers
on that..but it is a HUGE issue!! Push them for some answers. Ron Paul has given more details on that than
anyone..Give him some time to talk!!
Wolf...Question for Dr. Paul, how would you stop the abuses facing non-custodial parents in the family courts system and restore the rights of fathers. Would you repel the Bradley amendment??????
Anyone of you would be better than Obama....he just give pretty speeches.
Question- Would you support a repeal of Roe v Wade?
Can you ask the candidates what they think about our monetary policy?
I haven't worked in 4 yrs. Trying to get a job have the skills but because I don't speak Spanish I can't even get a job at McDonald's. What are your plans for making jobs equal for the american people who have lived here in america and Have College degres but can't get a job because the they don't speak Spanish?
How will you help the number one question everyone wants to know.
When will I make the money I used to make before this Recession?
Each year I keep loosing more of what took my lifetime to make.
First Lady questions? Geez, get back to serious issues!
8.7% unemployment, housing crisis, Middle East crises, reducing and simplifying tax code, cutting bureacracy, spending and red tape!
Ask Santorum how overpopulation should be addressed.
The winner of the debate tonight is Wolf Blitzer. After Monday's debacle – Ron Paul and Rick Santorum being ignored by the other network – Wolf was terrific.
I would like the candidates to address the issue of pre-existing medical conditions as it relates especially applies to children.
Can we please stop asking stupid debate questions ...... There is so much that needs discussion.
Foreign policy, economy, budget – the budget super committee failure.
Not, "who is the best first lady"
Another question: Why does Rick Santorum and some of the others think that Social Security is an entitlement when we have paid into it all of our working live?. I do not think that something we have paid into is an entitlement. An entitlement is something like welfare that people think the government owes them, not something they have paid into their entire working lives.
What do these candidates think of the leftist latin american leaders that want to destroy the OAS in order to creat an organization without the USA?
Newt is more of the established elite that's made this country slowly decline over the last decade. He was run out on a rail by his own party, and ironically enough, now seems to be the party favorite. Makes absolutely no sense to me. Only the little green men of Mars would consider a vote for Paul, and the other guy (remind me of his name~) is a nobody that wouldn't stand an iceberg's chance in hell against smooth talking ObamHa. Romney, while not perfect himself, is the best character to get the economy rolling again. He knows what it takes, whether that be making hard cuts or unpopular givings, to get big businesses back on track. And, lets face it, the gov, is the biggest business of them all.
Why is Wolf asking stupid questions that aren't even relative. Wolf is terrible!
To all GOP Presidential Candidates: Would you support a US Constitutional Amendment implementing a Federal Voter Petition Initiative whereby voters could create and put in front of voters for a binding direct democratic vote in a general or special election Petition Proposals for (1) new laws, (2) revisions or repeals of old laws, (3) recalls from office of any elected or appointed Federal official including Congresspeople, The President, and US Supreme Court Justices, and (4) US Constitutional Amendments which Petition Proposals if approved by voters cannot be vetoed by the President nor rescinded by Congresspeople but can be subject to US Supreme Court review except for Proposals for recalls of US Supreme Court Justices? [US Constitutional Support: The Ninth and Tenth Ammendments.]
I don't know how Obama can be blamed for the job situation in this country. Starting about 1995, after NAFTA was signed, manufacturing jobs started leaving this country. No one cared until the middle class could no longer pay the bills. So what are the candidates going to do about NAFTA and our other trade agreements?
I don't think any of these politicans are in touch with the general public. One woman said she was out of a job for the first time in 10 years and without insurance. Their response answered no questions but to talk about private insurance and company insurance.IThey did not really address her individual question. Well the woman has no insurance because anyone without a job can't afford individual insurance. Many companies will only hire part time employees and immigrants to avoid having to pay for their insurance. I know first hand that private insurance is so expensive and even if you get it the deductible is so high you can't afford to just get sick, you have to have a major illness before you can reach your deductible. All of my salary goes directly to my health insurance. I don't think these candidates really understand what the everyday person is going through.
In the State Of The Union Address the president suggested higher taxes for companies outsourcing jobs, and tax breaks for those hiring here in this U.S. Do you agree with this policy, or might there be a Smoot-Hawley response?
I'm liking Santorum. He'd been shoved aside in the first debates and that's a shame because I like what I'm hearing from him tonight. I'm so burned out and don't see myself voting for either Romney or Newt. So, let's hear more from Santorum.
What is wrong with higher tax on higher income? 15% out of my 100k income would have a far larger impact on my family's standard of living than 20% out of someone who earns 2 Million. They could still by a cabin cruiser while I can only afford a canoe.
Why do all of you clowns avoid talking about one of the biggest issues facing our country- social security obligations?
My question to the candidates, my son as well as many other students was able to obtain student loans to go to college through Sale Mae and now that he's graduated (Dean's List) he's unable to find employment. Since he's unemployed the only thing he can do is defer the interest on these loans which keeps building. What would you do to help students who are in this position?
I am about to graduate from college, with my bachelors degree in Criminal Justice. What is your economic plan to allow federal agencies to hire?
As President, would you sign a bill that would decease the salary rate of the Congressmen and Senators and not allow them to give themselves raises. And also,explain why members of the congress and senate deserve full retirement benefits immediately after they leave office after serving for as little as 2 years. Serving in congress should be a privilege and no benefits should be given after they leave. They can get benefits from their private sector jobs when they leave office. This would make most of them not want to serve for very long and get rid of career politicians.
Why is it that they use their titles and refer to each other with their titles, but refer to President Obama as simply Obama? If they respect each other, why not respect the President?
Will you endorse:
1.Jack Abramoff's prescription for cleaning up Washington.
2.Herman Cain's 9-9-9 tax plan.
3.Peter Schweizer's "Throw them all out"
4. Rick Perry wants part-time Congress
How about putting a cap on all medical procedures? We need a separate organization to go in and reform the medical field in all aspects! All medicines, all surgeries, medical insurances, anything medical needs to have a finite cost! As it is right now, the costs of medicine is outrageous!
Also- what difference does it make what nationality you are??? Latin or otherwise??? You get the job regardless of your ethnicity, only if you are QUALIFIED! That question was ridiculous and unfounded!
Would you promise to make ENGLISH the national language of the United States during your presidency?
I know what the Speaker thought of Paul Ryan's plan when his plan was disseminated, however, I would like to know if Newt has changed his position since that time, and what is it now?
Governor Romney, how self confident are you on debating president Obama as you well as you know he is a very good debater?
Why is it that the office of the president is limited toi 2 terms but US congress is unlimited ? Obama stated in the state of the union address there is obstacles in congress. I believe the longevity of congressional terms can cause corruption in the govt. and alot of the cleanup that needs to be done in washington can be achieved by putting term limits on congressional offices. What is the candidates view on this
Question for the candidates:
How do you feel about foreign aid, when we need domestic aid ?
WOLF : laws in State of Oklahoma states t hat ALL vehicles driven in Oklahoma MUST have mandatoryliability car insurance...SO why double standard on Health Insurance.????
PLUS,as a physician, I have to carry a minimum of 1 million malpractise insurance before i can step through the hospital doors!!!!!
So why is Health ins NOT mandatory?????
QUESTION: Do you believe America can become energy independent by developing its vast natural resources to refine oil and natural gas within its borders?
Romney, didn't make his investments nor decide what country they were made in according to his statement tonight; those decisions were made by his trustee.
What is he then trying to take credit for his success in business. All the credit 40 millions he made the last 2 years should go then to his trustee.
Don't agree?
To all the candidates: Will America be ran as a Christian, agnostic, atheist, or Universal nation under your presidency.
I'd like to know how the candidates plan to deal with entitlement abuse (ie those that are defrauding the programs) while ensuring that those that truly need programs like Medicaid and SSI (ie impoverished children and disabled children) have a solvent program to rely upon? Please ask this as it has never been addressed in any debate!!!
all candidates - What is your position on birthcontrol? Some of you believe that it is only used for sexual reasons, but that is not always the case. Some women and girls need birthcontrol to regulate themselves hormonely.
Do you even in these situations have a women be forced not to get your menstrational cyle or even have theirsfor an extanded time of time.
How do the candidates justify the mandate for emergency rooms throughout this nation to provide care regardless of the ability to pay with their resistance to mandate the ability for patients to pay for services
I hereby award the Reagan Award to Newt. Hence forth he shall be known as Newt Reagan!
This goes to Romney, a few weeks ago in a debate you were asked if you had any regrets, you said just one, attacking the men onstage with you and not attacking Obama. From what I can see, the attacks on each other have not stopped. How can Americans trust what you say if you say one thing that is a regret, but yet continue the same behavior
Rick Santorum said in a recent interview that a pregnancy that results from a rape is a gift from God. I appreciate, though disagree, with his views on abortion. He is pro-life and is so due to his religious beliefs. I do not believe one's religion should have a place in government but respect his views. That being said, is it not a contradiction to value life as he does yet support the death penalty? I am unhappy with the current administration and have no allegiance to either party but have a difficult time considering any of the Republican candidates as some of their positions contradict others they have.
To all the candidates, how do you feel about Medical Marijuana and would you try to get the Federal government out of the equation and give it to the states to decide, since it would be a tax maker profit to help each state?
Dr.Paul is getting somewhat equal time. Thank you CNN. Some great answers.
Santorum seems very angry.Some pole somewhere must of told his handlers that it will get him a boost.
Gingrich is loosing the angry white guy vote tonight. Is that a toupee ?
I'm not sure what it is, but Romney seems slimey . Reminds me of a character off the Dick Tracey cartoon.
Would like to ask if the the candidates agree that these problems that america have started with Pres Bush, and that his mess has to be fixed before a new change can come in american?
Debate what bebate!! This debate was a joke FIRE CNN!!!
Tom Conroy: the key difference is the US Constitution specifies enumerated powers the people gave to the federal government. In the opinion of most, mandating health care is not one of those powers. What States can or can't do depend on their individual State Constitutions.
@Jim Renlund-–I agree with all you said and I would like to hear more about foreign policy matters as well.
Did they clap when Newt described why his wife would make a good first lady?
I have an issue I'd like the candidates to address. I am a white middle-class college student that graduated in the top 10 of my high school class. I would like to know why I have not been able to get scholarships or qualify for financial aid while I watched a lot of my classmates qualify and get scholarships. We've had to take out federal loans for me to go to school and I'll have to pay back thousands of dollars once I graduate. I came across many scholarships that I did not qualify because I am white and middle class. What can you do to help me to further my education without being in major debt when I graduate?
Get your facts correct. Rubio has been straight forward about his family's legal immigration 3 years before the Castro revolution.
How about giving equal time to each candidate. The current system overwhelmingly favors only two of them!
I would like to know, what each candidate will do about all the money we give to countries throughout the world. Such as China, Saudia Aribia, Pakistan and all the other countries that hate us or that have MORE money then us.
What will the candidates do to help the WORKING POOR in our nation that can barely survive the cost of living becuse of low wages and greedy employers!!!!!!!!!!
Regan was a president about 30 years ago, a totaly different world, therefore we should move on and stop wondering what Regan would do or would have done.
? for the canidates? what do you feel are "necessities" in this country when it comes to food stamps?
"Why your wife would be a good First Lady?"
Newt: Callista plays the french horn and sings.
Her video/movie productions were from their company giving her the job.
Get them in that WHITE HOUSE now!!!
Rick Santorum, Do you think you have the money the fame the power to go against a billion dollar campaign?
I am a retired teacher 32 + years My healthcare cost is 50% of my retirement I am a Republican
Obama care= insurance for all–maybe a chance at a cheaper policy
Republican care=The I don't care policy
If I am in this situation, imagine what people in the poor class, and the bottom middle class are facing.
NO one can save for insurance-whats the answer to a large number of Americans who can't afford health
insurance ? IN the debate–no one had a answer for the unemployed woman–who needs an answer now and
not a debate answer that the system is broken. The question is what about right now ? There was no answer !!!!
SAntorum the only cancer and the only puppets are you and the other two goofballls!!! VOTE RON PAUL2012!!!
What is your opinion on Medical Marijuana?
Has anyone asked the question of all of the Canidates about repatriation of Offshore US dollars back to the US? Seems there are a couple of trillion dollars ABROAD. If the Fed would give those companies tax excempt status, Along with the requirement that 25% OF THOSE DOLLARS WOULD BE Escrowed into a CONTROLLED pot of money that could be used ONLY FOR DIRECT JOB CREATION by said companies. I cannot see any logical reason to not do it!!!
Charlie
Who will fight the present law so that retired veterans can collect both retiree pay as well as disability pay.
Please ask all of the candidates what they think of simplifying the tax code – not necessarily a "flat" tax but narrowing the range so that everyone pays closer to the same percentage share and their fair?
dr. paul calls people other then his crew family than curls up like a snail it makes me think everybody else that is differnt then him is evil.
Could you please ask the candidates about their stance for promoting basic science research and education?
No real answers AGAIN.
I think they all are so afraid the truth will come out that they say what they THINK we want to hear
B.S.
I think the real problem with our country's jobs and economy started when we became able to import massive amounts of products very efficiently from other countries where their cheap labor, poorer living standards, and fewer regulations allows us to afford wonderful technologies and living standards at the cost of millions of jobs and dollars going out of the country and not coming back. I would like the candidates to give their opinion and what they would do to fix the problem.
Please ask the candidates: Are you a friend of Israel?
Debate Question: Stanton College Preparatory School, located in Jacksonville, is rated 4th in the country according to Newseek magazine, what would you do to maintain or improve it and school's like it.
To all candidates, if you became president, would you reenact JFK's Executive Order to print money to pay off the federal reserve?
These candidates all claim that Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae were the culprits for the 2008 great recession, when in fact mortgage defaults were only responsible for 10% of the losses. 90% of the losses were in the credit default swaps that insured the mortgages against default, and these pseudo derivatives were made possible by deregulation of the derivatives market and financial equities deregulation (e.g. Glass Steagal repeal). In light of this, why do you support unbridled deregulation included the repeal of the Dodd-Frank regulations explicitly designed to prevent this type of wild abuse and gambling with other's funds?
please! people are desperate for work that pays realistic living wages, out here. pay them properly and they'll choose whats best for themselves. stop with all the controls, loss of freedom. when i had my job i worked 16 hours daily, my employer wanted us there 7-days aweek on the job. give us our freedom back. with a commute to work of 45 minutes up to 1-hour each way, thats plus 2 more hours a day. with only 8 hours off. maybe 10 at max.
driving a truck. can't really have a life doing this any more.
Santorum, You have made numerous references to our President being "marxist". Do you understand that most Americans want the disrespect and name calling to stop? Do you appreciate that if you get the presidential nomination of your party that only a few people will support you as president because of your grade school tactics and hate mongering. We are sick of the clannish and ethnocentricism and hypocrisy that has become the Republican party. Can you STOP long enough to honestly tell us why we should vote for you to represent ALL Americans?
In Obama's speech yesterday, he said that the United States is on the incline and anybody who says differently doesn't know what they are talking about. But wasn't it Obama who said a few months ago that America has gotten soft so what does that say about him?
Another very crucial problem right here in Jacksonville, as well as throughout the U.S. is the issue of shrinking military personnel and their force to leave the ranks. Please ask the GOP candidates if elected president, how would each handle foreign policy and the Iranian Nuclear Program, and what would they do to bring hope back to our forces both home and abroad?
What role would your religion play in your governance?
Kay Leal
I know what the Speaker thought of Paul Ryan's plan when his plan was disseminated, however, I would like to know if Newt has changed his position since that time, and what is it now?
Great question!! And would Paul Ryan be considered for position in your cabinet (Treasury Secretary?)
I think the people would like to know, as leader of the United States, what would you do to make congress more efficent?
Let's cut to the chase. 1/3 of the voters in Florida are senior citizens. Where is the question to each of these guys on whether or not they will cut Social Security & Medicare?
Mr. Gingrich wrote the forward for William Forstchens book One Second After. I was hoping that him or one of the other candidates would bring up the topic of a potential EMP attack on the United States and what they would do to prevent an attack? Or how they would implement a recover from an attack on the United States?
Do you believe that Islam is a religion of peace or a religion of war? (To Gov. Romney)
Ask the canidates: How will they reform or remove the lobist sytem in Washington.
No concrete answers from any of the candidates though i think Ron was a bit different from the other. The real winner was wolf blitzer for cornering
Mr. Romney, especially, and the other Republican candidates, this is the "Republican Debate", so please can you stick to debating among and about yourself's instead of constantly trying to debate a presidential debate who's not there? It's not a debate when you attack a candidate who is not present and can not respond. So, PLEASE, stick to debating the REPUBLICAN candidates right there on stage next to you.
Thank you.
Newt has been criticized for "sitting on a couch" with Nancy Pelosi. Please explain why trying to reach compromise with anyone is a terrible idea.
Lots of bashing, no solutions. This is a bunch of crap. Not ONE decent debate where actual solutions to the jobs problem are discussed. It just leads to what Obama hasn't done. What will THEY do? Oh -- my bad -- they won't even try. They will ride it out and do nothing. At least Obama is trying but the HELL NO CAUCUS has blocked what 75% of the country wants, poll after poll after poll,
most cubans you talk to are happy in their country which is free from capitalism and modern day slavery, so this talk about cuban people wanting freedom is a bunch of bologni
To all candidates: What do you plan to do about budget cuts in the military?
A question for all candidates,
Given the repeal of don't ask, don't tell in the military, do you believe that adultery should still be illegal in the military so long as the act does not interfere with good order and discipline?
If you are elected Presdent, how or would you use the experience of President Obama?
What are the candidates position on the military in terms of priority and draw downs?
Mitt Romney father was born in Mexico, but yet again hes criticizing the undocumented.
Do any of the candidates support 'collective bargaining'?
Only Ron Paul understand foreign policy
The US Congress are paid nice salaries even when they don't produce favorable results. Why is that right?
Newt just suggested the US starting a "Cuban Spring". He obviously doesn't understand how the "Arab Spring" got started.
Just who is he suggesting should self-immolate?!
Apologies. It should read "...to debate a presidential CANDIDATE who's not there?"
Yeah-yeah, Gingrich "the Savior". Has been "saving America" since 1970s till now. Saved it to its current state, did he?
Romney, "the job creator", "the leader".
Santorum, "the moral guide".
Obama, "the motivational speaker".
People, until you resolve to make decisions for yourselves, learn for yourself from difficult-to-read materials rather than tabloids and make your own conclusion about life choices (not leaders) you will always find saviors, leaders and moral paragons happy to save, lead, morally-guide and motivate you ... just to our current state and below. You are neglect the only candidate who does not talk down to you and appeals to your judgment .. and your "leaders", "saviors", "moral guides" and "motivational speakers" will laugh hard at you for that, no matter whom of them you will choose.
God bless Fidel Castro. Before he came into power the class division was atrocious and the island was run by the U.S. mafia. Cuba is very poor now, largely because of the embargo and the collapse of the Soviet Union, but Europeans still vacation there and the poor are much better off than they were under Bautista. Capitalism creates wealth for a few, but a country must think about ALL of its citizens. Hopefully someday we can overcome the greed that runs (ruins) the U.S.
Yes, ask all of them our overpopulation should be addressed. I'd like to hear that.
mitt is on his game tonite where newt is off
With so many Americans out of work when will the government stop the outsourcing to other countries and give Americans a better chance at employment?
Tort Reform: one of the biggest barriers to business and a major cost of health insurance are the questionable law suits pressed by our legal system, what if anything would our candidates propose regarding tort reform?
To all:
Why would you make the strongest opponent for President Obama? Who among your group would be second best, and why?
Why is Wolf asking such idiotic questions like, "Why would your wife make the best 1st Lady?" Seriously? We have 18% unemployment, trillions in debt and military deployed around the globe trying to deflect terrorism, for starters. What about "How would you do "X" differently than Obama?" So glad he's asking the tough questions! It's more than obvious that he represents a left-leaning organization and is merely asking questions that make the candidates look silly. Good for Gingrich for calling him out on it!
this is a circus..would make a bad reality show......Wolf has lost control
Is this a debate or the Newt vs Mitt Show? I feel sorry for Santorum and Paul. The direct bias of candidate importance is detrimental to the political system. Shame on you Wolf and CNN.
No concrete answers from any of the candidates though i think Ron was a bit different from the others. The real winner was wolf blitzer for cornering Newt till he got angry.For one thing aint voting for neither of this candidates from what i so tonight, Therefore my vote will go to obama.
Newt is not a national figure, and every time he speaks he is wearing thin.
I just figured out what it is about Romney that bothers me. It's this-he's just to well scripted and it's as if he has every answer memorized ahead of time–as opposed to being genuine in spontaneous answers. He did do well on Israel though.
Is this only a two man debate? CNN and all other news seems to have decided that they are going to get only them in the talks what about the other two? how can they win a debate when they are totally over looked???????/
My husband is also concerned about what each of the candidates would rank as the #1 problem that must be dealt with when the Republicans take control in 2012. He would like to know why superficial questions are being dealt with when there are so many pressing issues that should be discussed. Another question is why Social Security is called an "entitlement"? We have paid into social security all of our working lives, and it is not an entitlement. Welfare is an entitlement – something people feel they are entitled to because the government can give it to them. Please address this question. Thanks
Wolf, please remind Rick Santorem that Noriaga is no longer in power. And while you are at it, please remind Mitt Romney that Fidel Castro is no longer in power.
Ask the candidates: To insure the American people that they will fix the Social Security System problems, and the Health Care problems of America, would they be willing the make Congress and themselves have the same retirement (Social Security) and Health Care. Why should I have to work for 40 to 50 years in hopes of a very nominal retirement payment, when they can serve just a few years and retire on an income that I can't make working, and have health care that "We The People" pay for?????
With all the "mudslinging" going on it's hard to get the main facts about the candidates. So, in bullet form, what are the key political points that make you different than the man standing beside you and from the current president? And with these points, how might they make you a better president than what we have right now?
The only radical muslims in cuba were imported to guantanamo. Santorum must of read something that hasnt been made public.
In this split, polarized country with both sides claiming the other is going to "destroy this country with their policies" what specifically would you do to lead the 50 per cent of the country who disagrees with your party's policies? How would you reach across to the "other side" to build consensus?
If I were better at this computer, I would ask the politically incorrect question: Who among the candidates is a committed Christian? Who understands the importance of Isreal to America? Who is brave enough to say, "Yes! I'm for God!"
The idea of insurance is based on negating the effects of bad luck. Everyone buys insurance but not everyone needs to use it. Insurance shouldn't be for checkups and other minor issues. Rather it should be for the big ones. When one in the group gets cancer, everyone's payments support that person. I don't see how that works with individual savings accounts, where everyone is trying to cover all possible calamities by gigantic savings. It just won't work without pooling everyone's money together. When done correctly, everyone has a sense of security that they will be taken care of and doesn't begrudge those who need support. When people have less stress, they are healthier. Why on earth don't we have some sort of single payer system that covers these big expenses for the few? Of course, we must deal with the huge end of life expenses that now bankrupt the system.
Romneys last comment of never voting for anyone other than a Republican further exhibits the polarization and narrow minded attititudes to never seriously discuss or compromise on any issue! It's always my way or the highway!I can not believe that in his entire voting life that every candidate on the ballot that was best for Massachusetts or the USA was a Republican. Rediculous!!I was a member of the Republican party for 40 years until this new generation of political oppurtunist came to Washington.I feel so sorry for the future of this nation.
The picture of them saying the pledge of allegiance cracks me up. Santorum looks like a goober, if Newt were to lay in a coffin like he's looks in this picture you would think him a corpse, Romney is bored with this allegiance business, and Paul needs a tailor cause his pants are too long (he also is looking at Romney's butt, so maybe the Borat thing affected him profoundly). This is not a picture containing the next POTUS. Sorry kids.
Please include Santorum and Ron Paul on ALL questions. I am more interested in their responses than Gingrich and Romney's. Thanks.
to all candidates
how come nobody is investigating the humane society of u.s.they are on the fbi's terrorist watch list.they are trying to destroy america's agriculture!!and are also implimented in two rico cases at the present time.
Santorum its nice that you feel that way about Puerto Ricans facing unemployment what about the unemployment rate of African Americans?
to No One Important: Glad someone else noticed that!! I was wondering myself why he will not accept responsibility for any of his own actions or endorsements.
I severely fear that republicans would not have same level of understanding and enthusiasm to invest and promote scientific and technological ideas as democrats do. They appear to lack insight and appear to throw poorly worded and meagerly understood ideas and cheap remarks.
Ground/top/middle approach to healthcare: quantify the cost of covering the uninsured. Use an annual Dutch auction to offer "golden tickets" to health care access as an offset. Spread the remainder over the currently insured. Loosen FDA rules to allow global competition for prescription drugs. Using competitive bidding on the top end provides excess revenue to mitigate the inevitable loss on the bottom end. Let's start defining these upper and lower bounds.
Since politicians could not agree to cut spending to reduce US debt, can they at least put a statement on federal tax forms to voluntarily send 10% of the tax amount to go towards National debt instead of asking "would you like $1 to go towards presidential election fund?." National debut could be zero in 20 years without these self-serving politicians.
I am neither a Democrat nor a Republican and come election time my vote as well as others who do not align themselves with a specific party will count. One thing that would help boost our economy would be to bring jobs back to the United States. Last night during the State of the Union, President Obama said we should give tax breaks to companies who keep jobs in the United States. I noticed the Republicans did not embrace this idea, please explain why you disagree with this proposal and how would you bring jobs back to the United States?
Do the candidates beleive that person who commits adultery (multiple times) has the morale standards to be POTUS?
I thought our nation was founded on the separation of church and state. Silly me!
America is one of the top country that is facing obesity. As president what are some ways to bringing america back to a healthier america?
Santorum don't know why the free trade whit Colombia took so long, when is the number 1 country around the world whit more violent deads on Union leaders. So you want to make bussines where is no respect for human rights and Unions....
religious beliefs should not have anything to do with a public position
Israel definately now the Palestinean Republic just figutred ut he is in the wrong party.
When 300 house rep memebers run ofto Israel to bow and swear alligence to the Israel flag.
The Palestinean people dontt stand a chance
Romney is wrong. There are no Judeo-Christian values. Judaism has one set of values. Christianity has a different set of values. How do people keep screwing this up? Judaism and Christianity may have similar values on some subjects, but there are not enough to blend them together.
Will you as a President return Prayer in the schools?l
As a Federal Employee, I see workers that are not performing keep jobs they cannot handle. The Union moves these workers from one area to another, instead of cutting them loose. The rules and regulations are so out dated and do not allow supervisors the power to make employees get the job done or get out. How would you handle this issue as President?
What is your opinion on the newly introduced S.O.P.A and P.I.P.A bills?
To: Romney, Santorum and Gingrich, would you govern this nation between the boundaries of the US Constitution as Dr. Ron Paul has been doing so in past years?
Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
America is NOT based on religion.
A question on the candidates stand on immigration – Senator Santorum said his grandfather came to this country legally and that is the right thing to do. I fully support the principle he outlined. However, today, the choice of legal vs "illegal" has a different perspective – for example, a person from Mexico would have to wait in line anywhere from 6 years to 16 years to get a green card (per the bulletin from the US Department of State) – would you agree that this situation is different and if so, what would you do as President?
I have heard that many polls that even a car salesman could beat Obama in the next election. Because of all the debates, we have been given an opportunity to get to know the candidates this time around., I truly believe than ANY of these candidates would outdo a car salesman. God Bless America, and hopefully make Obama a 1 term President.
Kudo's to Santorum. He just hit the faith based question out of the park! Yahoo!
please america do not buy into romney,gingrich,santorums' lies , RON PAUL is supported by not only 80% of our military but also most of foreign nations
TO all the candidates; We heard President Obama talk about funding for education in his State of the Union address... what are your views on education? How will you improve the public schools? Will you increase funding? – Worried Student
I would like to ask the candidates their view on global warming. The runaway train has already left the station on this issue.. I am worried about my children and future grandchildren's quality of life. Instead I am hearing a line of questioning that includes "Whose wife would be best in the white house." CNN this is disappointing I expected more Newt is right when he showed disgust with W. Blitzer .
Question for candidates,
Where do you stand on men's rights and child support? In the SC debate abortion was addressed, I would like to know how you feel about the fact that a man can not make a woman have an abortion and sometimes a woman gets pregnant and does not tell the man and years later files for child support. A woman can visually see a man wearing birth control but a man can only take the woman's word for it. Why are men being punished for child support and being thrown in jail for child support when they have no rights to make decisions regarding the pregnancy. Also, do you feel it is right to say to a woman that was raped, that she can not have an abortion
I agree with Natalie in Ohio, here in Florida it is painfully evident in the unemployment rate.
Job creation is the only answer for blacks and whites.
Let us get back to work!
Do you support the minimum wage, and if so, by rights, having everyone in congress live off minimum wage for at least two months?
Rick Santorum, if you were elected president and you had to choose one republican nominee which would it be? Why?
Mr Romney; You talk about how you can create jobs better than Obama.. but given that the last republican president cost this country 46,000 manufacturing companies and millions of jobs, How can you explain how you are going to create these millions of jobs back since the tax breaks to the wealthy didn't create them for Bush?
Taxes and the difference between what the rich and middle class pay has finally been brought to light and has become an issue. It is obvious that the current tax code is unfairly lop-sided. As president, would you evaluate and consider scrapping the current tax code in favor of a fairer code based on a flat tax system or sales based system, with no exceptions or shelters. I would like to hear the response from each candidate.
How about giving equal time to each candidates Instead of just acting like there is only 3 RON PAUL WILL GET VOTES NO MATTER HOW MUCH YOU IGNORE HIM RON PAUL 2012
wolf...ask for DETAILS regarding JOBS. NO ON3 HAS STATED THEIR PLAN..OR EVEN IF THEY HAVE ONE
With the way things are today and the economy, what would each of you do to protect Veterans and Disabled Veterans Benefits?
Rick Santorum, if you were elected president and you had to choose one republican nominee which would it be? Why?
Thanks.
@UndecidedinVA: they haven't had a chance too discuss anything of such substance because Wolf keeps asking silly questions. Doesn't he noticed the automatic boos from the audience when he asks and pursues ridiculous lines of questioning? Why isn't someone talking in his ear to say: "Wolf – the people are getting restless – maybe you should ask a relevant question!"
The more I listen to Romney, the more, I believe, he never loves America. Looks like this guy will anything just to get people's vote. I fear him a lot!!!
Romney... It is IN alienable rights... NOT UN alienable
Dear Republicans, Marco Rubio does not speak on behalf of ALL Cubans in Florida. I was born in Cuba and immigrated to this country AFTER Castro took over. The embargo hasn't worked, what makes anyone think that it will suddenly work now? Miami Cubans are not the only Cubans in Florida. I am from Orlando and I will make my vote count. I am a proud Obama supporter and can't wait for the president to debate these clowns.
@Larry – well they voted Clinton into 2 terms!
God-given rights outweigh the government? Clearly God takes second place then – I don't see Him intervening when the government manipulates said rights.......
How do the Four Stooges feel about the Food Safety Modernization Act? Is it too much of a burden on businesses for them? And if they support it, then why hasn't the FDA been given the funds necessary to hire the 17000 inspectors needed to make sure that it's enforced?
As an active duty veteran preparing to get out of a military that is downsizing and laying off DOD civilians daily, I am worried about stepping into a jobless life where I see the struggles and jobs disappearing even on a military bases why are politicians claiming that jobs are coming back when many veterans I know are unemployed. I really want to know how downsizing our military and getting rid of necessary civilian military jobs seems to be set. How would you handle a threat from countries that only wish our destruction without keeping our military at least at it's current strength and trained? The military works better with our civilian counterparts and many positions that a veteran would or cold have stepped into after service simply are not there. What would you do with our military strength and numbers if you were to be elected President?
Santorum...great response that the state does not grant rights, it is God, whatever that means. It is certainly not the state that grants rights. That is why OWS exists. It is democracy in action. We agree, but the details separate us.
Question for the candidates and CNN,
Why is all the publicity directed toward Gingrich, Romney and Santorum? No one ever says anything about Ron Paul. Is i because he is right and the other candidates can not argue with him? And CNN do you not speak of Ron Paul because he is not wealthy? I believe this to be discrimination against Ron Paul! The states should be voting on the best candidate, not the candidate(s) creating the drama!
Romney gave lot of ammunition to Obama campaign
You GO Don Ft Pierce!
This comment needs repeating, please ask the candidates this!!!!!! In the last 40 years I have worked, I have never (did I say it loud enough? – NEVER!) had a job with a pension to earn, not offered in any business in the private (not factory worker, professional) sector. WHY DOES OUR GOVERNMENT STILL PAY FOR PENSIONS????? All my employers offered was a 401K option, NO PENSION! Get with the times!
Newt, Early in the race, you were for repealing "Entitlement Payments". Will you repeal Congressional Pensions for Congress representatives?
Clarify "endowed by their creator" and the RIGHTS of gay Americans and their pursuit of happiness. Remember, if it helps, that some homosexuals are also Christians.PLEASE ASK!!!
Romney.... It is IN alienable rights... NOT UN alienable.....
You GO Don Ft Pierce!
This comment needs repeating, please ask the candidates this!!!!!! In the last 40 years I have worked, I have never (did I say it loud enough? – NEVER!) had a job with a pension to earn, not offered in any business in the private (not factory worker, professional) sector. WHY DOES OUR GOVERNMENT STILL PAY FOR PENSIONS????? All my employers offered was a 401K option, NO PENSION! Get with the times!
Faith?! An issue? A requirement for the presidency? This crew is a bunch of dissembling ciphers. How does Obama lose? Can't see it. Game over. Ron Paul is the only guy who brings anything to the discussion. And, he ain't goona be the guy. Adios.
Dear Republicans, Marco Rubio does not speak on behalf of ALL Cubans in Florida. I was born in Cuba and immigrated to this country AFTER Castro took over. The embargo has not worked, what makes anyone think that it will work now? The ones hurting are those on the island. Miami Cubans are not the only Cubans in Florida. I am a proud Obama supporter and will make my vote count.
Mitt has won tonights debate.
How would you bring God back into our Schools and Government? With all the issues our children are having in their lives with peers and teachers. We need to go back to the basics.
Bring Jon Huntsman back! LOL
Seriously GOP, Tea party, social conservatives, evangelicals....none of these candidates will get the solid GOP support AND moderates and independent votes to beat the BHO billion-dollar election machine.
Do the candidates support the continued expatriation of U.S. industry to foreign 'labor rich' lands and do they favor rewarding companies that move factories overseas.
Long live the US Constitution! Ron Paul is who we need as president to keep our civil liberties alive.
Seriously? Blitzer isn't going to ask Newt about his "mistake" saying several of his friends were offered to ABC to dispute the "Open Marriage" claim? It goes to his credibility. If he doesn't ask he might as well leave and let the candidates moderate their own debate.
Regarding the debate questions about Israel and Palestine, Jewish people do exist all over the world. Modern "Israeli" nationals were made up when European and American politics intervened and created the modern nation of Israel.
It didn't exist before that. So, if Palestinians are "made up", then so are "Israeli's".
Some say that to be Jewish is to be Israeli. Not true. "Israeli" is a citizen of modern Israel.
"Jewish" is a religion.
Many Americans like to think that the nation of Israel is this benign, friendly to the USA nation. Yet, Israeli spies continue to spy in the US about what the US is doing, and then tries to dismiss the spying by saying that since the US and Israel are such friends and allies, it's not really spying. Ok. Spin it how you like. But, if you're not invited to have certain information, then obtaining state information illegally is called "spying".
To all the candidates: Would you – not be willing to but actually stop – foreign aid to country's who are not our allies?
What kind of questions are people asking. Will your wife make a good first lady? Really. Skip past the job question. Why are u willing to help foreign countries? They hate us. They have stricter immigration and laws then we do. Talk about the homeless problem in America. Y is no one telling me America and its people come first. The rich get richer. Middle class stay in a whole and some end on street. I see people that make $35-40 thousand dollars a year have to pay rent transportation to get to work and tax return is horrible. They are either paying or getting less that $500 back. That's fair? These people make to much? I see spending by the entertainment and big business people and they seem to make and continue to make profits and get breaks. Does anyone consider what some of that money we spend on foreign countries can help americans. Since we are so unorganized at home, deeper funds should be made for housing homeless and other less fortunate groups and find job placement. I hate to add this but I ave a four year degree got stricken with a medical condition, stuck paying school loans working at a fast food place. I'm currently looking overseas to work. Can't even use my education effectively. Only way I could afford a house was because of the first time home owners program which I still probably be in a roach apartment. What are you gonna do for people like me. I live in Florida where education here is poor that's probably y they keep voting republican, just " the good ol boys state" , but it's really time for someone to step up and answer some issue questions on this debate. And it's sad to see these candidates jabbing each other then two facing when hey leave or have lost. All these guys say are speculations I don't care about your resume. What you gonna do? Shouldn't be concerned about beating Obama. You can't work together now, pretty evident you can't work together. Another hot air debate. I'll vote for Obama this year. This is a circus!
Mr. Gingrich drops Reagan's name every two minutes, but forgets how many times he has criticized him in the past. And I wish he would stop bringing up Saul Alinsky...it's getting old.
What would you do as President help employee the Black race of people since the highest unemployement is of the Black Race? Santorum stated "that he would not take money from someone else and give it to Black people." What would he do to employe the black race?
Reganomics success happened in conditions of EXTREME income growth. To vote for reganomics now is to ask for bread without butter. Molding bread if that.
santorum said previous two speakers?? ignoring Ron paul?? really? geeez these guys and CNN are so bought out and it is so obvious
Newt is down right awful! and I'm not saying that because I would vote for him because I will not, however having no gog in this fight I am telling you he is down right awful in all respects!
Mitt, what is wrong with Europe? They now have greater social mobility (the American dream) than in America. They have universal health care at far less cost than the fraction of Americans covered by insurance. It seems we have something to learn from Europe, rather than mythologizing past realities.
I was absolutely disgusted with the answers given to the Palestinian American. Yes, Israel has a right to defend itself, but one should look at the History of the Israel state and see how it was formed. Then, one will truly understand the genocide they have inflicted on the Palestinian people, both Islamic and Christian. During the 1940s, Israel destroyed entire communities, driving out men, women, and children. Read your history. Look at the documents written by the leaders of Israel at the time. They wanted and still want to remove every Palestinian from their land. As a Catholic priest, I felt such oppression in Israel and to observe how they treated the Palestinians was absolutely immoral. One cannot remove the rights of so many based on the radical ideologies of some.
Mr. Gingrich, so by what you just said, your religious beliefs are that it is perfectly acceptable to divorce your first 2 wives & then marry the woman who helped you cheat on on your second wife...Sorry that just doesn't sound like the type of man I want running the country.
the only one who can beat Obama is Ron Paul!
I can't belive Wolf missed this: Geeeze so obviously challenge;
Santorum is saying that those who have no insurance are allowed to go to hospitals to get their care... FREE OF CHARGE... no insurance, no problem!!!! What do you think the illegal immigrants will do.
Santorum denies the climate is changing. He doesn't like science, does he? We are showing signs all the time. Higher tempatures put more water in the air which results in more pericipation like rain and snow. The tempatures and other weather formations are changing more radically than ever.
RON PAUL
Now that the major exchanges have gone public, and their shareholders' success relies on fees generated by high frequency trading, will there ever be a fair playing field again, for the average investor?
I am an active-duty service member with a college degree, 8 years in the military, and multiple deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism. My political views are moderate and I cherish traditional American values. I haven't yet decided whether I will get out after 10 years of honorable service and transition to corporate America, or retire after 20 or however many years are required. In light of DoD/military cutbacks and discussions about changing military pension/retirement & benefits, what would you say to a still-undecided voter like myself?
I think mitt won possibly, but newt did not!
WHO WON THE JACKSONVILLE DEBATE?
GINGRICH 20.9% (3,738 votes)
PAUL 34.62% (6,191 votes)
ROMNEY 30.59% (5,471 votes)
SANTORUM 13.89% (2,485 votes)
Total Votes: 17,885
Mitt just jumped off the debate stage. He is in great shape. I would pay to see Newt do that.
Great night for Mitt.
Highly disappointed in how biased the moderator was in fielding questions to Romney and Gingrich. We need to see more Santorum and Paul. This is kind of a big deal, CNN. Be fair about it.
Watch CNN ignore Ron Paul. We have a pool going that CNN won't mention his name more then 4 times in the post debate.
Conclusion: "I agree with congress man Paul" .... if only you could have come up with it yourselves or had voted accordingly on the past.
finally it's over
OH my goodness, Did Romney just cut an interview with Gloria Barger off and storm off?
2nd post
I think they can all beat obama hands down. after all he has not been a leader and amased a debt we will take years to get over. Do I have a choice, not really but who ever rises to the top of the pack I am going to support with my pocket book as well as my voice.Also with blogs on the internet. We just can't afford obama any longer. He has failed big time.
I think ultimately, Romney and Gingrich will flame and tire each one out and.....Santorum will get his message out and win GOP voters.
I can't wait to see Mitt debate Obama. That is the last thing in the world Obama wants.
The moderator(Mr. Blitzer) is perhaps the weakest moderator I've yet seen. The questions lacked substance and were long on he-said/he-said home-room tit-for-tat caliber questions. Santorum is the one true conservative candidate. Paul reminds me of my Uncle Dub...I know he loves his country, but he's got no executive prowess at all. Seems more like a guy on a bus who doesn't understand why you need any other flavor besides tapioca.
Why did Wolf skip over Ron Paul on the Palestinian-Israeli question? CNN should be ashamed for trying to manufacture public opinion.
Good job Wolf of preventing any compairson between Obama and these candidates. The left wing media refuses to ask one question about the pipeline and the 20,000+ jobs Obama cost us.
What do the candidates think of the current administration in the White House who were appointed by one who may be declared ineligible to be on a Presidential ballot, but holds that high office?
I hope these guys don't use their religious beliefs to change the pursuit of happiness (thanks Mitt) (in the Constitution) If gays want to get married and makes them happy, then leave them alone. Unfortunately Obama won't financially leave the people alone and you think Reps. will leave us alone for other reasons?
Newt tends to be more optimistic than the others. That tactic worked well for Reagan. Santorum was the least optimistic, being a realist about what needs be done. That doesn't play well with voters, who prefer "feeling good" about the future. Romney has learned how to rebut Newt but not endear himself to the masses. Paul, well I like Paul on foreign policy but not social policy. Why must we be the Christ crucifying empire that invites aggression against us? Reasonable defense is reasonable defense, not the hegemony and wasteful spending we have now.
I quite agree FEdthe. Always, every news channel, geared towards republicans or democrats, love to IGNORE Ron Paul. His fellow prospective candidates alike because what can they say? He is more often than not very correct and admirable. BOOOOO! Boo to everyone who thinks they won't vote for Ron Paul because they think he can't win. THE MEDIA MAKES YOU THINK THAT BY IGNORING HIM AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE. If everyone thinks that way, he won't. If everyone realizes maybe their vote counts and they should be genuine in their vote regardless of what they think the odds are and look at the facts, there's a very great chance. Isn't this a democracy where votes are supposed to count, after all? Put your votes where they count FOR YOU. Not what the media tells you!!
I just listen to the debate and the last question really dissapointed me. Mr. Wolf Blitzer wanted to know why they could beat Barak Obama, not President Barak Obama. But he then said Mr. Speake Gengrich or Governor Romney, I am not a democrat, but I think we could use more respect for our President. For or against it, respect is missing in this Country and yes I am a proud Naturalized Citizen!
Romney might have just sealed his victory.
Paul had some good points.
Newt looked tired and frankly a little crazy. (Government funded moon colony?)
Santorum was uninspiring.
Mitt answered Glorias questions then left to shake hundreds of hands. As a Newt supporter you should have seen that.
Guess what CNN. OBAMA cannot RUN FOR PRESIDENT in GEORGIA!!!!
Do you care to make this national news? Not yet, huh? It won't stay quiet long. I think I'll ask FOX to break the story first.
By the way, this is the FIRST of MANY STATES that will REMOVE HIM FROM THE BALLOT.
P.S. Call us tinfoil heads but a FRAUDULENT BIRTH CERTIFICATE HE REPRESENTS ON THE WHITEHOUSE.GOV WEB SITE IS SO BLATANTLY OBVIOUS, COUPLED WITH HIS FRAUDULENT SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER, you can't stop WE THE PEOPLE from taking back our Great Nation. Remember he posted this POST 2008 – April, 2011. THE FRAUD WAS ENACTED PRE 2012 ELECTION so he WILL BE OUT....SOON IMPEACHED, WE CAN ONLY HOPE and PRAY.
Rick Santorum has to just quit. You were born to early to act as if having SEVEN KIDS is a good thing. We no longer work on farms, Rick, so there is no need to create workers. People want to talk about the environment. The worst thing for the environment is more cow eating, air polluting people. You are way too emotional to run against Barack Obama and you will not be the candidate. I suppose you feel you got Ron Paul back after he embarrassed you last week. The difference is, Ron Paul didn't set out to embarrass you. Just go back to Pennsylvania, please.
There were some very poor choices of questions posed to the candidates tonight. Wish the host would stick to the real issues pertaining to the people of America rather than fostering mud slinging. I think this degraded the venue more than it did the candidates and doesn't encourage viewers to stay tuned. Even the candidates spoke up against it. Wish they would have all walked off in protest.
As a palestinian-american, i must say, thw answer that was given by both the candidates was disgusting and hurtful. i stand fully with having Israel as a neighbor to Palestine, but a conflict is not a one way street. it is the fault of both parites. the palestinians and the israelis. yes, having rockets flying into Israel is wrong and no way to get to peace, but my question is, why did the candidates not attack the Israelis buliding of settlements? the palestinian territory grows smaller evry year from these buildings and they trully are another tactic of ethnic cleansing. if that is how the republican candidates feel about the Palestinian-Israeli conflict......... God help us because I believe I will never see the home of grandfather because the palestinian home will be demolished and the people massacred. i stand fully with israel as a state, and even with the rude, and frankly, ignorant comments of romney and gingrich, i still stand by israel because i believe in this peace and will not let my anger and frustration of their answers allow me to sink to their levels of hatred for the palestinians by lashing out at israel. this country, with all our talk of justice, should not be lead by two such hypocrites who clearly do not believe in justice for all. Shame on you both.
the only candidate who clearly has the Citizen's and Country's long term interest is Ron Paul.
Throughout the debate Santorum and Gingrich kept agreeing with Romney's positions and statements! Why do we need Gingrich or Santorum? we don't since they continued to endorse Mitt Romney! Thank You!
I don't understand how the post debate commentators can state that Romney had a strong night. I found his attacks to be bullying and negative...and falsely based as usual. Am I the only one that hears a potential future president claiming the 5th on his negative attack ads, his former statements, and so forth. How will that play out as a president? What will he actually know, and won't he? I shudder to think about it. The description that Gingrich was "flat" in this evening's debate is incomprehendable to me. Newt Gingrich was the MOST presidential this evening, requesting that a truce be called (ie stop the war of words). I certainly cannot see Mitt Romney debating Obama because it will end with Mitt Romney taking his marbles and going home because he doesn't want to play the game anymore. As far as Romney's new debate coach benefiting him? I don't see it. Just my 2 cents worth.
GOOD DEBATE... I believe the debate showed itself very clear. Newt Gingrich President, Rick Santorum Vice President, Ron Paul put in a position to go through the constitution and every amendment that has perversed and distorted our constitution be reversed and spend four years cleaning up the constitution so that what our forefather's invisioned for this country be recognizeable again and send Mitt Romney back to the private sector to make his millions and let him bail Capitalism Out for us.
Newt is a spin, can't put behind me the years of trash he has been spewing and I'm supposed to believe he's a reformed man wake up. Romney is a snake. Sanatorum is trying. Losers try. Ron Paul is a stud he does give you some answers I like what I heard unfortunately they give him no shine.
What's going on with CNN? Are we not allowed to have our own thoughts? Rick Santorum has to go home already. You weren't even re-elected in your own state as Senator. And having seven children is not a good thing. We no longer need to procreate so that we have enough people to work on farms. People are the biggest problem for the environment so please think about that for a minute.
Mitt is the clear front runner but Santorum was really impressive. Newt better be careful, Santorium could take a bunch of his support. Ron Paul may make a good Surgeon General.
Good Debate.. I believe the debate showed itself very clear. Newt Gingrich President, Rick Santorum Vice President, Ron Paul put in a position to go through the constitution and every amendment that has perversed and distorted our constitution be reversed and spend four years cleaning up the constitution so that what our forefather's invisioned for this country be recognizeable again and send Mitt Romney back to the private sector to make his millions and let him bail Capitalism Out for us.
I would like to get an understanding of how the Republican candidates would approach the tremendous amount of "giveaways" we provide to so many people that are capable of working but are just too lazy to do anything. I feel this must be eliminated except for people with true scenarios where they need the help and not "just unemployed" - some will be in that status their entire life.
Under Santorum everyone gets free health care!!!! No??? well he said it was wrong to charge people for health services if you do not have health insurance... Obviously FREE HEALTH CARE FOR EVERYONE
Thats a pretty ignorant comment, that's what your basing a president off of. Papers. Its been almost four open your eyes and look around " goo ol boy" why this country don't stick together in the first place.
I have not been looking at Ron Paul....I am now. Please when you recap include him on how the debates went. All media seems to just dismiss him.
we can't have Jefferson or Adams for President, but we can have Newt! When Romney suggested a historical event in
history, Newt said he was there and part of it. His experience blows away all of the other candidates. He won tonight.
The republicans would do best to draft Jeb Bush at the convention in Tampa. Additionally someone needs explain to me why when we protect Kuwait and in effect Saudi Arabia against an Iraqi attack and then spend American dollars to rebuild Arabian infrastructure; why doesn't our country get price breaks on Arab oil or even free oil to reimburse our expenses
I am not sure how I feel about the Palestinian comments by the candidates. Why didn't they ask Ron Paul what he thought? Maybe because they know that the person who asked the question would have liked his answer. I honestly don't feel that Israel needs our help the way that politicians would have us think that they do. They have also committed acts of terrorism against Palestine. Isn't it time for us to stop taking sides and let them fight their own battles?
Listening to the talking heads go on about who won and who lost. Not sure I agree with them. They are all up on Romney and down on Gringrich. Romney did a very good job making himself look like a spoiled rich kid who is being denied his prize. Gingrich held is own and unlike the other candidates had to do so against the other candidates and Wolf. I thought Wolf was out to correct the wrongs of John King. Here is a hint Wolf...you should never become part of the debate. The gotcha stuff was demeaning...even for you. Santorum had the best night of his candidacy and should be rewarded in the polls. Ron Paul should just go away.
Mitt Romney won this debate. It's interesting how the commentators totally jumped on the Santorum bandwagon. He did pretty well too, but Mitt was far and above the best tonight (and has been throughout, actually).
Wolf Blitzer distinguished himself as one of the worse moderators in history. Stupid, personal questions!
Fantastic debate tonight! Wolf Blitzer's performance was the best in every other televised Republican primary debate this year. I don't believe it is humanly possible to moderate a debate in a more fair or professional manner. The real winner in tonight's debate was the listening audience who , thanks to Mr. Blitzer, had a unique opportunity to observe all the candidates fairly and equally. Thanks CNN!
Travis Ogle
Pensacola, FL
I hope CNN learns from these debates to focus their questions on content and policy, not on headlines. When they focus on headlines, they ask questions that force them to argue and bicker. That is not a debate for President of the United States, that belongs in places like American Idol or The Kardashians. I know CNN is trying to get these viewers but leave that for your TV shows, not for a debate for the Presidency. Hopefully by the time we get to the general election, CNN and other "news" agencies will learn this and moderate debates that live up to the office of the President of the United States.
The Conservative attack machine has it's scope on Newt, they know he can not beat Obama and they want to stop Newt from being the GOP candidate....so I say.....GO NEWT GO!!! So you can lose to Obama.
Gingrich DID say that Spanish was the language of the ghetto, CNN. Why is everyone saying he wasn't referring to Spanish in particular. That's what his conversation was about – immersion or some such nonsense.
What was up with the question about their wives being first lady? Was Hillary asked that question in a debate with Obama because I honestly think Bill would have made a better first lady that Michelle. What does that have to do with the candidates being a good president? Ridiculous.
When I finally started hearing a good discussion between Rick Santorum and Mitt Romney about Romney’s Government healthcare in Massachusetts, Mr. Blitzer hurried the discussion along as if it had dragged on. And now I’m hearing about the candidate’s view on the quality of their wives being the first lady?
Mitt is highly coached and it’s probable that he doesn’t believe anything he says. I wish we could morph Ron Paul, Newt Ginrich, and yes…Rick Santorum into a super conservative. I hope we can fix ourselves.
Republican attack dogs all over Newt tonight. I hope the people speak up next week and put the dogs out on their ears.
I’m an Independent voter (Disabled Veteran); once Republican and seriously considering becoming a Democrat. It would be very refreshing to see the candidates be required to complete a group project or something; our brothers and sisters are really struggling and these Presidential candidates chose to debate about Swiss bank accounts. I watched the debate to hopefully identify Presidential qualities in each candidate but, Newt and Mitt were throwing bombs, Ron was whistling Dixie and Rick showed the world that he has the gift of the gab (without substance). From the looks of things, it may be in the best interest of the United States of America to let President Obama remain President without being re-elected. Why isn’t Colon Powell running?
Well after tonite I will not follow Fox News who is in the tank for Romney.To say Romney was strong in this debate was a huge stretch and his attack on Gingrich is becoming a yawn. Santorum really was the hammer in this debate. I am fed up with Fox News constantly promoting Romney and the old school Republicans hammering on Gingrich is laughable! I have gone from anyone but Obama to anyone with common sense and Fox News, Britt Hume and the gang promoting Romney as the only possible candidate is sad coomentary to fair and balanced.
It is great to have the news media behind you as the the inevitable candidate. Then just start trashing your fellow Republican leader in Iowa and let the media attack your victim for for defending himself and charachterize him as the instigator. A vote for Romney is a vote for the status quo. Is it any wonder why things never change. The long knives are out for Gingrich, by the establishment. It is a clue.
Ron Paul was funny and should have had a sweater on.....Please dont decide for us who should be running....but give us facts about what they are talking about and how their plans would work.
This debate was one of the sorriest excuses for a conversation between adults in the history of the United States.
Pundits are saying Romney did good job today really
He didn’t know where he invested his money ok he super rich we accept that
He didn’t know that his ad ok we agree he is super rich he can buy millions of ad
So we are saying he is so super rich we don’t want him
Why does Ron Paul want the U.S.A. to sit on its thumbs when our enemies impose and influence South American Nations? The U.S.A. should do all it can to counter those hostile influences.
What a classical CNN Gotcha on Newt. Payback time for attacking John King?
Roamney's been running attack ads and calling Newt all sorts of things for weeks and now ,Newt has to explain why he is running his ads. CNN knows how to manipulate the outcome with their questions...shame on you .You are so transparent. Isn't this a debate for the Presidential race or a new soap opera?
I don't live in the US , but you have messed all our lives up with your failure to be able to covern and use plain common sense. I think Dr Paul has the only common sense on that stage tonight ...too bad he is not young enough to be in the running.
MaPenn
The only sensible choice for President is Ron Paul.
Romney spun the financial issue... Romney if you promise me, who earns only 45k a year but pays twice as much as you in taxes, will get your tax rate, you have my vote
Come on CNN, I watched your debate, could you ignore Ron Paul any more? Even after the debate his name wasn't mentioned once and your so called "experts" are already pretending he doesn't exist. They need his delegates, he's not going away, he's only getting stronger. Pretty obvious who owns you and controls what you say and where you focus the most attention.
We do realize that Romney's religion only changed it views on black people in 1978. Until then, it was considered a sin to be black in the Mormon Religion. Mitt Romney was an ADULT in 1978. and being groomed for politics by the Mormon faith. Just a coincidence I guess.
Wow, Romney is the biggest liar in the world!!!
Romney's tax record is a great example on how America should be – low on taxes (mandated contributions), but high on charitable donations (voluntary contributions). Although he is taxed at 15% (which is the highest that taxes should be for anyone), he has donated over 15% of his earnings (far greater than Obama, Newt, or anybody else). He should make that a centerpiece of the campaign cycle and upcoming debates.
Romney tries to avoid saying an Ad was his...then when confronted says, I don't know, did you say that? Romney ends each Ad with I approve this Ad == why would he be asking if it is his or if it is true? Didn't he approve it? NEWT should stop answering his stupid questions and turned and said did you or did you not approve it?
Willard Mitt says he he is proud of the jobs he created? First Willard Mitt complains people blame him for jobs losses after he left Bain == now he wants credit for jobs created after he had left. Guess he wants his cake and to eat it to.
david callahan – to answer your question, all you have to do is look at the signs at the Tea Party rallies. such disrespect for this current president.
From outside the US these debates sound more like bickering then a discussion of the problems facing the USA. We will get nowhere with any of these people leading us.
Why is Donna Brazile (Democrat strategist) allowed to participate after the debates? All she does is berate the Republican candidates and push for Obama. Totally worthless.
It really upsets me that the media looks as Ron Paul as an after thought and not a serious contender in this election process. I am so fed up with the other 3 candidates and when you listen to Ron Paul he just makes sense. I am making my vote loud and clear that I am voting for Ron Paul.
Way to go, Romney!
newt can't hold a candle to you.
Erick Erickson tweeted that you got the better of Gingrich so Gingrich is probably locked out of a FL win.
Once again, this just shows how much better of a leader Ron Paul would make – especially with our financial system. However, he still remains elusive.
Ron Paul can relate: He isn't out of this world with his earnings. He doesn't lobby. He spells the problem out for everyone and a way to fix it. He's more peaceful in terms of war and more respectful as a person.
The way he remains elusive just shows how stupid america is. The people are the problem.