Hi AIT-
You're usually objective; however, in this case I have to point out that the “slams” and “nasty” “ad hominem” attacks have been from both sides and I have noted that on more than this thread.
For instance, one poster who posts things favorable to Newt and detrimental to Rick apparently lives in France and was repeatedly “slammed” just for living in there; (called “Frenchie,” and other disparaging remarks that had NOTHING to do w/this election or w/Rick's or Newts positions); yet, I can't recall anyone “calling you out” just because you live in Tokyo (which is as it should be; as where you live has nothing to do w/either your right to express; or, the validity of your political opinions).
I'm not picking on you; as I don't think you have done that type of vicious posting; but, there are several on both side that do that; and, there is one poster who posts on virtually every Newt thread a series of mean, “snarky” comments; but, NEVER posts anything that is meaningful, useful or constructive. (There are probably some who do this from Newt's side as well.)
That said; what I am hearing recounted on FOX and NBC this morning indicates they watched an entirely different debate than I did. The media narrative is that Romney won, Rick “missed the mark;” Newt didn't say much; and, Paul made relevant comments which pointed out Rick's shortcoomings as a conservative.
What I saw was Romney came across as his usual mendacious faux conservative self w/an extra measure of meanness thrown in for good measure; Rick had a good debate and certainly didn't lose any ground to Romney; Newt had a very good night and was the only one who was effective at turning the “trick questions” back against the media and Obama; and Ron Paul was his usual loony self w/a little extra effort in his attempts to "tagteam" w/Mitt against Rick.
I had noticed the collusion between Mitt and Paul several weeks ago and had speculated w/friends (not on FR) that there might be some sort of “deal” between Romney and Dr Paul to have Rand Paul selected as VeeP if Romney wins the nomination; so, I don't consider Rick's speculation to be unfounded; although, I am not sure it was wise of him to voice that opinion; as that sort of criticism is best left to surrogates.
Full disclosure: For those who are not aware, I started out supporting Cain and stayed w/him until he suspended his campaign. I have been w/Newt since that time; but, have stated (except for one emotional “rant”) that I will vote for Rick if he wins the nomination; which I remain committed to. I would only vote for Romney if I was convinced my vote was desperately needed to stop Obama ...and I'm still not convinced I can do that even then!!!
‘Take care,
-Geoff
Well then, THEY TOO ought to knock it off. Ps yes I have gotten the “you do not know what you are talking about since you have been over there too long” routine from detractors. Not all the time, but from time to time.