Obama, McCain Debate American Economic Issues
Obama, McCain Focus on Domestic Problems in Race for the White House
Oct 7, 2008
As the Presidential hopefuls debated the issues on October 7th, 2008, in Nashville Tennessee, it had become evident that the road to the White House would be paved through America's current economic crisis. With a fifth consecutive stock market session ending in sharp declines Americans are becoming alarmed by the state of their retirement income, along with mortgage value declines, and potential tax increases.
Obama and McCain Continue very Passionate, but Critical Message
From the onset of the debate it was clear that the very critical political rhetoric exchanged between the two candidates, in recent days, would continue throughout the debate. It was apparent from the initial question that both candidates would continue their strong criticism of each other’s previous, as well as future policies. In discussing the position of economic relief Senator McCain very pointedly focused on the restructuring of bad home mortgages, while Obama was quick to point out that the economic crises was a direct result of the Bush administration. An administration in which Obama stated "Was supported by Senator McCain"(Obama, Barack. Second Presidential Debate Coverage, ABC Broadcasting. October 7th, 2008, 7:00pm PST).
As the discussion moved to the issue of tax relief for Americans the criticism continued as the candidates pulled no punches in regards to their opposition’s tax policies. When referencing the steadiness of Obama’s potential plan McCain was very descriptive. He referred to Obama’s tax policies as indirect, by stating “They’re like nailing Jell-O to a wall” (McCain, John. Second Presidential Debate Coverage, ABC Broadcasting. October 7th, 2008, 7:00pm PST). While addressing McCain’s universal approach to providing tax refunds to Americans for health insurance Obama contended, “It’s like swinging a hatchet at the problem. I want to dig at this issue with a scalpel”(Obama, Barack. Second Presidential Debate Coverage, ABC Broadcasting. October 7th, 2008, 7:00pm PST).
While the candidate’s critical evaluation of each other continued, a well designed plan on how to escape the current crisis never really surfaced by either candidate. In facing the possibilities of national economic panic both candidates merely made reference to the controversial “Bailout Package” that was passed by Congress last week for potential solutions.
Candidates Discuss Presidential Priorities
One of the more revealing questions issued to either candidate, throughout the course of the evening, was issued by the moderator, Tom Brokaw. The question required the candidates to propose a priority list of events that would take place if either were elected as President. McCain explained, in generalities, how all of the issues facing America today would be a top priority of his Presidency. Obama countered by addressing, and identifying, his three most critical concerns facing Americans. Obama cited energy, health care, and education as his upmost focus, along with the obvious economic crisis.
Debate Analysis
With the primary focus of the debate relating to the economy many political strategists felt that Senator John McCain was in need of a large victory to change his diminishing political momentum. This was not the large victory McCain was looking for. In an article written for the Associated Press, Liz Sidoti writes “Barack Obamamade strides toward easing voters’ concerns about his candidacy in Tuesday night’s debate. John McCain, despite raising questions about his rival’s readiness, didn’t create the game-changing moment he’ll need between now and Election Day” (Sidoti, Liz. Obama Gains, McCain Seeks Game-Changer, Associated Press. http://news.yahoo.com). Even though both candidates turned in very educated and well articulated performances, neither candidate undoubtedly sealed the deal based on that performance.
 |
