Let the race begin

I am officially interested in the presidential campaign. I have refused to really get involved in the campaign until this month. The way I figure it, nobody should have to put up with that nonsense for more than a year. I know that I'm interested because kept changing the channel from a football game to the Democratic debate last night. It really was much more interesting.

So now that I'm paying attention, I am wondering a few things. Why is Hillary Clinton ahead of the rest of the pack? KT suggested and I tend to agree that it is all name recognition. I think she may generate some interest in that she is a woman, but after watching the debate, I can't understand why her ideas are better than all the others. In fact, she seems slow and behind the rest in actual ideas.

Obama, who I have been interested in, didn't looks so good. He just came off looking like he was fumbling for words and not addressing the questions. Underneath, I think he has good ideas, but they really didn't come through.

Kucinich was interesting as usual. I don't agree with all of his ideas, but at least he is clear and will answer questions. It is always interesting to see what he will say. I don't think he has a chance, but he is important to the campaign at this point because I think he brings up issues and challenges people.

Richardson is a surprising person. Lots of people say "who?" but I think he has some of the most interesting ideas. I am also impressed with his answers to questions. They answer the question asked most of the time. I did have the opportunity to shake his hand at a little fundraiser my work had a while back. He spoke for about half an hour and really displayed charisma and interesting ideas. Also, he has been running a state - which is more akin to the presidential responsibilities than being a senator. If not president, he would be an intereresting VP.

The other two that were interesting to listen to were Senators Dodd and Biden.

All in all, it was fun to watch. I do wish they would just answer the questions and not spend time running around them. I think that's why I don't like Edwards and didn't like Obama's responses in this debate. Tell us your ideas and we'll pick the winner. All in all, I think it is a strong field. Watch out republicans.