Minimum Wage Free “Opportunity Zones” are Stupid
As an independent and generally conservative Republican, I find Cain’s “opportunity zones” with no minimum wages is plain stupid. He’s trying to score political points with union– and minimum wage-hating conservatives. What he is really doing is suggesting “high-profit business zones” where the taxpayer will have to supplement those 3rd world wages with food stamps, health care, and other social services that workers will not be able to afford. Yes, the taxpayer will pay so that business can make high profits.
Another Day, Another Debate
After watching and sleeping on the debate overnight, here’s my thoughts about it.
Anderson Cooper reveled in masterfully egging everyone on in a debate that showed mostly the weaknesses of the various candidates. It made great and informative theater. The result was also rather troubling.
Perry was interruptive and rude, took cheap shots, and was simply unlikable. Even the crowd booed him repeatedly. If this were a reality show, Perry would be unanimously voted off the island.
Romney handled himself well. He clearly was prepared for the onslaught and called out Perry for his combative behavior. Romney requited himself well and continued to show why he’s the real front-runner and likely GOP candidate.
Cain couldn’t defend his 9–9-9 proposal and had nothing else to offer. His defenses on this and his recent and repeated wild statements were not convincing. He wanted to stay with simple platitudes when being asked specifics. He’s got a growing electability that is going to be is undoing.
Bachmann was shrill, irritating, and continued her me-too theme she’s had throughout the campaign.
Even Paul seemed more shrill than usual last night.
Newt has found a niche as the conscious of the party, justifying his presence even if it makes him no more electable than before.
Santorum threw me off when he noted his 7 year old daughter had some undisclosed surgery yesterday and he chose to be in Las Vegas for the debate instead of at the hospital with her. His lack of family values over his quixotic and irrelevant campaign presence was like a scarlet letter on his forehead all evening. Even if he was the frontrunner, he should have been home with his daughter as no single debate is make-or-break.
My conclusions? Anderson, Romney, and Newt won. Perry absolutely and completely lost it. Cain, too. The others really need to explain why they are still showing up. And Huntsman or Johnson? No one missed or mentioned them.
