LETTER TO THE EDITOR:

Biden scored by making subtle points

Alvin Langer, Henderson

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008 | 2:05 a.m.

I would like to offer some observations on the Joe Biden-Sarah Palin debate that I did not hear from the pundits.

Palin repeatedly spoke with a big, forced smile. I found that not only unconvincing but also annoying, something that she had picked up from her Miss Alaska contest as well as from three days of intensive coaching before the debate. It did not seem genuine! Also, at none of the five colleges she attended did she learn how to pronounce the word “nuclear” (more of President Bush).

One of the most important statements Biden made pertained to judicial philosophy. John McCain has made it plain that if he has the opportunity, he will appoint far-right, ideological Supreme Court judges the country will have to live with probably through another generation.

Unfortunately the only opportunity to mention this was in a rather subtle way. I wonder how many voters think about that long-term effect of the election.

Also, when Palin repeatedly attempted to dissociate McCain from Bush, Biden’s retort was quite appropriate, even though not original: “The past is prologue.” That appears to be true in regard to McCain’s past support of the Bush policies as well as his campaign promises.

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By techserve

Oct. 4, 2008

6:20 a.m.

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So I guess what we can now conclude from the Palin/Biden debate, some of the "professionals'" analysis of the debate, and many of the voter's blog-responses and comments is that responding to a question with an answer that stays on topic is unimportant. What appears to matter is: if the debater, in answering a question, satisfies our preconceived idea of the truth-any truth--, if they are likeable and attractive (whatever that means), and if they are like us (once again, whatever that means). But isn't that like answering the question, "How do I get to Chicago" with, "I once went to the Grand Canyon, and it was truly one of the best places you could ever visit." delivered with a wink and a smile. Personally, I want to know where a candidate stands on all the issues that are pertinent to the office they are seeking. This includes answering the tough questions along with the easier questions. If they choose to use their rehearsed talking points in their responses so be it, but, at the very least, I look for some answers to be original and thoughtful. Hopefully, this is not asking too much of the ones that will lead our country for the next four years, and, hopefully, the voters will collectively make their voting decisions based on these on-point answers and political stands.
By tokaloshe

Oct. 4, 2008

7:54 p.m.

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describe a vice presidents job;

Thank you.