Raise the Cup!: Presidential Forum

Last night I had the pleasure of having some time to tune in to PBS's Presidential Forum featuring the Democratic candidates. Having not seen the first 10 minutes or so, I was surprised when the camera panned the audience to find that almost everyone was of color. However, I came to learn that this was to be a panel of people of color asking questions that largely pertained to issues addressed in Tavis's book, The Covenant with Black America. Before I further comment on the program, I need to state that I have not read Tavis's book. The questions were poignant and sharp shooting, however, I found them to be very divisive to America in general. After about 20 minutes, I began wondering if this was a debate for those of color only. This morning, as I decided to come here and blog, I also determined that I need to read this book so I can better understand the purpose of such a debate. With all that said, these are my initial reactions to candidates and their responses, in no particular order.

Dennis Kucinich had some great responses. One point that hit home for me was in regards to out sourcing jobs. The truth of the matter is that we need a system set in place that rewards manufacturing in America. Many talk about child and slave labor that is inherently involved in jobs that are outsourced, yet no one seems to put 2 and 2 together...keep jobs in America and this will be a less likely occurrence. These jobs need to offer workers benefits, fair wages, and good working environments. In everyday banter, Dennis gets this.

This is the first time I have heard Biden speak, so I was eager to not only hear his responses, but also to get a feel for his presentation technique. Firstly, Biden offered an everyday Joe persona. He spoke in terms that all could understand and relate to. When discussing the current tax system he made a GREAT point that for the first time in history, wage earners are paying more taxes than investors. This never seems to come across to people. Tax cuts are great, as long as they provide relief for those who need it most. Way to go Joe! However, I was a little more than miffed, at his answer to the question of the higher unemployment rate for graduated black people than white drop outs. If memory serves, I beleive the statistic referred to males only. At any rate, Joe began his response implying that black children are behind the ball before they enter school. Huh? Is this strictly a black issue? Even if it is, why is that? Is this to say that black moms do not have the same opportunities to educate their pre-school aged children in the home? Biden then goes on to state that this is only a problem for disadvantaged families. Yes, I agree with that. Then he lost me when he stated that for pre-school education there should be more age 4 preschool programs available to all. Ok, I will not voice my opinions on the issue of the benefits of preschool here, but it occurs to me that for tax paying Americans, the better bang for the buck would be to educate the parents to better teach their children in their younger at home years. Why? Because investing in mandatory preschool educates only one child at a time per family, costing thousands for each child, where as investing to educate the parents puts the responsibility of raising the children back on the parents and tax payers only need to spend money to educate one person/couple to teach many children preparedness for school.

Not Presidential material.

John Edwards. On the outside, what's not to like about this guy? Yeah, I have heard all the reports about his contradictory life style to what he preaches, but show me a candidate that doesn't. Honestly. He speaks well, but there is an air of playing to the audience, that at times comes off unatuthentic. However, his points are fairly clear, and he is focused on a better America. When asked about the ratio of crime and punishment for whites vs. blacks, Edwards drives it home. While he touched on the black vs white issue, he spoke mainly of dealing with ALL people involved in criminal activity. Yes, justice is not blind in America, and it may not be color blind either, however there are some issues that shoudl truly be addressed. Edwards makes the point that for first time drug offenders, extensive drug treatment should be given, instead of jail time. If we are to try to reduce drug use in the country, we must address treating those who we can, and those would be the criminals invovled in the system. One thing everyone commented about is making a distinguishment between crack and powdered cocaine. What's all this about?

It's time for good ol Hillary. Ya know, I think Hillary has done some fantastic work. I also believe she speaks of some wonderful ideas. But does anyone else get the feeling she is riding on the coat tails of Bill on this election? Anyone else notice that every time she speaks she changes her point of view, sometimes ever so slightly, to fit the audience being addressed? I want to like her. I want to be able to say that a woman is before us who will make a good President. Yet, I can't. Something just seems shifty with this one. So much so that I am distracted by her actual points with thinking about other speeches she has given in which she stated contradictory points. If only she was a straight shooter.

Bill Richardson, better suited as governor than President.

The country has fallen head over heels in love with Barack Obama. He is definitely a good looking guy, with a winning personality, and a great sense of humor. He is witty, to say the least. I also enjoy the point she makes and his ideas to reviving America to the great state she once was. He has well though out answers on just about every topic. Yet, something slaps me in the face each time he speaks. He seems to be a "name thrower." You know the person who throws names about to make themsleves appear to have more clout? Obama doesn't necessarily throw names, but words and phrases to appeal to the audience of the day. Perhaps this is just good politics. Perhaps this indicative of his intelligence. Whatever it is, I would like to hear more from this Senator. Even if he doesn't win the election, we should all be watching him in the future.

Mike Gravel is a grandfatherly man who reminds me of Jason Robards. His speaking is a bit unrefined, which I tend to like. I didn't follow him on some of his points and he is not Presidential material, but I have to say, his closing remarks, were well planned, and gave me a chuckle if nothing else. "We have to have a President who has moral judgement. Most of the people on this stage do not have that moral judgement, and have proven it by what the've done." Hmmm....

These are my thoughts.