2016 Postmortem
In reply to the discussion: Is it now abundantly clear why DWS and Hillary want to limit exposure to voters? [View all]BlueCaliDem
(15,438 posts)We're not talking about unsanctioned debates. We're talking about DNC sanctioned debates that falls under DWS' responsibilities, and there were only six in 2004 and 2008.
Now the O'Malley and Sanders camp want to buck the rules and demand more debates?? Why? Because Bernie Sanders is running? Why is he so special that the DNC has to break the rules and add more debates? Reality check: Obama, a historically special candidate, only got six debates and was still able to win the nom. Why do Bernie Sanders supporters (the most vocal about this issue) think he won't get a fair shot without more debates? Especially with his tens and thousands of crowds, daily appearances on every show they can book, and Weekends with Bernie.
And then to add Hillary Clinton's name to this slanderous conspiracy theory is beyond the pale. She, herself, has said she's open to more sanctioned debates. She wanted more sanctioned debates in 2008. So to claim the exact opposite of what she's publicly been stating since 2008 is ridiculous at best. More debates only benefit her as an experienced politician who's done this many times before.
"I debated a lot in 2008 and I would certainly be there with lots of enthusiasm and energy if (the DNC) decide to add more debates," Clinton said during a press conference in Portsmouth. "And I think that's the message a lot of people are sending their way." ~ Hillary Clinton at Portsmouth 09/2015
Yet this conspiracy theory running through the Sanders camp that Hillary Clinton is against more debates because "she's afraid she might slip-up" runs counter to the facts - facts underscored by none other than RW-pollster, Frank Luntz, himself. Via his twitter: If GOP thinks Hillary is easily beatable, they're wrong It's not just words, but her tone & style are the best I've seen so far.
And since he's the clarion for the GOP, common sense dictates that he's sending out a warning to them and their supporters, and he would know what he's talking about.
Oh, and by the way? Hillary Clinton handled herself perfectly well and presidential last night - something I can't say about both O'Malley and Sanders.