Seventeen candidates. Two debates. Thursday night was packed full with talk of foreign policy, economic issues and social conundrums. Fox News hosted the first GOP Primary debate for the upcoming 2016 election in Cleveland. All 17 candidates were ready to fight – or at least Trump was ready to fight everyone, while Chris Christie and Rand Paul were just ready to fight each other. This debate let voters get a closer glimpse of the Presidential wannabes. Some shone, some struggled and some were simply Trumped.
Who Won: Marco Rubio, John Kasich and, surprisingly, Carly Fiorina
Carly Fiorina: Although trailing in the polls and lacking experience in politics, Fiorina dominated and was one of the strongest performers of the 5 p.m. debate. She was sharp, poised and unafraid to take a jab at the very bombastic Trump. Fiorina cited her worldly connections, her understanding of the issues, and the party’s need for someone to attempt to take down Clinton. Fiorina gave GOP voters what she hopes is cause to reconsider to her position in this race.
John Kasich: Although tenth in the polls and just barely making the prime time debate, he used the home-court advantage well and had a huge night. He was authentic and showed a more compassionate side of the GOP. His performance not only did well for his campaign, but also did well for the total image of the party. Republicans are often plagued with stereotypes of being “out-of-touch” and abandoning younger voters. Kasich defied these labels and sold himself as a moderate candidate and an alternative to Bush. He also took a stance on gay marriage that moderates much appreciated.
Marco Rubio: He looked and sounded confident. Although he has recently been down in the polls and overshadowed by the circus that is Donald Trump, Rubio stepped up to bat and, in my opinion, hit a home run. He was not afraid to speak his mind, and his voice did not waver when challenged with the tough questions. He appeared to be the most presidentially poised and showed how he could utilize his young age and be the new generation’s leader, much like past and current presidents Kennedy and Obama.
Who Lost: Jeb Bush and Donald Trump.
Jeb Bush: The son of one president and the brother of another, Bush should have this in his blood. Although he had no big slip up, he definitely appeared to be a rusty debater. Stumbling over words and lacking the confidence and passion that others made apparent, Bush looked and sounded nervous. Instead of solidifying why he should be the next president, he left voters wondering if he truly wants this and slipped beneath the cracks. He also admitted his brother's decision to enter the war in Iraq was a mistake.
Trump: Do we really need to go into detail? He picked a fight with the moderator and called out Rosie O'Donnell. Want more proof? See for yourself.
What’s Next: Trump will continue to make a mockery of himself and his campaign. The only way he can truly “make America great again” is by dropping out of the race. I predict that Rubio and Kasich will continue to shine. With excellent experience, polish and public speaking abilities, both will continue to grow (a Rubio/Kasich ticket, anyone?). I expect Bush to do better. With a debate under his belt, he has dusted off the nerves and will come back stronger. Although Fiorina may see a rise in the polls, I don’t believe that she has the funding or the backing to be the next president; however, don’t count her out as a candidate for vice-president.
This is an important time for Republicans. With an outgoing president and control in both the House and the Senate, they have an opportunity to take control of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue again. With Hillary Clinton as their top Democratic competition, they need to unite and inspire Americans again. They need to prove that they aren’t out of touch, but rather understand the voters and have a clearer vision and plan for the United States. Pay attention America – this could be future and it is time to take notice.
