April 12, 2006 

WRTA

 Brown Shoes Diary 

Some Thoughts on Debate 1

I was able to listen to the WRTA radio broadcast of the first 30th District senatorial debate and I also saw the PCN television broadcast a few days later.  It very much reminded me of the Nixon-Kennedy debates in 1960.  Those who heard those debates on radio thought Nixon won, while those who saw the debates on TV thought that Kennedy won.
 
Listening on radio, Senator Jubelirer sounded energetic and passionate.  John Eichelberger sounded reserved and lethargic.  Arnold McClure sounded as if he was on power-save.
 
But on TV, Jubelirer looked desperate and agitated, while Eichelberger exuded confidence and aplomb.  McClure came off as a capable and worthy candidate.
 
I hadn't known very much about Arnold McClure before the debate, but I'm now hoping he withdraws.  It isn't that he's interfering in a long awaited showdown--I firmly respect everyone's right to run for office.  No, the problem with Mr. McClure is that he's got just plain bad ideas.  As I see the candidates, Bob Jubelirer says he will make the government an even bigger intruder in our lives, while John Eichelberger says he wants to make it less of a problem.  Arnold McClure seems to think government is just the right size--it only needs someone like him working to increase the minimum wage and advancing a host of other socialist ideas.  Anybody who doesn't see government as well beyond its proper bounds and in need of serious cuts, just doesn't deserve to serve in a state whose motto is "Virtue, Liberty, and Independence."


The opinions and ideas expressed in this essay are those of John D McGinnis and should not be considered representative of WRTA.com, any institution with which McGinnis is associated, or anyone else.  He can be contacted at zoiprof@atlanticbb.net.

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