Unofficial Republican Debate scoreboard
Good
1. Kasich - helped by "the home crowd" the Gov. of Ohio came off as reasonable, considering the company he's in, and has the much coveted Executive experience. Reminded everyone about the Federal budget once being balanced (without mentioning Pres. Clinton's name) and that he was there at the time. Authority sells.
2. Christie - he reminded everyone who he is. He was in toned down Christie mode last night. Authority and belligerence sells with that crowd.
3. Trump - when the first question is about you, you are the leader. When both other candidates and the moderators focus on you repeatedly, you are still the leader. Just the right hint of belligerence.
4/5. Rubio - he could be in the next group but he got his message out without getting steamrolled by the pack.
5/4. Walker - like Rubio he hit his marks and let the others fight it out. The less talking for him the better, he's going to run via Koch Bros. TV money.
Eh
6. Cruz - he does better on long scripted memorized speeches and moving on the stage. Came off as a doofus.
7. Jeb BUSH - didn't seem to care/was overshadowed standing next to Trump. Looks like he has lost some weight but was stiff and came off as a private school dandy.
Bad
8. Rand Paul - attacked Trump early and it looked like it was desperation, almost. Never connected through the camera which he usually does well. Too many short jabs. Never got into a rhythm to throw combinations.
9. Huckabee - terrible. Mean, angry, etcetera. Worst of the field other than ....
10. Ben Carson - disappeared. Made a joke about it but it was at his own expense really.
On edit - went to bed last night and told my wife "We're safe" meaning whomever the Dem nominee is.
