New Hampshire Debate roundup: Republicans
Impressions of the Republicans debating in New Hampshire Saturday night from around the blogsphere:
- *The Fix: "The second half of the 90-minute debate was dominated by a heated discussion between Romney and McCain over illegal immigration -- the touchstone issue for conservatives not only in New Hampshire but nationwide. McCain defended his support for a comprehensive immigration plan, insisting that he did not provide amnesty to those who are here illegally because they would have to abide by a number of strictures including learning English and paying fines.Not surprisingly, that did not satisfy Romney, who argued that McCain backed amnesty. "I disagree fundamentally with the idea that the 12 million people who came here illegally should be allowed to remain in United States," said Romney."
*Isaac Hunter's Tavern: "McCain: Solid. Smart, confident, funny, and still statesmanlike. Whatever you think of him, it’s true that when he talks, everyone else shuts up and listens. Which is kind of what you want in a president. Did nothing tonight to hurt his lead, and probably helped it."
*Guarino: "On the Republican side, Giuliani and Thompson did reasonably well. Huckabee seemed to be less in command than during previous debates. There were repeated verbal barbs given and received by Huckabee, McCain and Romney. Romney appeared strong during certain parts of the debate, and weak during other segments. It is unclear to me whether the negative approach taken by McCain will hurt or help him."
*New York Times: Transcript of the debate.