Cleveland St. University Democratic Debate Analysis

Is 20 debates too many? Probably. But as far as debates go, this one is one of the most important ones to date. It trumped all the previous debates rendering the others semi-pointless.

Healthcare led the topics of this debate. Both candidates reiterated their stance and points on their individual plans. There was not much substance about HOW we get from where we are now to either of their plans. That will prove to the challenge of healthcare.

Obama and Clinton both pledged to substantially change NAFTA. They individually pointed out some examples of those who have benefitted from NAFTA while emphasizing the need to make major revisions. Both agreed that if those changes could not be made with Canada and Mexico, NAFTA would have to be suspended.

The war and Clinton's vote for that war continued to be Obama's strength. Clinton tried to point out that she had the responsibility for making a decision that Obama did not have. Obama reiterated that the Iraq war has been a strategic blunder and that Clinton made the decision to give the president the authority to make that blunder while he has always been very vocal about his objections to the war.

When asked if Obama would leave Iraq if asked by the Iraqi government, Obama replied that we would have to because as President Bush has pointed out on numerous occasions, they are a sovereign nation. He stated that we would have to be as careful about getting out as we were careless about getting in. On the same question, Clinton pointed out that it would be in America's interest and in the interest of the Iraqi government to have an orderly withdrawal, and that her plan was to take out one to two brigades a month once she's president. She continued to point out that Obama heads the subcommittee that could be holding oversight hearings on Afghanistan and hasn't. He did not deny that fact.

A clip was shown of Clinton exaggerating what a wonderful world it would be if everyone just followed Obama. Obama pointed out that his actions are more than words and speeches. He gave examples of things he's done such as helping veterans in hospitals so they don't have to pay for phone calls and meals anymore. He continued to explain that nobody is listening to the common person. He stated that he is not interested in talk or speeches and that he would not be running if he wasn't convinced that he could put forth a economic policy that would help common people.

Obama criticized Clinton on her experience. He emphasized that she is running on her experience acting as a co-president taking credit for her husband's experience. He didn't deny she has the right to do so but that she can't take credit for the good things of that presidency and not take credit for the things that didn't work.

Commentator Tim Russert questioned Obama about keeping his word on public financing. When he first entered the presidential race, he checked yes on a presidential form that if he ran for president he would take public financing. And now it seems Obama won't commit to actually doing that. Obama pointed out if he is the nominee he would talk to McCain to make sure the field was fair. He wants to make sure the system works form everybody.

Clinton was questioned for not releasing her tax return with her husband. She guaranteed that she will release the tax return upon becoming the nominee. On a similar topic of releasing information, she was then asked about releasing President Clinton's presidential notes, specifically, the notes of the schedule of first lady. Clinton assured that those notes would be released as soon as possible.

Obama was questioned about Minister Louis Farrakhan's support. Obama made it very clear that he did not solicit his support and was not doing anything formally or informally to get his support . He stated that he denounced Farrakhan's record, that the things he has said is reprehensible and inappropriate. Clinton attempted to show weakness by Obama, pointing out that she rejected past support from hateful organizations or others. Obama shut down that argument but conceding her point and agreeing to denounce AND reject Farrakhan's message.

When discussing Russia and the United States policy toward Russia, Clinton was able to give more specifics on the situation facing Russia and President Putin's democratic monopoly. Obama didn't offer much dissent from Clinton and appeared weak on this subject in comparison.

The commentators ended with asking both candidates about a vote they regretted. This was Clinton's biggest moment of the evening. She stated that she would take back her vote on the war. She continued to say that it was a sincere vote but that she would never vote that way again. Obama regretted his vote about Terry Schiavo. He was apologetic about allowing congress to interject in the families' decision and not taking action to stop it.

The debate was a wash. Clinton's goal seemed to be to present herself as a fighter. Obama was unshakable and cool. Both candidates were strong and resolute in their statements. Clinton showed strength in foreign policy and Obama showed strength on domestic issues. This campaign is coming down to personality. Both candidates are strong, capable, and knowledgeable individuals. It all depends on which personality voters prefer in the end.