REPUBLICAN DEBATE

I thought that both Romney and Giuliani had a good night. By "good night" I mean they didn't mess up and I think how they handled themselves will play well with voters. I don't mean I agree with them on everything- especially the former Mayor of NYC- who I simply will not vote for. I thought McCain did poorly.

I fell in love with Huckabee and Tancredo last night, especially Tancredo. I thought the biggest losers of the night were the people who came up with those lame agenda-driven questions. I loved when Tancredo called them out on their question about whether republican candidates need to shift to the center (code for compromise on convictions) to get elected. The question wasn't asked to him, but I loved that he didn't let them get away with that question. I also loved how much abortion was discussed. It seemed like it was discussed more than the war... as it should be. Giuliani aside (and Gilmore too to some extent), it was very encouraging to hear their position on the issue and to see them hold that position without an ounce of shame or apology.

I thought it was a good night, and I am declaring Tancredo and Huckabee the winners of the debate.

I am declaring Chris Matthews the loser.

...and I am officially withdrawing my controversial partial endorsement of Romney and I am giving it to Tancredo and Huckabee.

The Josh Tate Blog endorsement carries a lot of weight in some circles.