13 reasons to watch the debate on CNN's platforms and nowhere else
Editor's note: CNN's special presidential debate coverage with Anderson Cooper, Wolf Blitzer and the political team starts at 7 p.m. ET. Watch and join the conversation.
1) Candy... Candy... Candy
Sure, you'll be able to see her on some other channels/websites, but only CNN will have exclusive access to moderator Candy Crowley’s as she prepares for the debate. Dig into this insightful profile about the network’s chief political correspondent and host of Sunday morning’s “State of the Union,” check outadvice she’s getting from the CNN’s top reporters and anchors and listen to suggested questions posted by CNN iReporters.
2. Clip-and-Share Video on CNN.com
Want to hear that quote again? With this tool, you can be your own producer and pause, rewind, and cut your own video clips using our new “clip and share technology” on CNN.com and on the iPad tablet. You can also post key video moments to Facebook and Twitter. Check it out at CNN.com/debates.
Letters to the President #1366: 'Tonight's debate: The female factor'
Reporter's Note: President Obama and Mitt Romney are preparing for tonight’s debate, the second in this presidential election. I am preparing today’s letter to the president, the 1366th in this series.
Dear Mr. President,
If the political prognosticators are correct, in all likelihood you will introduce the idea of women into tonight’s town hall meeting. Presumably that’s because you want to point out what your administration has done for them, why they should be grateful, and why they should accordingly vote for you. Fair enough. The polls say you’ve been outrunning Romney on that front, and cementing the support of female voters is not a bad idea.
Here is a caution, however: Make sure you know what they like about you.
Oh sure, you probably have a pretty good instinct for what dedicated Democratic women like. They are fully on board with you when it comes to classic liberal or Democratic issues, not the least of which is all this latest debate over abortion rights.
But what about the middle women; the independents, the moderates, and the apolitical? Do you really know why they are (or are not) in your camp?
This is a critical question because it could dramatically shape your ability to appeal to them tonight. If, for example, you go on the attack against your Republican opponent, only to find out that it fights your image as a compassionate, caring person, then you may find the very women you are reaching out to, turning away. If, on the other hand, you play everything too soft, and women see you as being weak in support of their causes then you could also suffer.
With at least some indication that Romney’s standing with women rose after the first debate, you also have to ask yourself, “Why?” Was it simply that he appeared more caring and likeable than before? Was it that you seemed disengaged? Or did the substance of his arguments cut through to female voters in a new way?
I suspect you and your staff have answers to most of these questions, even if those answers are imperfect. But I would make one last suggestion, the same one I would give to Mr. Romney as he seeks to court the female vote: Watch their reactions in the crowd, listen to what they say, and make sure that you treat them with the respect, intelligence, and politeness they deserve. I think women, who spend much of their lives dealing with men and male expectations and male biases, can sniff out a politician who is trying to patronize them in an instant. It clatters against their political sensibilities like a guy walking up in a bar with a canned compliment and the offer of a drink. And I’m pretty sure they don’t like it.
So explain what you’ve done in a straightforward manner, and ask for their votes, but be careful about lecturing them on your record or your opponent’s. Because they already know the truth, and they may resent anything that smacks of manipulation.
I suppose you are too busy to call today, but once the big hoo-ha is over, give a call if you have a minute.
Regards,
Tom
Malala's recovery process after Taliban attack
Dr. Sanjay Gupta explains the medical treatment Malala, 14, will receive in England. He says her young age is a beneficial factor for the process her brain will need to go through to rewire itself.
The Pakistani teen was targeted by the Taliban and shot twice at point-blank range while she was in a school van with other students. Malala was attacked for promoting girls' education.
Reza Sayah reports on what Pakistani officials are doing to try to find those responsible for the attack. There have been a few arrests, but they are still investigating.
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Post by: Filed under: Dr. Sanjay Gupta • Pakistan • Reza Sayah • Taliban |
Winning and losing debate body language
Tuesday’s town hall style presidential debate will require the candidates to flex different debating muscles. Body language expert Janine Driver walks Anderson through some do’s and don’ts.
Mitt Romney has been known to point his finger to express himself, which Driver says can be seen as "aggressive." The open palm is a more appealing move.
The "thumb of power" is another hand gesture often seen at debates or when candidates are speaking to a large audience. "It's a combination of chopping and pointing. It's much better and softer," says Driver.
Another tell is when one hand is wrapped around the wrist of the other hand. Driver explains this behavior as "the higher the hold, the more anxiety is told."
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Post by: Filed under: 2012 Election |
KTH: Basis for Romney's tax plan questioned
Anderson Cooper takes a closer look at studies behind Mitt Romney's tax plan and why critics say the math doesn't add up.
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Post by: Filed under: 2012 Election • Keeping Them Honest • Mitt Romney • Taxes |
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