The Debate Begins

First question about the Bush foreign policy record....whether to run from it or on it...

Huckabee starts with a statement of principles....sounds a little out of his element....but recovers and gives specifics: "There were times when the arrogance was reflected in the former defense secretary..."

Thompson: "I don't think our foreign policy has been arrogant. Presidents are not perfect. Policies aren't perfect. But bottom line is, we're in a war against radical Islam...." ... Mentions 9/11.... "We weren't considered to be arrogant when we went into Afghanistan and won there..."

McCain says "I'd also like to give president Bush a little credit. Right after 9/11, every expert in the world said there would be another attack on..." the US... "but there hasn't been."

Giuliani defends and lists the Bush legacy... "it's very very good...." but "mistakes have also been made..:" Proposes to make up for the peace dividend... "we need at least 10 more combat brigades."

McCain says he;s the only one who disagreed "at the time" about Rumsfeld. But Bush should get credit for changing the strategy.

McCain gives props to Giuliani.

Ron Paul says he agreed with the policy that Pres. Bush ran on...

Romney: "Unfortunately Ron, you need a thorough understanding of radical Jihad...:" :"The president is not arrogant, the president is not subject to a bunker mentality and we owe a debt of gratitude for keeping us safe...."

Romney mispronounces Madrassah... "MAD-druh-says" -- he says.

Thompson gives a smart history of pre-emptive war...

Hey - Giuliani wants to talk about Ron Paul.... but that makes sense... he's competing in Paul's tier in New Hampshire, isn't he?

...Ooh, nice Sayyid Qutb reference by Romney... the entire GOP field is trying to show their toughness by ganging up on Ron Paul, who is lonely up there...

Crosstalking...

Huckabee cites Qutb academically....