The NYT taped the Democratic candidates (minus Biden) answering the same questions–a mixture of policy and personal inquiries–and put the tapes on their web page. The effect of it is similar to a debate, except you can view it at your leisure. If you have an opportunity, I recommend it.
I watched selected responses from most of the first and second-tier candidates. I skipped Bernie, because I’m already completely familiar with his act. Here are my impressions:
- Booker comes across as being polished and articulate, but he never really seems to answer the questions or say anything really substantial.
- Harris is effective when she answers questions spontaneously. Mostly, she doesn’t.
- Klobuchar is refreshingly and openly moderate, but she talks too much, and her panders to Iowa voters are annoying.
- Mayor Pete gives clear and thoughtful answers to the questions. I can see why he has emerged as a second-tier candidate from complete obscurity.
- Warren is definitely the best of the lot. She has succeeded in honing her message over time. That bodes well for her performance during the debate.