April 22, 2008 - 2:46pm
Grading the 6th CD debate
By Wally Edge
Category: HouseTags: Debate, Tom Tancredo, Mike Coffman, Ted Harvey, Wil Armstrong, Steve Ward, 6th CD, PolitickerCO.com debateTop Story: Opinion
In watching the debate last night at the Southridge Rec Center, we looked at both style and substance in grading each of the 6th CD candidates and here are Wally's conclusions: Mike Coffman Grade: A
The only thing negative that we can say about Coffman’s performance was that the hand signals and gestures between he and his wife Cynthia were distracting at times. And just a little too obvious. Sure, Mike should have gone out in front of the crowd just like Steve Ward, but Cynthia looked like a nag in mentioning it with her hands. Otherwise Coffman looked exactly like you’d expect a congressman to look. He was well informed, smooth and persuasive.
Steve Ward Grade: B
Ward was probably the biggest winner of the night, although expectations for him were pretty low. Still as rough as we’ve been on him in this column, we have to admit, he could be fill out the suit of a congressman. Of course that’s not saying much. Mark Twain once remarked that congressmen were the only native criminal class in America. Still Ward was persuasive on the Iraq war, and energy, although we think he’s out of step with the district on some issues like the draft and a guest worker program.
Ted Harvey Grade: C-
Harvey did his usual “I’m the most conservative” talk, which sells in the 6th CD. But one gets the impression people are skeptical of Harvey’s patented line “I’ll be Nancy Pelosi’s worst nightmare.” Harvey’s record has not been that impressive in the legislature and he seemed petty when pointing out minor differences between himself and his opponents. Still, the district is very conservative and Harvey probably best represents what Tancredo stood for in substance even if he’s lacking in style points. The problem is that Tancredo was never considered that wonderful a congressman, even he was right about immigration, and the district deserves an upgrade.
Wil Armstrong Grade: D
Armstrong was outclassed all night by the professional politicians on stage. Whether it was his Kermit-the-frog-like pursing of his lips as he listened or several of the notable gaffs he made, Armstrong has shown that he still has a long way to go to catch the other guys if he wants to go to congress. He stumbled in saying that he knew of no one who thought they paid “too much in taxes,” when obviously meant to say “too little.” He also stumbled in saying he would let the generals decide when victory was achieved in Iraq, a mistake that Ward took full advantage of. More practice and more preparation for young Wil Armstrong is highly recommended.
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change direction
the debate was entertaining and informative. But what I got out of this
debate is that there are 4 outstanding
candidates running to represent cd-6.
With the way things are going in this nations, it's time to change the direction that this nation is headed. Why have the same ole political thinking of career politician with polished resumes. I think a fresh approach is needed. That why Wil Armstrong has my vote, he is the right person for these perilous times our nations faces in bringing a fresh approach to fixing the environment in DC.
CD-6 debate
Change. Yes, we sure as Hell need some change in Washington D.C. After watching the debate mentioned, I've come to the conclusion that Wil Armstrong, although a nice, likable guy with business experience, would definitely try and change things, but he has no idea how to. At least the other candidates for Congress have the experience and know-how to create this change. Daddy is not going to Washington D.C., the son is. Wil needs more experience in the political arena before criticizing others.
Should Mike Coffman stay Colorado Secretary of State? Does it really matter? No, for two reasons. One, the SOS's office is one of the most regulated elected positions in Colorado. Regardless of who ends up in the SOS office(be they Republican or Democrat), they too will be as controlled by statues as Mike Coffman. Two, I'm selfish. I admit it. If I'm going to send someone to Washington D.C. to represent me in Congress, I want the very best. Mike Coffman is the very best of the four candidates. My apologies to the rest of Colorado's citizens, but the rest of state's loss is the CD-6 citizens gain.
cd-6 debate
I think Armstrong represents an upgrade for district 6, Armstrong being a businessman has experience real world problems having to make real world solutions. I have heard Armstorng speak and he is brief and to the point on the issues, while coffeman stumbles and looks very undecided on issues plus he has not figure out how to be a Secretary of State yet so how can he be an effective representive for cd-6. the other candidates are just glad to have their names mention in the same breath with Armstrong.
Mostly Agree
The review my Mr. Edge is the most spot on assessment I have seen of Wil Armstrong yet. Since meeting Wil for the first time two months ago I have had my first impression that he is a lightweight in this race confirmed. I have heard him speak twice since then and each time he covers a few issues but with little depth. Wil is not ready for prime time. His decision to opt out of the caucus seems to me to be an end-run around the party that recognizes that Wil isn't ready and the primary is a way to get name recognition working for him.
Secretary of State Mike Coffman has great name recognition but the electronic balloting issue could come back to bite him. I mostly agree with his approach. I thought he was a bit heavy handed but given the importance of protecting the voting process I don't think he had much choice. It's better to attack the issue head on now and be accused of being heavy handed than to have everything go wrong on election day and get the blame.
Mr. Coffman is a good speaker. He has a very good grasp of the Colorado issues. His experience during his deployment to Iraq can only helps to broaden his ability to speak to issues outside of Colorado.
I was surprised that Mr. Coffman is opting out of the caucus. I thought he had a pretty good shot at it.
Steve Ward seems to have come out of nowhere. I have seen more campaign material from Mr. Ward than any other candidate for this race. The energy syposium he sponsored was very interesting and (gasp!) even balanced. His experience at the city, county and state level gives him a good idea of what Colorado at all levels is facing.
As with Mr. Coffman, Mr. Ward's experience in Iraq and Afghanistan should help him on the broader stage of issues beyond Colorado.
I have not committed to supporting Steve Ward, but I am leaning that way. I'm planning to see the next debate before I make a decision.
I haven't heard Ted Harvey speak but I think I have met him. He doesn't seem to be working this race very hard.
Sorrry
Sorry about the double post, my fault.
Frustration
It is sad to me that Mr. Edge places so much faith in these "proffesional politicians" (Ward, Harvey, and Coffman), a faith I believe is misplaced. Proffesional politicians have spent this nation into the ground causing massive influx of debt. The reason we don't have secure borders or a pragmatic approach to healthcare or a solution in Iraq or efficiency in government is proffesional politicians.
Why on Earth would we send another to Washington to represent the 6th CD?
Frustration
It is sad to me that Mr. Edge places so much faith in these "proffesional politicians" (Ward, Harvey, and Coffman), a faith I believe is misplaced. Proffesional politicians have spent this nation into the ground causing massive influx of debt. The reason we don't have secure borders or a pragmatic approach to healthcare or a solution in Iraq or efficiency in government is proffesional politicians.
Why on Earth would we send another to Washington to represent the 6th CD?
Politicians as Usual!
Was the reporter in attendance at the debate? I came away with a different impression entirely.
Just because someone is a career politician does not mean they are the best LEADER for our Country. Wil Armstrong brings real world experience, understanding of business and fiscal discipline, the economy and the real issue of the times: jobs, jobs, jobs. Let's elect a proven job creator.
I think our Secretary of State should not resign his current important post to a Democrat (liberal Ritter gets to appoint if Mike surrenders the position) -- I'd like to see him stick with his commitment and protect our voting process in Colorado.
Mike Coffman is tops!
I'm am continually impressed with Mike Coffman. He has so much experience in State politics, in the military, and in life, generally speaking. He is definitely the most qualified candidate to represent CD 6 in our nation's capitol. There is SO much at stake in this election, from the president on down, and Mike would fulfill his responsibilities with dignity, humility, and knowledge!
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