To paraphrase Duke Ellington, "It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that spin."

May 3
-GIULIANI:  Rudy's Optimistic Leadership (9:48 p.m.)
-McCAIN:  WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: JOHN MCCAIN AT REAGAN LIBRARY DEBATE (11:19 p.m.)
-ROMNEY:  Governor Mitt Romney Wins First Debate With Message Of Conservative Change In Washington (9:30 p.m.)
-ROMNEY:  ROMNEY RECORD: A Statement From Governor Matt Blunt (R-MO) (9:38 p.m.)
-ROMNEY:  ROMNEY RECORD: A Statement From Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC) (9:43 p.m.)
-ROMNEY:  ROMNEY RECORD: A Statement From James Bopp, Jr. (9:46 p.m.)
-ROMNEY:  Former Republican Party Of Florida Chairman Al Cardenas On Tonight's Debate (10:09 p.m.)
-THOMPSON:  Governor Thompson Wins The Iraq Debate (10:41 p.m.)

-RNC:  RNC Chairman Robert M. "Mike" Duncan on 2008 Republican Presidential Debate in California (9:32 p.m.)
-DNC:  GOP Displays More Failed Leadership at Debate (?time stamp not clear)
-EDWARDS:  Edwards Statement in Response to Republican Presidential Debate (10:11 p.m.)

May 4
-GIULIANI:  Congressman David Dreier's (Giuliani Campaign) Post-Debate Thoughts
-McCAIN:  WHAT THEY'RE SAYING, PART II: JOHN MCCAIN AT REAGAN LIBRARY DEBATE
-McCAIN:  WHAT THEY'RE SAYING, PART III: JOHN MCCAIN AT REAGAN LIBRARY DEBATE
-PAUL:  Ron Paul Wins MSNBC Debate Poll
-ROMNEY:  WHAT THEY'RE REALLY SAYING: About Governor Mitt Romney At The First GOP Debate
-ROMNEY:  WHAT THEY'RE REALLY SAYING: About Governor Mitt Romney At The First GOP Debate - Volume 2

-DNC:  The Reviews are in and the Winner is…the Democrats!

May 8
-PAUL:  Ron Paul Builds Momentum

E-MAIL from Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee, Inc.

Tonight we had our first opportunity to see the entire field of Republican presidential candidates debate. I now feel more confident the Republican Party is the party of ideas, and we’re the right party to lead America into an even more prosperous future.

And after watching tonight’s debate, I am convinced more than ever that Rudy Giuliani is the right man to lead our party.

I invite you to watch my video at JoinRudy2008.com. Then encourage your friends and family to visit the Web site as well and join Team Rudy.

Simply put, Rudy Giuliani is the right man with the right ideas at the right time.

As we saw this evening, Rudy realizes no issue is more important than winning the war on terrorism, or as he correctly puts it, the terrorists’ war against us.

Rudy also believes that in order to keep our economy growing, we must cut taxes and put Washington’s appetite for big spending on a diet. Rudy not only believes these principles, he has the record to back them up.

See more of my thoughts on the debate by watching my response video now at JoinRudy2008.com.

Let’s work together to help Rudy Giuliani become the next President of the United States, and let’s elect a leader with the right ideas for our country.

Sincerely,
 

Sen. David Vitter (R-LA)

PS: Watch my debate response video now at JoinRudy2008.com. Then pass it on to your friends and family and encourage them to do the same.

"John McCain Won" With "Grade-A Performance"
 

Red State Blog's Erick Erickson: "John McCain won. Let's not dance around this. John McCain was willing to be blunt, critical, and honest." ("Red State" Blog, "Who Won & Who Lost First Take," www.redstate.com, 5/3/07)
 

· Power Line Blog's Paul Mirengoff: "Frankly, I think John McCain had the best night." (Power Line Blog, powerlineblog.com, Accessed 5/3/07)
 

National Review's Jim Geraghty: "[I] think he gave a grade-A performance. Fired up, some good lines, and in command." (Jim Geraghty, National Review's "The Hillary Spot" Blog, 5/3/07)
 

National Journal's Marc Ambinder: "[McCain] was in the zone " (Marc Ambinder, National Journal's Hotline "On Call," "Pre-Spin Analysis: Not Hardball," hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com, 5/3/07)
 

McCain "Looked Really Energetic Off The Top," Delivered "Crisp" Answers
 

CBN's David Brody: "McCain looked really energetic off the top, obviously trying to show that he is a serious leader who is a guy who knows how to get things done." (CBN's Brody File Blog, www.cbn.com, Accessed 5/3/07)
 

NBC's Chuck Todd: "McCain looks to be the most prepared tonight. His answers are crisp and ready for air." (MSNBC's First Read Blog, 5/3/07)
 

· Todd: "McCain solid." (MSNBC's First Read Blog, 5/3/07)
 

NBC's David Gregory: "McCain came out firing early." (MSNBC's Post-Debate Coverage, 5/3/07)
 

McCain "Forcefully" Said He Would Follow Bin Laden "To The Gates Of Hell." "Mr. McCain then came back and said forcefully that he would do whatever is necessary' to capture Osama bin Laden and then exploded with a big finish: I'll follow him to the gates of hell.'" (Kathryn Q. Seelye, The New York Times' "Caucus" Blog, "Liveblogging The GOP Debate," blogs.nytimes.com, 5/3/07)
 

Chicago Tribune's Jill Zuckman: "I think that John McCain has to be feeling very good tonight when it comes to the issue of abortion. He's been consistently opposed to abortion throughout his political career." (MSNBC's Post-Debate Coverage, 5/3/07)
 

The Atlantic's Andrew Sullivan: "McCain was easily the strongest on spending " (The Atlantic's "Daily Dish Blog," "Instapudit," theatlantic.com, 5/3/07)
 

CNN's Bill Schneider: McCain's Answer On Spending "Highlights His Strength: His Experience In Government." "McCain's answer on spending highlights his strength: his experience in government. When he talks about cost overruns in defense acquisitions, he sounds like he understands the problem from experience." (CNN's "Political Ticker" Blog, "Schneider: McCain Touts Experience," www.cnn.com, 5/3/07)

Simi Valley, CA – Tonight, Romney for President Communications Director Matt Rhoades released the following statement on the first Republican presidential debate:
 

"Tonight at the Reagan Library, Governor Romney stood out as the best candidate as a result of his outlining a vision for the policies needed to bring conservative change to Washington.  On every question posed and on every issue debated, Governor Romney clearly demonstrated he has both the proven record and the leadership capabilities required to win the Republican Party's nomination and lead America toward a brighter future.

"Voters learned tonight that with Governor Romney's strong leadership, there is no problem America cannot solve."
 

>>9:38 p.m.

SUMMARY
 

"Governor Romney did a superb job in the debate and he demonstrated that he is the right leader to bring change to Washington.  With a record of turning around troubled companies and institutions, Governor Romney has real, relevant experience.  More importantly, he brings a fresh perspective from outside the Beltway and he articulated his vision in the debate.  Our nation confronts a new generation of challenges and we need Governor Romney's innovative, executive leadership."

>>9:43 p.m.

SUMMARY
 

"More than any other Republican presidential candidate, Governor Romney has outlined an aggressive agenda to cut taxes.  He will lower taxes for all Americans, make the Bush tax cuts permanent, abolish the Death Tax and making savings tax-free for middle-income Americans.  Lower taxes protect jobs and ensure continued job creation.  Because America's strength rests with its people, Governor Romney believes Americans should be able to keep more of their hard-earned money."
 

"Governor Romney is the most forceful Republican candidate defending the freedom of speech.  He believes that we should not be limiting political speech, and the involvement of citizens in our democracy, in the name of campaign finance reform.  We need transparency and disclosure in our campaign finance system, but McCain-Feingold has done the opposite, driving contributions to groups dominated by the wealthy and with little accountability to the public.  All citizens should applaud Governor Romney's call to repeal McCain-Feingold."
 

>>10:09 p.m.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  May 3, 2007

CONTACT: Romney Press Shop

Boston, MA – Tonight, Al Cardenas, former Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida and a Chair of the Romney for President Florida Steering Committee, released the following statement on the first Republican presidential debate:
 

"During this evening's debate, Governor Romney decisively showed that he is the only candidate that can transform Washington through real change and conservative values.  Governor Romney won tonight's debate by clearly communicating his optimistic vision for America's future.  We are facing a new generation of challenges, and this evening's event was a great opportunity for more Americans to learn why Mitt Romney is the best equipped to confront them."
 

For Immediate Release
May 3, 2007

Contact: Tony Jewell

SIMI VALLEY, California – Governor Tommy G. Thompson showed Thursday night in the first Republican presidential debate that he is the only candidate in the field who has a clear and practical plan for building a politically and economically stable Iraq.

“As Americans, we have a duty to support our troops for as long as they are in the field of battle,” Governor Thompson said. “At the same time, we must help build a strong political and economic infrastructure so the Iraqi government and people can succeed on their own.”

Specifically, as the only candidate who is offering a comprehensive plan for long-term success, Governor Thompson believes the United States must take the following steps:

•       First, the Iraqi government should vote on whether they want United States in their country. If they do, we have greater world standing to be there and it further legitimizes our efforts domestically.  If not, the United States should leave. Iraq has a duly elected government and we should listen to its wishes.

•       Second, the United States should work with Iraqi leaders to form democratically elected governments in the nation’s 18 self-governing provinces that would operate under a national government. This will give Shiites, Sunnis and Kurds their own pieces of Iraq – their own land and their own say in how it is run.

•       Third, the United States should encourage the Iraqi government to give every Iraqi a stake in the nation’s rich oil reserves. Oil revenues should be divided in thirds among the national government, the provincial governments and individual Iraq citizens. This will create great incentive for all Iraqis to protect their oil reserves, while helping ensure that their federal and provincial governments govern fairly. And it will create wealth among all levels of society, inspiring entrepreneurship and economic growth – two major keys to bringing peace to Iraq.

Taken together, these three steps will give Iraqis – both the government and its citizens – an ownership stake in their newly free nation. With this ownership will come newfound hope and opportunity in a nation too long ruled and terrorized by dictators.
 

Republican National Committee Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan released the following statement in response to the 2008 Republican Presidential Debate at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California:
 

“Maybe there really are two Americas: one of promise and opportunity that Republicans talked about tonight, and one of retreat and disappointment that the Democrats talked about last week.”

“A week ago, America saw eight Democrats rush to the left. They argued to see who would be the first to leave Iraq to the terrorists, and who was most enthusiastic about raising our taxes.

 “Tonight, in contrast, the Republican candidates laid out their positive visions for America.  They talked about strategies to win the War on Terror, and how to keep our taxes low so our economy will continue to grow and create jobs.  The contrast with last week could not have been more stark.”
 

For Immediate Release
May 3, 2007

Contact: Stacie Paxton

Washington, DC – The Republican presidential candidates offered no new ideas and only more of the same failed leadership as they debated in California tonight. Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean issued the following statement following tonight’s debate:

“Tonight’s debate confirms that a Democrat will be elected in 2008. The Republican presidential contenders are only offering more of the same failed leadership and misplaced priorities that President Bush brought to the White House,” said Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean. “Americans are looking for new ideas and leaders who will do what’s right for America, not politicians who will do or say anything just to get elected. Democrats are offering a new direction and a clear vision for America’s future.”

Highlights of the failed leadership and misplaced priorities from the debate tonight follow:

GIULIANI: CONTRADICTS HIMSELF ON CHOICE…DURING THE DEBATE
Compounding his already confusing record on choice, Giuliani contradicted himself on most basic question of choice during the course of the debate.

“OK” To Repeal Roe. Towards the beginning of the debate, on Roe V Wade he said “It would be OK to repeal.” [MSNBC, 5/3/07]

But Would “Respect A Woman’s Right” To Choose: Later on Giuliani said “I hate abortion” but then continued to say that “I would respect a woman’s right to make a different choice.” [MSNBC, 5/3/07]

McCAIN: Flip Flops On Iraq
Now McCain Says Only With The New Strategy Does He Think It’s the Right Track. Tonight when asked “Do you need anything beyond what the president has now to win the war?” McCain replied, “Now I think it’s on the right track. The war was terribly mismanaged and we now have to fix a lot of mistakes that have been made. We have a new strategy and general and these young men and women are committed to win.” [MSNBC, 5/3/07]

But McCain Has Long Said That The War Is On The Right Track And That Bush’s Policies Were Working.

2005: McCain Said That Another Year Will Prove “Stay the Course” Is Working. “McCain believes that the U.S., and the cause of Iraqi independence, are moving forward in Iraq, a little bit at a time. ‘I think the situation on the ground is going to improve,’ he says. ‘Overall, I think a year from now, we will have made a fair amount of progress if we stay the course.’” [The Hill, 12/8/05]

2006: McCain Said That Iraq Was “On The Right Track” As The Country Moved Closer To Civil War. Speaking on the “Imus In The Morning” radio show on March 1, 2006, McCain played down the increasing civil violence in Iraq. When Imus remarked that Iraq “already looks like a civil war,” McCain responded, saying, “I keep trying to look at the bright side of this because we have to because the consequences of failure are catastrophic. But the gathering of the seven most respected religious leaders the day before yesterday, calling for calm and calling for some kind of reconciliation, I think, was important. I think, at least we’re on the right track here.” [MSNBC, Imus in the Morning, 3/1/06]

Romney Flip-Flops on Health Care...Again
Tonight Romney Defended His Massachusetts Healthcare Plan: He was asked “A year ago it seemed like you couldn't wait to tell about your health care experiment in Massachusetts. It's been criticized as something Hillary Clinton could be devised. You hardly mention it on your website. What's changed? Tonight Romney answered: “I love it. It's a fabulous program. I'm delighted that in our state we worked together across the aisle to find a way to get health care for all of our citizens, it's affordable and portable” [MSNBC, 5/3/07]

But Earlier This Year, Romney Distanced Himself From Health Care Plan. Mitt Romney distanced himself from his signature healthcare plan after potential hurdles emerged. Romney lowered expectations for the law he championed as governor. The healthcare plan offering near-universal health coverage was the centerpiece of Romney’s administration. Romney’s attempts to distance himself from the plan underscore how sensitive an issue the plan is with conservative audiences. The Boston Globe reports: “Many conservatives view the concept of requiring individuals to purchase health insurance, and penalizing some businesses that don’t offer it, as anathema to their principles.” [Boston Globe, 2/3/07]

Last Year, Romney Signed Landmark Healthcare Legislation. In 2006, Governor Mitt Romney signed landmark legislation today that would make health insurance available to every resident of Massachusetts within three years. Romney said, “An achievement like this comes around once in a generation, and it proves that government can work when people of both parties reach across the aisle for the common good. Today, Massachusetts is leading the way with health insurance for everyone, without a government takeover and without raising taxes.” [Governor Romney Press Release, 4/12/06]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2007

CONTACT:
Kate Bedingfield
 

Chapel Hill, North Carolina - Senator John Edwards released the following statement in response to tonight's Republican presidential debate.

"Tonight, instead of talking about how they would put an end to the Bush era of mismanagement - from the war in Iraq, to the response to Katrina, to fighting terrorism - the Republican candidates embraced its principles.

"Our country doesn't need more of the same; we need bold change to address the great challenges facing us.  Instead of continuing the Bush doctrine of a Global War on Terror, we need a broader approach to fighting terrorism and restoring our moral leadership in the world.  Instead of continuing this disastrous war in Iraq, we need to end the war and bring our troops home.  And instead of continuing economic policies that widen the gap between the haves and the have nots in our country, we need economic policies that strengthen our middle class and lift up Americans living in poverty."

May 4, 2007
 

[I] believe Rudy can win California and the election in 2008. The polls look the way they do for a reason. Rudy's lead is real and last night we saw why …

Legitimately putting California in play for our Republican nominee will be key to what will surely be a hard fought victory for the White House. There should be no doubt, Rudy can do it. He has the right combination of Reaganesque leadership and a federalist approach to social issues.  …

Rudy was right when he said the Republicans would take a more aggressive approach [to] the terrorists’ war against us. … As Rudy said, retreating from the battle at hand isn't the answer. The terrorists are at war with us, whether we like or not. …

Rudy's strong record as a fiscal conservative executive also came through last night. As New York City mayor, Rudy was committed to cutting taxes - in fact, he did it 23 times. … His support to eliminate the death tax, and make permanent those critical tax cuts are at the heart of conservative fiscal policies. …
 

To read the entire article, please visit: http://www.flashreport.org/blog0a.php?postID=2007050409541202&post_offsetP=0&authID=2005081622025042
 

John McCain Was "Big Winner" Of Debate, Straight Talk Express "Has Fresh Plugs And New Tires And Looks To Be Running On Premium Ethanol"

Des Moines Register's David Yepsen: "John McCain was his old self in Thursday night's Republican presidential debate: Feisty, pointed and a straight-talker who wasn't afraid to tell Republican activists things they didn't want to hear. It made him the big winner of the night." (David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "Forceful McCain Talks His Way Straight To Top Of Field," Des Moines Register, 5/4/07)
 

· Yepsen: "Thursday night's debate indicated McCain's Straight Talk Express' has fresh plugs and new tires and looks to be running on premium ethanol." (David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "Forceful McCain Talks His Way Straight To Top Of Field," Des Moines Register, 5/4/07)
 

· Yepsen: "McCain seemed to understand the limitations of the format and took advantage of it. His voice was forceful and his mannerisms aggressive. While Romney looked like the executive, McCain acted the part." (David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "Forceful McCain Talks His Way Straight To Top Of Field," Des Moines Register, 5/4/07)
 

The Washington Post's Howard Kurtz: "John McCain must have had an extra bowl of Wheaties. I've watched him in dozens of situations he's usually discursive and conversational and his delivery has never been punchier. He was tough on Iraq, on Iran, said he would follow Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell, and kept vowing to veto pork." (Howard Kurtz, "Showtime In Simi Valley," The Washington Post, 5/4/07)
 

London Times' Tim Reid: "John McCain last night capped a resurgent week for his presidential campaign with a forceful and combative performance in the first televised debate among the 10 Republican contenders. Mr McCain, who according to new polls has bounced back from a lackluster start and now leads his major rivals in the key early primary states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, appeared more sure footed than the current frontrunner, Rudy Giuliani. But Mr McCain is clearly gaining traction and has recaptured much of the straight talk' persona that marked his 2000 primary battle against Mr Bush." (Tim Reid, "McCain Makes Ground In Republican Face-Off," The [London] Times, 5/4/07)
 

National Journal's Marc Ambinder: "Several conservative bloggers gave McCain the victory. He was, in their eyes, the most credible candidate telling them what they wanted to hear (and even a little of what they didn't)." (National Journal's "On Call" Blog, nationaljournal.com, 5/4/07)
 

Eye On 08 Blog: "McCain won today. Of the big three, he moved forward." (Eye On 08 Blog, "Final Thoughts," www.eyeon08.com, 5/3/07)
 

The Weekly Standard's Fred Barnes: "McCain was forceful on the imperative of winning in Iraq with a new strategy now in place." (Fred Barnes, "The Big Ten," The Weekly Standard, 5/4/07)
 

John McCain's Performance Was "Impressive And Strong"
 

Former Governor Tom Ridge (R-PA): "I certainly think [McCain] turned in a very strong performance. I think there was a lot of energy, a lot of passion. His performance was impressive and strong. He kept on message, established his priorities, continued his courageous stand on lot of these very difficult and controversial issues. I think he did well." (MSNBC's "Post-Debate Analysis," 5/3/07)
 

Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL): "He served over 20 years in the Navy, over 20 years in the Senate. He is a man of experience. He has battled all of these issues throughout his adult life. He knows in this issue of war and peace, he knows what war is like, and he knows the consequences of failure. That is why he wants to get the job done right in Iraq against these Islamic extremists which is the phrase that he used which I think gets at the core of the battle that we are engaged in. I think he did a good job. John McCain, consistent conservative but with passion." (MSNBC's "Tucker Carlson Live," 5/4/07)
 

John McCain "Came Out Firing Last Night" With "Great Energy" And "Passion"
 

Fox News' Gretchen Carlson: "[A] lot of the reviews this morning are saying, hey, McCain came out firing last night. A lot of people saying he had so much energy ..." (Fox News' "Fox And Friends," 5/4/07)
 

Republican Strategist Joe Watkins: "McCain had great energy last night. If you were a McCain supporter and you had dropped off, well, you would be back after seeing his performance last night, because he was right on point with a whole lot of things. He showed his character and the fact that he is not willing to waver when it comes to his stance with regard to Iraq. And he talked about a whole host of other issues as well. I think he was very, very good last night." (MSNBC's "News Live," 5/4/07)
 

Fox News' Carl Cameron: "John McCain came out swinging. ...Last night on Iraq specifically, and the War on Terror, he made it a point to be, undeniably, to be the most aggressive, forceful, sort of committed defender of U.S. and national security, and at one point he went so far as to say he would follow Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell." (Fox News' "America's Newsroom," 5/4/07)
 

The Arizona Republic's Dan Nowicki: "McCain's line about chasing terrorist mastermind Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell' was probably the most-quoted of the evening." (Dan Nowicki, "McCain Central" Blog, www.azcentral.com, Accessed 5/4/07)
 

NBC 7News Boston's Andy Hiller: "McCain proved he still has passion ..." (Andy Hiller, "Hiller Instinct: Republicans Rumble," WHDH-TV Website, www1.whdh.com, 5/3/07)
 

New York Daily News' Michael Goodwin: "John McCain was passionate and vigorous ..." (Michael Goodwin, "Giuliani Is Not-So-Artful Dodger," [New York] Daily News, 5/4/07)
 

The American Spectator's Philip Klein: "McCain came across as experienced and energetic ..." (American Spectator Blog, www.spectator.org, 5/4/07)
 

John McCain "Able To Exhibit His Leadership" With "Honest, Direct, Commanding And Forceful" Performance
 

Sen. Jon Kyl (R-AZ): "[H]e obviously was able to exhibit his leadership, addressing the two key issues of our time: the wasteful Washington spending as well as the necessity of leading in the world on national security matters. In both cases obviously he has the experience and has taken the leadership on those matters, so I thought it was a good way for him to demonstrate to the American people ... exactly why he ought to be elected president." (Fox News' "Fox And Friends," 5/4/07)
 

Human Events' David Ferguson: "Honest, direct, commanding and forceful. I could tell John McCain was in the race to win." (David Ferguson, "And The Winner Is" Human Events' Right Angle Blog, 5/4/07)
 

Gordon Stables, Director Of Debates, USC Debate Squad: "Senator McCain was strong both not only in restoring a fiscal credibility theme to the debate but also on security matters." (MSNBC's' "News Live," 5/4/07)
 

Fox News' Michael Barone: "I think there are several memorable moments. You had John McCain saying he would go to the gates of hell to find our enemies." (Fox News,' "Fox News Live," 5/4/07)
 

San Francisco Chronicle's Carla Mariucci: "McCain, as he has in countless town hall meetings in Iowa and New Hampshire, positioned himself as a seasoned statesman and strove to deliver some straight talk' to voters about the war in Iraq, energy independence and the need to guard against Islamic extremism while stressing his own political credentials. I may not be the youngest candidate in this race, but I am the most prepared' to assume the White House, he said." (Carla Mariucci, "GOP Hopefuls Gather Under Reagan Mantle," San Francisco Chronicle, 5/4/07)
 

The American Spectator's Quin Hillyer: "John McCain did a good job when asked about which Democrat other than Lieberman he would invite into his Cabinet. Rather than go with a politician, McCain talked about going to innovators and business leaders such as ones in Silicon Valley and saying, Now, come serve your country.' He effectively took a political question and raised it above politics, into the realm of patriotism. He has a unique ability to pull that off because it really is genuine from him, straight from his heart." (American Spectator Blog, www.spectator.org, 5/4/07)
 

ARLINGTON, VA – Congressman Ron Paul finished first in the MSNBC poll following the GOP primary debate last night held at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California.  Dr. Paul received 43 percent, beating the second-place finisher by five points, and crushing the rest of the field.

"Last night, Americans met Ron Paul and loved what they heard," said campaign chairman Kent Snyder. "Dr. Paul's message of freedom and limited government resonate with Republicans hungry for a return to their party's core values."

"Ron Paul is the only true conservative in the GOP race.  Americans saw that last night," continued Snyder. "The campaign looks forward to further debates and opportunities so even more Americans will discover Dr. Paul's message of freedom, peace and prosperity."

The Wall Street Journal's Peggy Noonan: "If we view the proceedings in vulgar and reductive Who Won, Who Lost terms, and let's, Mitt Romney won…" (Peggy Noonan, "An Incomplete Field," The Wall Street Journal," 5/4/07)
 

·        Noonan: "The statuesque Mr. Romney had a certain good-natured command, a presidential voice, and a surprising wiliness. He seemed happy to be there, and in the mysterious way that some people seem to dominate, he dominated." (Peggy Noonan, "An Incomplete Field," The Wall Street Journal," 5/4/07)
 

·        Noonan: "He did some light-handed and audience-pleasing Clinton bashing, and was confident on stem-cell research."  (Peggy Noonan, "An Incomplete Field," The Wall Street Journal," 5/4/07)
 

The Washington Post's Chris Cillizza: "Former Gov. Mitt Romney (Mass.) stood out with clear and crisp answers – showing flashes of humor and an ease with the important issues. He sounded authoritative when he talked about Iraq (not an easy task for a one-term governor of Massachusetts) and effectively cast himself – a Mormon – as part of the broad faith community in America." (Chris Cillizza, "Debate Wrap Up," The Washington Post's The Fix, http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/, Posted 5/3/07)
 

Newsweek's Howard Fineman: "I think Mitt Romney came off looking presidential…" (MSNBC's "Post Debate Analysis," 5/3/07)
 

National Review's Kathryn Jean Lopez: "Romney showed himself to be a smart, articulate, optimistic, serious leader. If it was a first impression for anyone watching, as I imagine it might have been for anyone flipping away from The Office for a few minutes, it was a good start." (National Review Website, www.nationalreview.com, Accessed 5/4/07)
 

Mullings' Rich Galen: "Overall I thought Romney did the best. He had command of his positions and articulated them well." (Mullings Website, www.mullings.com/, Accessed 5/4/07)
 

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich: "Governor Romney was very good in talking about health care, where he knows a great deal." (Fox News' "Hannity & Colmes," 5/3/07)
 

New York Daily News' Michael Goodwin: "Romney was very good at turning every answer into a statement of lofty, conservative principle. He spoke of family and marriage and faith and turned a question about 'what don't you like about America?' into a poetic ode to our nation. He came across as sharp and jaunty." (Michael Goodwin, "Giuliani Is Not-So-Artful Dodger," New York Daily News, 5/4/07)
 

The Politico's Roger Simon: "It would be terribly irresponsible to pick a winner of Thursday night's Republican debate. So I will. I think Mitt Romney won." (Roger Simon, "Call Me Irresponsible: I Say Romney Won," The Politico, 5/3/07)
 

·        Simon: "…Mitt Romney achieved almost everything he wanted to achieve. He looked and sounded presidential. He hit his talking points. And voters who knew nothing about him before the debate except that he was a Mormon, came away knowing a lot more." (Roger Simon, "Call Me Irresponsible: I Say Romney Won," The Politico, 5/3/07)
 

·        Simon: "Romney was a man with a plan. He knew what points he wanted to make and he made them." (Roger Simon, "Call Me Irresponsible: I Say Romney Won," The Politico, 5/3/07)
 

MSNBC's Contessa Brewer: "I thought Mitt Romney came off as looking very presidential." (MSNBC's "Tucker Carlson Live," 5/4/07)
 

The Politico's Michael Cornfield And Alan Kelly: "Best playmaker: Mitt Romney. A fluid pace in a frenetic setting. Executive-in-charge. Avoided 'his' religion but talked about faith." (Michael Cornfield and Alan Kelly, "GOP Playmaker's Wrap-up – Our Best And Worst Awards," The Politico, 5/3/07)
 

MSNBC's Joe Scarborough: "I'll tell you what, it looked like Mitt Romney really had a strong introduction to the Republican Party tonight." (MSNBC's "Post Debate Analysis," 5/3/07)
 

·        Scarborough: "I'll tell you what, I got a lot of e-mails throughout this debate from Republicans, conservative Republicans across the country, they were telling me they thought Mitt Romney was the clear winner and I got to tell you Keith, that's the view from a lot of people inside of here right now." (MSNBC's "Post Debate Analysis," 5/3/07)
 

·        Scarborough: "And this really looked like his format. … Some people like Ronald Reagan pop at these type of debate settings. It looked like Mitt Romney pops in these type of settings." (MSNBC's "Post-Debate Analysis," 5/3/07)
 

·        Scarborough: "You're going to find out over the next couple of days that Mitt Romney is the guy that exceeded expectations, and John McCain was a guy that didn't quite meet expectations. A lot of the Republican base may start moving to Mitt Romney. Rudy Giuliani just was a little more flat that people expected, didn't show the type of leadership that people expected him tonight. Of course this is just a debate but certain people pop in the debate, certain people don't. Tonight it was Mitt Romney who seemed to break out of the pack." (MSNBC's "Post-Debate Analysis," 3/3/07)
 

National Review's Jim Geraghty: "Romney had some strong answers, good humor. I'd be surprised if he didn't help himself tonight. Maybe the audience will see what attracted his fans. Clearly, this was a format he seemed at home in." (Jim Geraghty, "Jim's Summary and Wrap-Up," The Hillary Spot On National Review Online, www.nationalreview.com, Posted 5/3/07)
 

National Journal's Marc Ambinder: "Mitt Romney is great with first impressions… He certainly seemed presidential. He flubbed no question. His knowledge was evident." (Marc Ambinder, "The Debate: Post-Spin Analysis," National Journal's On Call, http://hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com/archives/2007/05/the_debate_post.html, Posted 5/4/07)
 

The Politico's Jonathan Martin: "Mitt Romney's aides and advisers were buoyant after the forum. And for some good reason. The former Massachusetts governor, ever handsome and articulate, was poised and smooth for most of the evening. For the thousands (millions?) watching at home who were getting their first taste of Mitt, they had to come away impressed." (Jonathan Martin, "My Take," The Politico, 5/3/07)
 

·        Martin: "When even his opponents acknowledge that he performed well, you know Romney had a pretty good night." (Jonathan Martin, "My Take," The Politico, 5/3/07)
 

New York Sun's Ryan Sager: "If anyone stood out from the other candidates, in terms of looking polished and poised, it was clearly Mr. Romney. He got off some of the best lines of the night… But any casual observer of the debate (were there any non-junkies watching?) would probably have to view him as head-and-shoulders above the others." (Ryan Sager, "Who Won? Who Lost?" New York Sun Politics Blog, www.nysunpolitics.com/blog/2007/05/who-won-who-lost.html, 5/3/07)
 

Dan Riehl: "Romney may be the guy who pulled it out tonight." (Dan Riehl, "McCain Can't Catch A Break," Riehl World View, www.riehlworldview.com/, Posted 5/3/07)
 

John Hinderaker: "If you didn't already know how good Romney is, you would be really impressed by his performance tonight." (John Hinderaker, "Liveblogging The GOP Debate," Power Line Forum, www.plnewsforum.com, Posted 5/3/07)
 

Columnist Kathleen Parker: "And the winner is: Mitt the Good, the Perfect, the Gosh-Darned Smartest of Them All. He was substantive, concise, and humorous, if somewhat over-educated for those who haven't yet read the Cliff Notes on altered nuclear stem cells. His answer on stem-cell research showed that he has delved deeply into the issue…" (National Review Website, www.nationalreview.com, Accessed 5/4/07)
 

Captain's Quarters' Ed Morrissey: "Who won? – Mitt Romney won this debate. He looked relaxed, answered clearly, showed real warmth and a sense of humor, and actually answered the questions asked of him – even the stupid ones, to which I'll return shortly." (Ed Morrissey, "Debate Analysis: Romney Wins," Captain's Quarters Blog, www.captainsquartersblog.com/mt/archives/009874.php, Posted 5/3/07)
 

Townhall's Dean Barnett: "Mitt Romney – Romney was clearly the class of the field. I know, I'm biased, blah, blah, blah. But if you saw the debate, believe your own eyes. Romney has a command of the facts and an effective delivery that must be the envy of the field. As America gets to know him in forums like this (not that I'm hoping there will be other forums precisely like this hideous one – perish that thought), the country will come to understand why Romney has generated such excitement among insiders and people who know him." (Dean Barnett, "A Quickie Debate Recap," Hugh Hewitt, hughhewitt.townhall.com , Posted 5/3/07)
 

CBN's David Brody: "The debate is over and I thought Mitt Romney really came across well. He was comfortable, funny and somewhat free wheeling." (CBN Website, www.cbn.com/CBNnews/151174.aspx, Accessed 5/4/07)
 

National Review's Mark Hemmingway: "It's obvious now that in the first major Republican presidential debate Mitt Romney put in a very strong performance." (Mark Hemingway, "Mitt Romney Can Do Whatever The Heck He Wants," National Review, 5/4/07)
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  May 4, 2007

CONTACT: Kevin Madden

 

The Politico Editor-In-Chief John Harris: CNN'S JOHN ROBERTS: "Hey, who do you think did the best job of selling themselves last night?" JOHN HARRIS, EDITOR IN CHIEF, POLITICO.COM: "Well, I thought Mitt Romney, who's introducing himself to most Americans who are not familiar with him. … I thought he gave a very polished, forceful performance that clearly is going to attract a lot of second notices." (CNN's "American Morning," 5/4/07)
 

National Review's T.J. Walker: "Mitt Romney won Thursday night's debate by every objective standard of style and substance." (T.J. Walker, "Who Won The First Presidential Debate?" National Review, 5/4/07)
 

·        Walker: "Whether it was Romney's genial laugh, his upbeat persona, his non-arrogant confidence, or his complete mastery of head, body, and hand motion, he couldn't have been more at ease if he were attending a backyard family barbecue. Regarding substance, Romney appeared to be the smartest kid in the class without sounding cocky." (T.J. Walker, "Who Won The First Presidential Debate?" National Review, 5/4/07)
 

Time Magazine's Mark Halperin: "Mitt Romney, Grade: A-, Passed his first high-profile test with aplomb. Showed the sunny-side-up optimism, smoothly relaxed demeanor and mechanically thorough preparation that have won over donors and talk show hosts alike. Never rushed his answers or got flustered. Deftly told a Ted Kennedy joke and closed with a stone cold hit on Hillary Clinton/Harry Reid/Nancy Pelosi. Voters getting their first real look at Romney probably liked what they saw." (Time Magazine Website, www.time.com/time/specials/2007/republican_debate/, Accessed 5/4/07)
 

The Wall Street Journal's John Fund: "How did the candidates fare? Mitt Romney made a positive impression on many viewers." (John Fund, Opinion Journal's Political Diary, 5/4/07)
 

·        Fund: "But I'd have to say it was Mitt Romney who came out with the most momentum from the debate. He certainly looked and sounded presidential." (John Fund, Opinion Journal's Political Diary, 5/4/07)
 

U.S. News & World Report's Michael Barone: "I think that the candidate who probably advanced his cause most was probably Mitt Romney. He came into the debate not nearly as well known… He managed to show a sense of command and got into some specifics on major issues like health care." (Fox News' " Fox News Live," 5/4/07)
 

NBC's Meredith Vieira: "A lot of people felt last night he looked and sounded the most presidential of the group." (NBC's "Today Show," 5/4/07)
 

CNN's Jackie Schechner: "A Good portion of conservatives online felt that Romney had an excellent night. They said he was relaxed, he showed warmth he answered the questions well." (CNN's "American Morning," 5/4/07)
 

The Politico's Mike Allen: "From the Spin Room to the Carl's Jr. near the headquarters hotel, The Politico's informal read of the consensus order of finish for last night's GOP Presidential Candidates Debate in the Air Force One Pavilion of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library: 1) Mitt Romney." (Mike Allen, "Politico Playbook: Mitt's Moment," The Politico, 5/4/07)
 

National Journal's Marc Ambinder: "He won new fans with his performance tonight." (Marc Ambinder, "The Debate: Post-Spin Analysis," National Journal's On Call, 5/4/07)
 

Fox News's Gretchen Carlson: "A lot of the bloggers this morning saying that they thought Mitt Romney won this debate." (Fox News's "Fox & Friends," 5/4/07)
 

Slate's John Dickerson: "For a candidate that is still introducing himself to voters, Romney hit that mark as well as a candidate can." (John Dickerson, "The Gipper Debate," Slate, 5/4/07)
 

MSNBC's Dan Gilgoff: "I think to the extent that there was a winner in last night's debate, it actually might have been Governor Romney." (MSNBC's "Live," 5/4/07)
 

The Washington Post's Chris Cillizza: "WINNERS: Mitt Romney: Many viewers were likely getting their first look at the former Massachusetts Governor and he clearly looked up to the job. Romney was engaging, optimistic and telegenic. He generally gave answers that reflected a familiarity with the big issues and used humor effectively…" (Chris Cillizza, " GOP Debate: Winners And Losers," The Washington Post's The Fix, http://blog.washingtonpost.com/thefix/, Posted 5/4/07)
 

Nashua Telegraph Columnist Jennifer Horn: "Without doubt former MA Gov Mitt Romney was the winner by every scale.  He was the most presidential of all, and not just in the way he combed his hair.  He was clear, decisive, firm and unwavering.  He was strong on defense, abortion, immigration, healthcare and the economy.  He was likeable, respectful of the other candidates and set the tone for the entire debate." (Jennifer Horn, "First GOP Debate," Jennifer Horn Online, 5/4/07)
 

·        Horn: "He was, in fact, one of only two or three on the stage who left you with the impression that he could actually be president of the most powerful nation on earth.  There is no question that Gov. Romney has risen to the top of the pack after last night's debate." (Jennifer Horn, "First GOP Debate," Jennifer Horn Online, 5/4/07)
 

CNN's Candy Crowley: "Mitt Romney, who has been trying to get his name out there, certainly showed he could go toe to toe with some of the better-known names, so he may have done himself some good there in his continuing effort to get his name out there…" (CNN's "Live," 5/4/07)
 

National Review's Mark Levin: "Mitt Romney looked the most presidential. He seemed very comfortable responding to questions, including the nutty ones, and came across as a principled conservative." (Mark Levin, "Last Night's Republican Debate," And Another Thing… Blog, http://levin.nationalreview.com/, Posted 5/4/07)
 

Annenberg School Director Of Debate Gordon Stables: "Governor Romney had the best night in terms of introducing himself to a national audience and doing so in a way that was personable but still confident on the issues." (MSNBC's "Live," 5/4/07)
 

The Boston Globe's Scott Helman: "…Mitt Romney, in his national coming-out party of sorts, delivered a largely comfortable, confident performance that left his advisers beaming." (Scott Helman, "Republican Candidates Show Their Differences," The Boston Globe, 5/4/07)
 

Washington, DC - The reviews of the first GOP presidential debate are in and the Democrats are the clear winner. Instead of presenting new ideas, the Republican candidates only offered more of George Bush’s tired and out of touch rhetoric on Iraq and other issues. It’s clear why six in 10 Republicans are unhappy with the Republican field while six in 10 Democrats are excited about their choices. [CBS poll, 4/13/07]

THE REVIEWS ARE IN... Salon Editor Joan Walsh: Democrats Were "The Clear Winner" Of First GOP Debate. "McCain may get points for more "straight talk," but to me he just seemed angry, and he will likely regret his soundbite saying "We're on the right track" in Iraq down the road; Romney is still an empty suit for me, though it was nice to see him embrace his own Massachussetts health-care reform after appearing to run away from it, but otherwise he was a smile and a haircut, (did he remind anyone else of Will Farrell's Ron Burgundy?); Giuliani was wildly uneven, sometimes shaky, sometimes strong, but never presidential, and he couldn't have helped himself with any constituency for his wide range of answers on abortion; none of the second-tier candidates jumped out from the pack. The clear winner: Fred Thompson. And the Democrats." [Salon.com, 5/4/07]

RUDY GIULIANI:

Washington Post's Chris Cilliza: Giuliani Failed to Distinguish Himself From the Other ’08 Candidates. “Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani committed no major blunders but also didn't distinguish himself particularly. He struggled a bit to answer a question on whether it would be a good day if and when Roe vs. Wade was repealed ("It would be ok," he said) and seemed slightly flummoxed on a question about the difference between Sunni and Shia. But, Giuliani repeatedly referenced his time as mayor of New York City and his response to the 9/11 attacks to show he is a leader who gets results. And, he made sure voters and viewers knew he wants to keep America on "offense" in the war on terror. Giuliani came into the debate as the leader in national polling and didn't seem to do anything to jeopardize that standing.” [Washington Post Politics Blog, 5/3/07]

National Review's Jim Geraghty: Giuliani is Going to “Get Whacked” For His Debate Performance. “Giuliani is going to get whacked around a lot for his performance tonight. Clearly the format didn’t help him. I said watching him try to explain the difference between Shia and Sunni was as painful as watching Joe Theismann have his leg broken by Lawrence Taylor back in the 1980s. Rudy’s better than this performance; the question will be whether this really hurt him.” [National Review Online, 5/3/07]

NBC's Chuck Todd: Big Story: “Giuliani’s Tentative Performance.” “Big story of the night: Giuliani's tentative performance. This is almost a carbon copy of last week. The hot buzz candidate (Obama vs. Rudy) is struggling in their debut while the old reliables (Clinton vs. McCain) showed that experience in this format matters.” – NBC Political Director Chuck Todd [MSNBC.com, 5/3/07]

NBC's Chuck Todd: Giuliani “Won’t Give a Straight Answer” on Abortion. “Rudy Giuliani STILL won't give a straight answer on what he thinks about the repeal of Roe; that "OK" is going to be the "OK" heard around the conservative world.” – NBC Political Director Chuck Todd [MSNBC.com, 5/3/07]

New York Daily News: Giuliani Got "Tangled Up" in Abortion Issue. “Rudy Giuliani got tangled up in the hot-button issue of abortion last night, saying in the first GOP presidential debate it would be "okay" if a woman's right to abortion were overturned - then made several attempts to explain himself.” [New York Daily News, 5/4/07]

AP: Giuliani “Hedged” When Asked About Abortion. “But Giuliani, who said he personally hates abortion, hedged when asked about his current position.

‘I think the court has to make that decision and then the country can deal with it,’ he said. ‘We're a federalist system of government and states can make their own decisions.’” [AP, 5/4/07]

New York Daily News' Michael Goodwin: Giuliani “Probably Won’t Be the Front-runner When He Wakes Up.” “John McCain was passionate and vigorous, Mitt Romney was quick and opportunistic and Rudy Giuliani looked uncomfortable and dodgy on the key question of abortion. He probably won't be the front-runner when he wakes up this morning, and that means the Republican race is up for grabs.” [New York Daily News, 5/4/07]

JOHN MCCAIN:

National Review's Byron York: John McCain Didn’t Look So Good On TV. “The transcript does not show the strange little smile McCain made after he said 'gates of hell.' Maybe he was relishing the prospect of getting bin Laden. Maybe he just liked saying 'gates of hell' in a nationally televised political debate. In any event, like much of McCain’s performance Thursday night, it looked better in print than on TV.” [National Review, 5/4/07] [National Review, 5/4/07]

Politico: John McCain was the “Worst Playmaker.” “Worst Playmaker: John McCain. More chances than most to convert. More focused on his delivery...I'm passionate, dammit...than the message itself.” [Politico, 5/3/07]

Politico's Jonathan Martin: McCain was “Awkward” and “Uneven.” “The Arizona senator got off to an uneven start. It wasn’t so much his answers as it was his demeanor. He looked to be scowling and squinting as he gave his responses to national security-related questions. And his odd promise to kill and then follow Osama bin Laden to the 'gates of hell' was made even more awkward when he broke into a broad smile upon saying ‘hell.’” [Jonathan Martin Blog, Politico, 5/3/07]

MITT ROMNEY:

Rolling Stone: Move Romney to the Third Tier. “He sure looked pissed at the beginning when Chris Matthews took a little too much pleasure in pointing out the fact he’d drawn the far left position on the stage. And the questions about just about everything early on put him on the defensive, such that he couldn’t even slam a slow pitch softball: His mindless gushing about the great heart of the American people was saccharin to the point of distasteful. If he didn’t have so much cash, you’d have to put him in the third tier at this point.” [Rolling Stone’s National Affairs Daily, 5/4/07]

Washington Post's Chris Cilliza: Romney Rang "False." “One note rang false, however. Romney seemed a bit too keen to make up for his previous comment that the government should not move 'heaven and earth' to catch Osama bin-Laden. 'He is going to pay and he will die,' Romney said. ...Okay, we get it.” [Washington Post’s Political Blog, 5/3/07]

The Atlantic's Andrew Sullivan: Romney Was “Smarmy.” “I have to say I found Romney smarmy beyond even my expectations. The man will obviously say and do anything to get power or please a crowd. His low-point: ‘Gosh, I love America.’ Really?” [Andrew Sullivan, The Atlantic Online, 5/3/07]

Howard Fineman: Romney Was “Calculated.” On MSNBC following the debate, Howard Fineman said Romney was “a little too calculated and a little too fine in the cuts that he was making on the issues, on stem cell research for example, raising a phrase that most Americans have never heard of.” [MSNBC, 5/3/07]

National Review: Romney Looks Like He’s Acting. “I'm sorry but Romney still comes across like a well-cast actor in a movie of the week about a guy running for president.” [National Review’s The Corner, 5/3/07]