by Amy Kaufman
Last night’s CNBC sponsored Republican debate was one for the books. The event was simultaneously bland, memorable, hostile and reserved. Although the eight presidential hopefuls gathered to discuss economic issues including bailouts, the housing crisis, healthcare and tax policy, audience members are more likely to remember the evening’s personal gaffes and attacks above candidates’ substantive responses.
The tone of the event was tense from the start, as moderators Jim Kramer and Maria Bartiromo did little to conceal their anti-Republican sentiments. Although the debate was meant to address economic issues, approximately 20 minutes into the debate Bartiromo singled out businessman Herman Cain (R-GA) to discuss the recent allegations against him, questioning his character and leadership. The audience quickly booed the CNBC moderator for her surly approach, but Cain maintained his composure while responding to the ‘character assassination.’ Cain directly addressed the controversy circling his campaign in his assertion that, “The American people deserve better than someone being tried in the court of public opinion based on unfounded accusations.” His answer was well received as audience members interrupted Cain’s defense with booming applause, signifying continued support from his base.
Moderators then turned to former Governor Mitt Romney (R-MA) to pose a hypothetical situation, asking if he would allow Herman Cain to remain on staff if he bought Cain’s company. Romney smoothly sidestepped the question saying, “Herman Cain is the person to respond to these questions.” The former Governor’s answer, or lack there of, represented his general approach towards the event, in which he largely remained above the fray and avoided directly engaging fellow participants.
The most memorable moment of the evening, and possibly one of the most incredulous in the history of primary debates, occurred when Governor Rick 
Perry (R-TX) was unable to name the third government agency he vowed to abolish if elected. The Governor froze like a deer in headlights as moderators pressed for the name of the agency, to which a visibly mortified Perry admitted, “I cannot [remember] – ooops.” Fellow statesman and participant Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX) could be seen smirking and whispering for more extensive cuts to federal agencies as Perry struggled to recover from his senior moment.
Unfortunately, substantive policy discussion was all but an after thought as moderators did little to redirect the conversation following Cain and Perry’s remarks. However, the event was one of the few instances where all eight candidates made an effort to provide policy details beyond their tried and tested catchphrases. Participants expressed varying sentiments on the housing crisis and tax policy, while maintaining similar positions on how to repeal and replace healthcare.
Former Speaker Gingrich (R-GA) gave his strongest performance yet, as he laid out detailed policy solutions and delivered a few witty one-liners. However, few believe Gingrich’s recent rise in the polls will be enough to defeat Mitt Romney. Cain also performed well, but his address was not enough to neutralize the controversy surrounding his campaign. Although Congressman Ron Paul consistently delivers policy-oriented solutions, he remains unable to break through as a powerhouse candidate capable of defeating President Obama. Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-MN), former Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA) and former Governor Jon Huntsman (R-UT) generally fell by the wayside, as each provided satisfactory answers lacking pizzazz.
With every debate, Romney’s expected nomination seems that much more imminent. As usual he appeared to be the evening’s victor, but more so by default than through a winning performance. The former Governor’s neutral approach has allowed him to avoid any serious gaffes or attacks from fellow contenders, but his refusal to assert aggression alongside his opaque retorts has lent to a somewhat spineless image for the smooth-talking businessman.
With just two months left to influence voters before primary season, the extensive Republican presidential debate series is a continual reminder that sadly, of the top eight GOP presidential contenders, not a single one is capable of generating consolidated enthusiasm, leaving voters lukewarm about the prospects for 2012.
Established in 1995, the Georgetown Public Policy Review is the McCourt School of Public Policy’s nonpartisan, graduate student-run publication. Our mission is to provide an outlet for innovative new thinkers and established policymakers to offer perspectives on the politics and policies that shape our nation and our world.