Barack Obama could rue his no-debate decision

Might Barack Obama come to regret his decision to pass on a debate with Hillary Clinton prior to Tuesday's primaries in North Carolina and Indiana?

Yes, there have already been 21 such encounters. But we raise the question because, even as the tumult surrounding the Rev. Jeremiah Wright sucked up much of the campaign oxygen this week, a real, honest-to-goodness policy difference surfaced between the two Democratic presidential contenders (as we've noted before, there have been precious few such splits). And if expert opinion counts for anything, Obama could use a direct face-off with Clinton to make a powerful case against her call for a summer suspension of the federal gasoline tax.

Obama, when not consumed with putting as much space as possible between himself and Wright, has scoffed at the proposal -- also embraced by Republican John McCain -- as a gimmick that would save the average driver about half a tank of gas over the three-month period.

"This isn't an idea designed to get you through the summer, it's designed to get them through an election," Obama said in North Carolina earlier this week.

Meanwhile, the suggestion -- which hasn't a ghost of a chance of being enacted ...

... by Congress -- is getting roundly panned by virtually everyone taking a serious look at it.

Check out these editorials in the L.A. Times, the N.Y. Times and, for the view from the heartland, the Cincinnati Enquirer.

A front-page story in today's Washington Post cast a wide net and reported that "a growing chorus" viewed the gas-tax suspension plan as "ineffective and shortsighted."

The entire piece can be read here, but here are some comments that leapt out at us.

Said professor N. Gregory Mankiw of Harvard University: "What you learn in Economics 101 is that if producers can't produce much more, when you cut the tax on that good the tax is kept ... by the suppliers and is not passed on to consumers."

And Leonard Burman, a tax policy heavyweight at the Brookings Institution think tank, is withering in his critique of Clinton's additional push for a windfall-profits tax on oil companies to guard against them simply pocketing the relief provided by a gas-tax break. He termed the dual proposal "utterly incoherent," telling the Post it would only intensify supply problems by discouraging oil exploration.

Summed up Burman: "So a policy intended to lower prices, but which won't do that, will be offset with a policy that's likely to raise prices over the long term."

Sounds like a pretty effective sound-bite Obama could offer on a debate stage.

-- Don Frederick

Photo: AP

 

Comments

[Phil Douglas]

Especially as it appears Senator Clinton has been dissembling again -- about the closure of a factory in Indiana, jobs to China, and her husband's role in that. Seems she's been blaming President Bush for President Clinton's failing.

[Paula Ross]

Obama is on track. He's talking about his plan to
change the gas tax, not with a gimmic fix,but with
substantial change that includes the people of this
country to participate. Thank You Barack for showing
us what real change can do..Let's hope that Clinton
stops her pandering soon. The only way for this to
happen is when she is gone. And that will happen soon.

[old91A10]

Go Hillary! Three recent flips to you in my family -- final straws: Obama is afraid to debate. Dean won't shut up. Rezko doesn't wash.

With regard to Rezko, as with Wright, etc., I am surprised that Obama's duplicity passes with little remark. What's he up to, six or seven different versions? The Obamaniacs get whiplash with every turn in the tales -- at this time, they are exculpatory and he is accusatory -- they zigged while he zagged.

The fix for Obama continues. Pols and Media -- Dean, et al. Unctuous. Ugh! There rationale? Obama has nearly half the votes, while Clinton only has nearly half the votes. Huh?

Reality check on primary votes and delegates:
http://www.mydd.com/story/2008/4/23/102017/841

Keep your eye on the Electoral College.

[Joe]

Ridiculous! It's elitist to bring economics into this! Who the hell knows anything about all those crazy numbers?

We HAVE to go with the more likable candidate! Who cares if they're dumber? I mean, that's why we elected Bush, right?

Just think if we'd gone with Gore! We'd have a Nobel Prize winner instead. And who wants that kind of egghead representing their country, instead of a man like Bush?

[Whatever]

A full debate is hardly necessary to cover a single new policy difference. At best we'd get five minutes of "gas tax" time with the 35 minutes of "Reverend Wright" time.

[John B Sheffiield]

I very much doubt that anyone except Hillary has regrets about their being no further TV Debates before Tuesday's vote, it is quite clear we have had quite sufficient.

The Delegate lead is now down to 18 and in days it is clear that will be down to single digits. Today the thought and comments from Joe J Andrews in changing his Endorsement to Senator Barack Obama echoes the feelings of so many Democrats and Voters.

What is needed now is for such as John Edwards and Al Gore to come out and fully back Barack Obama before Tuesday, so the Party can come together and start to Unite again, It would be even better if Hillary R Clinton could put Her Party first before ambition and without any further delay also offer full unconditional support and backing to BARACK OBAMA as The Democratic nomination, then Hillary will be respected for her actions and we can prepare to defeat McCain and take back The White House in November

[BIG WIG]

That is not true, she has her people set up to sabotage him.

No debate. He debated already.

Start singing please fat lady- oh you don't know the song.

[Young Atheart]

"Clinton's additional push for a windfall-profits tax on oil companies to guard against them simply pocketing the relief provided by a gas-tax break"

How does hurting big oil, help the middle-class? Tax penalties OR relief on Big Oil should be aimed at alternative energy - that is what Obama's proposal does.

[drmats]

One again another true American showed the courage to stand up and raised his voice in this historic time. Thank you Joe Andrew, u are the real American once again, loudly says, we don't want to our future to in peril.
All this lobbyist, big corporate in Washington are use their money power, and media support to distract average people from the real issues we are facing
They want Obama to be out from race coz, they always want to their greedy interest to make money and power by imposing hard ships in 99.9% Americans here
look around the real facts , we are losing jobs every day, we borrowing Chinese money and spending for oil and war , our kids are dropping from school , majority Americans suffering without health care even people with insurance , how much money these drug companies are staling and this corporate medical lobbies
am a doctor , I can see a lot , lot people , with so much illness , not taking any medication or abusing with over the counter , non prescription meds , who is responsible for this , we suffering in the world’s richest , mighty nation and less than 1% populated politicians’ and lobbyist enjoying all the benefits in our country
They want Obama to be not president they want either Hillary or McCain to be next president, coz both are part of their stakes.
Both just faking the truth and facts, and just want to president and want more rich
How many people know how much their income , John maccians wife is has share in profits of Budweiser bear company , Clintons made 109 $ mill9ons last 6 yrs BY “ PREACIHING” around the world
These are the issues we have to open our eyes to see , how our future will be, if we are in dept, our kids don’t go school and college, our industries dying, paying millions for oil , other countries like India and china are growing in every field . Not a Psycho Jermaya right , or wearing a pin , is our issue,
I don’t say Obama is perfect, he never be, no one in our country too, but I strongly believe, lot of open heart people love our country , love our grandparents, parents and our kids , and uphold our values , will stood up and start this movement and says enough is enough , we need a leader ship once again , lead our country as the leader of the world to solve all our problems, and rest of the worlds survival.
Yesterday, how many watch Michele moor, talking in CNN, he is he is a true American, shows courage to talk loudly the truth . plz watch that interview if u have chance,
I pray every day plz God, keep him (OBAMA) safe and give courage to fight against all these distractions haunting him from all sides, I was Hillary supporter, coz I like Bills time, but now they are really revealed How ridiculous politicians they are to d the same old damage to our country
Did any media discussing my republican and maccain attacking Obama only , not Clinton, they want her to be the nominee , and not Obama, coz they know all people will rally behind him when he get nomination, so now they pending all their , ways to defeat him and look for an easy win against Hillary
Any way propagate the message of real fact among all fellow Americans not fall in this cheating taps , look around and see the real fact and vote , for Obama, Indiana and North Carolina we are looking forward to your courage to raise ur voice and end this drama and distraction and march forward to our bright future

[highwayscribery]

This is something rather hypothetical with a headline not very well matched to the content beneath it.

At my blog I lament the media's continued miserable performance in covering Obama.

http://highwayscribery.blogspot.com/2008_05_01_archive.html#2299009105841879584

[Obamabot]

To Hilleritas and McCainites, please let us rally around Barak now, no more hate. He must do that which every politician must do. But with our support, he will be elected President. Perhaps then a serious discussion on reparations for our past sins of slavery and Jim Crow laws can begin. Once America has paid for it past mistakes by voting for Obama, and the Reparations checks are sent out, then the healing and acceptance of the majority can be considered by the minority. This is the "Change we can believe in!" We paid the Japanese who were interred in concentration camps during WW2, $20,000 each, for 400 plus years of slavery and racism, much more will be required. And finally, Obama is smarter than clinton, so no more so called "debates" where "typical white people" ask bitter questions about guns and religion!

[jb bauer]

An article in today's Wall Street Journal reveals an important fact, namely, that not one of the people who have come out to recommend Obama came to his defense this week. What's with the big silence if they really support him??

[Steve]

Obamabot,

Reparations were paid directly to the Japanese people interned. No matter how wrong slavery and legal segregation were that is past; you are a direct victim. Of course, racial discrimination still exists but many blacks have risen above the current and past effects of racism. Healing begins within. Obama is an example of one who has risen above poverty and discrimination by his own tenacity. Those with excuses for their lot won't be satisfied by reparations; you'll always have excuses for your lack of advancement. Reparations will never happen, so get over it.

[Eric]

Are these the same economists that aren't really sure if we're in a recession yet? The same economists that did not predict the subprime debacle? Yeah, their advice is great. I was taught not to disagree with an idea unless you had a better. I don't see anyone else offering short term fixes for the rising gas prices. Anyone?

[JOE BENTO]

NO RUE in not dealing with her for the 22nd time. she is a good debater OK we will give her that but sh is a liar and the consumate pandering politician. the gas tax break is the latest salvo from her bend the truth team/ The American electorate is not sheep and prefers truth and real answers to our problems. Barack Obama will provide leadership and integrity at a time when it is sorely needed. She does not get to set the agenda now or anytime in the future. She believes herself to be entitled and is surprised that her campaign team dropped the ball. the underdog from nowhere ha the most votes, the most delegates, won the most contests and is bringing over the educated super delegates by the day. Game Set Match. NO RUE in any of this except maybe in the Clinton camp where they wished he had blundered. Talk up your girl if yoy ike Hillariyites but it is our candidate Barak Obama who will take the Democratic party banner to victory in November.

[Tom J]

Obamabot, I hope Rush Limbaugh is paying you well for selling out!

For actual voters, make a list of actual economists each of the presidential candidates has on his/her team. That should clarify why Clinton and McCain agree on this ridiculous 'scheme', and Obama does not.

Vote for the responsible adult. That would be Obama.

[Steve]

You mention that the windfall profits tax is "Clinton's additional push," but how could you fail to mention that such a tax has also being pushed by Obama in his current campaign?

[loc loc]

OBAMA for President. Indiana and NorthCarolina. Don`t let us down. We have a chance come may 6, to make history. VOTE for Obama , HE IS THE BEST THING THAT CAN HAPPEN TO THE U.S NOW !!!

[democritus]

I regret so much that Obama has turned down what occured to me as a magical opportunity for him to right all the wrongs done to him in the last debate. Divine grace comes not more than this; but Obama has turned it down. Mrs Clinton voluntarily gave him the rope to hang her but he declined. I am so full of regret.

[thinkresults]

Total disconnect on the Headline v. the Content. It shows the forces of status quo are making their last stand this week to twist any advantage into a disadvantage.

The reality is that the daily meeting with the people of both states, ads, articles, editorials, talk shows pointing out the horrific pandering and vauous policies of McClinton are much more effective in getting this message out than what has passed for debates lately.

[gerald clough]

they will be called back wages with interest payable from 1600 onward, not reparations....

[TEACHER]

WHY SHOULD HE GIVE IN TO HER "BULLYING" TACTICS ONCE AGAIN? THE TIME SHOULD BE SPENT WITH THE
VOTERS WHO ARE VOTING IN THE PRIMARIES IN THEIR OWN STATES.

I DREAD IF SHE GETS THE NOMINATION AS THE NASTINESS FROM HER WILL BECOME UNBEARABLE!

I THINK HE SHOWS WISDOM AND TRUST IN THE VOTERS BY NOT GIVING IN TO HER "BULLYING". I HOPE HE STANDS HIS GROUND. NOT CAVING TO UNDUE PRESSURE IS A GOOD PRESIDENTIAL QUALITY. OUR COUNTRY NEEDS LESS BULLYING AND MORE CIVILITY.

[RosaCA]

Hey, take a look. The last " debate" was a total waster of time. Flag pins and the like OMG

[Toby]

No Obama made the Wright choice (sorry but get use to it, he should have denounced him BEFORE the campaign even started).

Obama is a terrible debater. Where with Hillary, it's one of her strong suits.

Now Obama could in theory right a few wrong ships with a debate this weekend...but he just doesn't have the strength (read: experience) in debating yet to be able to actually do it.

Maybe in 4 years...but not today.

[Elizabeth Gilmore]

I watched Mrs. Clinton pander to Bill O'Reilly on Fox last night and was simply appalled at her hubris. She certainly sounded like a Republican when she said,

" Rich people- God bless us..." I thought she was "the girl from Scranton." When in Rome do as the romans, I guess.

I lost all respect for her when during the last debate, totally out of context, she slipped in the words, " Farrakhan." and " Hamas," as if she was determined to use the tactics of "the vast right wing conspiracy" that dogged Bill during his philandering years in the White House. Say anything, do anything to destroy your opponent, and be the last one standing. But at what cost to the Democratic Party? I don't think the Clintons care.

I respect Senator Obama for not agreeing to mud wrestle Mrs. Clinton in another made for TV spectacle.

He, indeed, needs to get out among regular people where he does very well, and avoid the gotcha gimmicks of the "kitchen sink" strategy. It's time for the Democratic Party to come together and face the challenge of Bush 3. Anything else will just be divisive and destructive to the national party.

[Rob]

Obamabot--

You can't be serious about reparations and voting for Obama to cleanse for past sins of this country. If that's the case, you better speak with Native Americans (who should have first dibs at being President); Hispanic Americans (2nd dibs); the Irish who were taken off boats and given a rifle to fight; the Irish and Chinese who connected the East-West; and the list goes on and on. What my ancestor may or may have not done 100+ years ago is no reason to vote for a person today.

[Jim]

Obama supporters are sooo brave to come out and be gay together.

[J Pat]

You people have it so right! My goodness you are smart! Everyone is trying to drag down Obama because how easily the republicans have always beaten the Clintons.

Just ask President Dole, Senator Guilliani and Speaker Livingston.

[SPENCER]

Yeah, right. We got so much out of that last debate; maybe we can find out about that important flag lapel pin controversy that supersedes 2 wars and health care.

[cafenitro]

Obama is just a big chicken.

[Voters Want to Know]

Barack is running scared, as he should be.

Finally the "holier than thou" approach is starting to backlash on Obama because in the end it's about details, not rhetoric.

Obama is perhaps the greatest schmoozer since the tactics our beloved George W. and his administration used to trick 70 percent of the government and the American people into starting the war with IIraq.

Real change begins with Universal Health Care, and taking care of the Working Class.

Obama is a windsock, which way is the wind blowing today mr flip-flopper?

[No Koolaid]

People should realize that they DON'T OWE OBAMA ANYTHING, he is the one trying to be the President.

Get your money's worth, get off the kool aid with this shammer Obama!!

[cdl]

Obamanations,
Quit defending Barack's turtle like actions, you know, pull your head inside your shell, peeking out when only necessary or, prodded by your campaign. Oops, was he suppose to really distance himself from Wright? What about Rezko? What about 20 yrs. of listening to a pastor who consistently preached the sins of every person who is white against every person who is black. Waaaaaaa.
He is a coward for not facing down an opponent in an honest manner, He wouldn't even have a moderator handing him a pillow. He is a stumbler, a bumbler, and couldn't talk his way out of a sock.
This contest is not destroying the Dem Party, far from it. Bring it on Obama,....if you can. Which I doubt.

[Jac]

Why, would anyone want to have a person that has spent the last 20 years listening to Rev. Wright preach about how much people should hate the goverment and this Country. If you listen to all his preachings including the one from 2003, which by the way is 5 years ago, there is no way you could sit in that church for all those years and not hate this country and white people. An African American this evening on Glenn Beck said that the only reason Obama went to that church in the beginning was because he thought he needed to be more black and to start gathering more support in the African American community. I listen to Rev Wright for about 10 mins and started to get a headache. I'm sorry if he get this nomination we will be sorry!

[Ronnn]

This is Mayor Bloomberg's take on a gas tax holiday "It's about the dumbest thing I've heard in an awful long time, from an economic point of view. We're trying to discourage people from driving and we're trying to end our energy dependence ... and we're trying to have more money to build infrastructure"

This women will always do what is best for her. No loyalty to party or country.

[Patrick Knif]

Barack Obama accept the free-style debate? Not on your life--his manufactured image gets damaged when embarrassing facts about his history, deceit, buddies, etc., are disclosed & discussed. AND he knows he'd lose again.

[factsonly]

Obama is terrified at the very idea of a free-style debate with Clinton. Without a written speech (written by a pro, not him), he's proved that he's clueless, so his high-paid campaign managers & he know he'd lose this debate just as he lost the last one.
Even worse, it's damaging to his carefully manufactured image when embarrassing facts get disclosed & discussed.
So they know better than to let Obama face Clinton in a a free-styler. It's much safer for them to just plaster ads all over tv, newspapers--everywhere you look or go.

[Patrick Knif]

At my house Hillary Clinton has our vote because we know she'll steer us back to a sound economy without wars, with good employment, the same health care plan that Congress members enjoy, gas & electricity we can afford, no more out-sourcing, & an income tax that's fair to us--the working class--instead of favoring the wealthy. We trust Clinton. For my family it's Clinton all the way & we're supporting her every way we can, including campaign contributions whenever we can--it's our investment in our future.

[mediahack]

Zapruder film analysis of Obama’s San Francisco remarks.
Watch the video again, listen carefully.

Is he making fun of himself? If so, here's the punch line: “I have a message for people in rural America as a 46 year old black man named Barrack Obama”.
silence , (cue crickets) ... The joke doesn’t work , UNLESS, the underlining understanding between Barrack and his supporters is "rural folks are backward, and maybe even a little bigoted",(wink wink, nudge nudge) then the punch line works. ( listen for the first laugh). Then the follow up line gets a bigger chortle with “then that adds another layer of scepticism"

Main Stream Media have already written the story line and this little insight of Obama doesn't fit. This video clip has not appeared on any network or cable TV news programs. Not once.

I’m posting this video clip link, and asking the question, what's so funny?
Let others make up their minds.

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0408/Video_from_San_Francisco.html

[hinnis]

Although in some quarters, Obama is paying a price for the lack of courage on his part evidenced by his refusal to debate Hillary Clinton one-on-one in an un-moderated debate, it was probably the better move for him, politically. Such a debate would only further underscore his woeful lack of knowledge on important issues as compared to that of Sen. Clinton, and his inability to match her in such a setting would only serve to undermine his reputation as a good speaker, not to mention his claims of "experience" and "judgment." No, Obama is much better off sticking with his teleprompter stump speeches, and outspending Hillary Clinton 3 or 4 to one on advertisements. At least that way, he is unlikely to make any more mistakes which give the voters a more realistic insight into this agent of "change" and "hope."

[Victoria_G1968]

OMG!

Here's what hillary clinton thinks about Indiana and most likely the rest of America...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-MzByUHIzw&feature=email

Don't vote for hillary...she's a LIAR and has NO MORE experience being in the president’s office than, let’s say, Bush's wife.