CLASH OF THE TITANS: Obama and Clinton Debate In Austin

February 21, 2008 · Filed Under Barack Obama, Election 2008, Hillary Clinton, Politics

Democratic rivals Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama will face off tonight in Austin, TX. Interested parties can tune into CNN at 8 PM ET (7PM if you live in TX) to watch it live!

Here’s what the Houston Chronicle says about tonight’s debate:

WASHINGTON — Hillary Rodham Clinton, reeling from 10 consecutive defeats and slipping further behind Barack Obama in the delegate count, needs to do something to reverse the front-runner’s momentum. Her campaign strategists think they have just the solution: tonight’s debate in Austin.

With less than two weeks before pivotal primaries in Texas and Ohio, Clinton campaign officials are counting on landing a memorable zinger or forcing an Obama gaffe that could change the dynamic of the presidential race.

“Debates can turn elections,” said Ross Ramsey, editor of Texas Weekly, a nonpartisan political journal. “A front-runner who stumbles can be overtaken, and a candidate who’s trying to catch up — or keep up — can regain ground. A big moment by either candidate will get played over and over until everybody knows about it.”

Tonight’s nationally televised session at the University of Texas is the only face-to-face encounter between Clinton and Obama before Texans go to the polls on March 4. The former first lady, a skilled debater dating to her time as captain of the Wellesley College debate team, has proposed weekly debates. But the Illinois senator, whose oratorical skills are showcased most effectively in stadium-sized events, has accepted only two debate invitations.

“I don’t think it’s hyperbole to say that she has to do very, very well in an arena that favors her, or her candidacy is going to be on the ropes,” said Harris County Democratic Chairman Gerald Birnberg.

When it comes to the Clinton machine it’s never a good idea to start writing their political obituary too early, but barring another questionable outburst from Michelle Obama it looks like Barack Obama pretty much has this locked up.

Democrats have made it clear that their only criteria for President is the ability to deliver soaring oratory (borrowed or otherwise).

After the primary is over and we get into the general election it will be interesting to see if ~~Jesus~~ Obama has any substance behind all the lofty speeches and inspirational rhetoric.

-Chris Jones