The first presidential debate for the 2012 election occurred this past Wednesday in Denver, Colorado. This debate gave both President Obama and Governor Mitt Romney an opportunity to present arguments to independents and undecided voters in a face-to-face debate. Key topics of discussion were the economy, health care, and the size of government.
With regard to the economy, President Obama believes that the rich should pay more taxes, as he plans to focus more on helping the middle class. He also said that he would cut America’s defense budget. Romney believes that there should be a graduated income tax. He does not believe in cutting America’s defense budget. Furthermore, he does not believe in taxing the rich, as he wants the rich to continue to hire those who need jobs.
On the subject of healthcare, Obama said that he would try to give healthcare to those who need it. He advocated for the healthcare forms that he has been pushing for since the beginning of his presidency. Romney also wants to implement a healthcare plan, and repeal “Obamacare.” His idea for healthcare is slightly different from Obama’s, as it would be altered from state to state. Even though the nominees disagree on many policies, they are in agreement when it comes to lowering the cost of health care in consideration of the American public.
Although both candidates have different views on how to lead America, they did agree on a few things. They agreed on getting rid of tax loopholes and trying their best to bring back companies to the United States. They also would like to lower the number of people who receive food stamps as well as the unemployment rate.
As their views differ in many ways, but overlap on certain aspects, the outcome of the upcoming election is still unpredictable. Each candidate continues to explain their ideas for America. As a result of the last debate, Romney seems to have won the upper hand with his enthusiasm versus Obama’s nervous and laid back approach. However, the question is whether or not the majority of the public will agree to those ideas. The answer is still undetermined, yet can be further anticipated at the upcoming vice-presidential debate, occurring this Thursday, October 11th.