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Republican presidential debate: CNN hosts Trump, Bush and more – live Republican presidential debate: CNN hosts Trump, Bush and more – live
(35 minutes later)
1.13am BST01:13
Introductions. Rand Paul first. He says he’s an eye surgeon from Kentucky who spends his days defending the Constitution.
Mike Huckabee, the former Arkansas governor, says that “none of us onstage are socialists” and “none of us are under investigation by the FBI.”
Applause line, that.
1.11am BST01:11
Big noise in the room as the main event gets going. Loud whistling and standing applause. Even the candidates start to applaud. Good times tonight in Simi Valley.
1.09am BST01:09
1.07am BST01:07
The top-tier debate
We’re moments away from the main event, an 11-sided die of ambition, fear and courage, rolled by the hand of god, played tonight by CNN anchor Jake Tapper.
Tom McCarthy here in the room in Simi Valley, California, with Guardian West Coast correspondent Rory Carroll and our team of analysts and commentators pitching in from points distant.
It is a gorgeous evening in California, with beautiful late-afternoon views down the valley from the Ronald Reagan library just now beginning to take on streaks of shadow.
We’re going to be chasing the conversation, but the challenge we put to you is to help us break through it, to the deeper dynamics of the race.
The field may shrink after tonight, as more candidates are faced with numbers that won’t move or donors that won’t budge. Pitch in below the line and tell us who’s in, who’s out, and who was best at making the second presidential debate count.
1.03am BST01:03
Adam Gabbatt
Adam Gabbatt writes:
There was an elephant in the room during the pre-debate debate. Or at least there was one lurking outside it: a big, noisy, weird-haired elephant called Donald Trump.
The four candidates’ opening remarks were dominated by Trump, who is leading in the polls. Bobby Jindal was the first one to stick it to him. Jindal “doesn’t have a reality TV show”, he said. This would have been more effective if Trump still had one – his “Mexican rapists” obsession brought an end to his NBC career earlier this summer.
Jindal went back for more a little later. “He’s a narcissist who only believes in himself!” the Louisiana governor declared of Trump.
Rick Santorum said the candidates shouldn’t be criticising each other. But no one listened. Former New York governor George Pataki continued the beating. He pointed out that Donald Trump bankrupted casinos in Atlantic City. (In Trump’s defence he it was actually only corporate bankruptcy he filed for. And he has only filed for it four times.)
There was a lull in the middle where everyone stopped having a go at Trump and talked about a homophobic woman. But then the criticism came roaring back. Graham said “our leading candidate got his foreign policy from watching television”. Jindal reminded everyone that he had once called Trump an “egomaniac”. It was great. And now we get to see Trump slagged off to his face!
1.01am BST01:01
Watching Twitter so you don’t have to, Nicky Woolf and Kayla Epstein report on how the Republicans on the big stage have been preparing to debate today:
The first Republican debate in August had a record-breaking 24 million viewers, and CNN’s debate tonight is set to reach even more people. For a prospective presidential candidate, how can a candidate prepare for such intense pressure?
Your mind must be clear; your heart light.
Many of the candidates found ways of achieving the level of zen required for a barnstorming debate performance – some more peculiar than others.
Donald Trump has reportedly been reading up on his foreign policy. Two weeks ago he was caught out on the Hugh Hewitt show mistaking ‘Quds’ for ‘Kurds’. Hewitt is asking questions of all the candidates tonight, so Trump is leaving nothing to chance.
Trump camp says he has been prepping for this debate and foreign policy is a focus. #nbc2016
Meanwhile, Jeb Bush, whose plummet in the polls has been mirrored by Trump’s inexorable rise, took to heart to maxim ‘know thy enemy’. That can mean only one thing: study his bombastic rival in his natural habitat ...
In the Snapchat GOP Debate story: @JebBush watching The Apprentice in debate prep @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/sTFwcpmk3c
For Kentucky senator Rand Paul, there is, of course, only one way to reach competitive political rhetoric nirvana. Yes: printing out the 80,000-page US federal tax code, putting it into boxes, and then shooting it with a modified AR-15 assault rifle.
He also took the time to hang out with some Second Amendment fans.
After shooting the tax code @RandPaul poses with some gun enthusiasts pic.twitter.com/3PExI5jHuR
Ben Carson, meanwhile, had time to drop in for a quick schmooze in the spin room at the Reagan Library.
@RealBenCarson stops by the press filing room before the debate to the surprise of all. pic.twitter.com/u7BEMTnmJg
Many of the candidates needed to pace the stage and familiarise themselves with their podiums.
Just finished my walkthrough of tonight’s stage. Tune in at 8:00 p.m. ET! #Carly2016 #CNNDebate pic.twitter.com/pELwM1azkc
Got my game face on! Ready to have some fun tonight at the #CNNDebate. -John pic.twitter.com/sztZQwJ0AD
Lindsey Graham, readying himself to defend his proposition of putting American boots on the ground in Syria, knows that an army always marches on its stomach. For him, that means chicken nuggets and ’slaw.
For those curious:: Graham's pre-debate menu today was Chick-fil-A chicken nuggets and cole slaw
On the opposite end of the scale, Wisconsin governor Scott Walker knew that a healthy body means a healthy debate.
Enjoying my pre #GOPdebate ritual. Grabbing a quick jog before tonight's #CNNdebate - SW #Walker16 pic.twitter.com/DiCXjSUIC0
Only time will tell whose strategy proves best.
12.53am BST00:53
As we wait for the main event, here are the full names and professional backgrounds of the 11 candidates participating. They are, in alphabetical order:
CNN's #GOPDebate is free 3 hour ad for Democratic party. Please don't tell Republicans, or they cancel it. #CNNDebate pic.twitter.com/srliwAo0cV
12.51am BST00:51
Twitter thinks the debate went either to Graham or Jindal. Graham by entertaining the audience, going pithy where others went long and keeping up a steady drumbeat of red-meat militarism for the base. Jindal by going after the Republican establishment and calling for fresh blood in Washington.
Even though he mostly talks about invading countries and how we’re all gonna die at least Graham seems to be having fun.
Good night for Lindsey Graham (showed humor, feistiness, tough on nat sec) & Jindal (clear, crisp conservative msg against DC & party stab)
The early #GOPDebate debate: replay the event in @Google search http://t.co/jibKarWBUZ pic.twitter.com/TP2bfY3TNj
Updated at 1.14am BST
12.47am BST00:47
Google reports that interest in Lindsay Graham has at times overtaken that for Donald Trump during this debate.
12.47am BST00:47
Graham’s last.
He says “I would win a war we can’t afford to lose. Then he calls radical Islam “religious Nazis.” Then he makes fun of Trump: “Our leading candidate gets his foreign policy from watching television. And from what I understand it’s the cartoon network.”
Graham repeats the line about winning a war we cannot afford to lose.
Ooh! Tapper announces a group photo with all 15 candidates to happen between the two debates. Great fun.
12.45am BST00:45
Here’s Jindal:
“Jake, I’m a doer not a talker.”
He follows that almost immediately with, “Planned Parenthood is selling baby parts across this country and Senate Republicans have given up.”
Then he calls Obama a socialist and promises this:“I will give every ounce of blood energy and sweat that I’ve got to save the idea of AMerica as the greatest country in the world.”
If Obama is a socialist, what is Sanders? A super duper socialist?
Updated at 12.48am BST
12.43am BST00:43
Santorum’s next.
“I went to Washington in the most unlikely way,” he says. No argument there. “I only planned on being there for one term,” he says, not mentioning his embarrassing double-digit reelection loss. “I shook things up,” he says.
Tapper is repeatedly saying “thank you senator. Thank you senator.”
OK he’s done.
12.42am BST00:42
Last question: what sets you apart from the 11 candidates in the upcoming debate?
Pataki goes first. He says first you have to win and then govern effectively. He says he has done both in one of the most liberal states in America. True that. Thrice-elected in New York.
“Once I won, I would put in place a sweeping conservative agenda,” Pataki says. He wraps and is applauded nicely.
Who’s predicting a Pataki bump in the polls off this?
12.39am BST00:3912.39am BST00:39
Sabrina SiddiquiSabrina Siddiqui
Sabrina Siddiqui is with Hillary Clinton’s team in Brooklyn, where they have put up a series of posters contrasting Reagan’s positions on key issues with those of current GOP candidates.Sabrina Siddiqui is with Hillary Clinton’s team in Brooklyn, where they have put up a series of posters contrasting Reagan’s positions on key issues with those of current GOP candidates.
Clinton camp HQ contrasting Reagan vs. current GOP candidates on the issues at its debate filing center pic.twitter.com/ZaFCGiyRa0Clinton camp HQ contrasting Reagan vs. current GOP candidates on the issues at its debate filing center pic.twitter.com/ZaFCGiyRa0
Both this time and last, the campaign has set up its own center for the media to observe the Republican debates.
Updated at 12.48am BST
12.39am BST00:3912.39am BST00:39
My colleague Megan Carpentier notes in relation to the hot Republican topic of “anchor babies”, which was covered earlier.My colleague Megan Carpentier notes in relation to the hot Republican topic of “anchor babies”, which was covered earlier.
FYI, only 9% of all births to undocumented immigrants from 2008-2010 were born to people who arrived 2008-2010: http://t.co/r0ysLrucvqFYI, only 9% of all births to undocumented immigrants from 2008-2010 were born to people who arrived 2008-2010: http://t.co/r0ysLrucvq
12.37am BST00:3712.37am BST00:37
Jeb LundJeb Lund
Once more into the Jeb Lund:Once more into the Jeb Lund:
I don’t expect Rick Santorum to NOT demonize Iranians and Shiites. I don’t expect him not to be paranoid.I don’t expect Rick Santorum to NOT demonize Iranians and Shiites. I don’t expect him not to be paranoid.
I DO wish he could just change up his rhetoric from condemning all Iranians as evil lunatics just because he believes that they are deeply religious people who believe that they face deadly external opponents while living in the early days of the end times of their theology’s own apocalypse.I DO wish he could just change up his rhetoric from condemning all Iranians as evil lunatics just because he believes that they are deeply religious people who believe that they face deadly external opponents while living in the early days of the end times of their theology’s own apocalypse.
Because, read the room, Rick: that’s like condemning the Cure’s jangly guitars at a Smiths concert.Because, read the room, Rick: that’s like condemning the Cure’s jangly guitars at a Smiths concert.
12.36am BST00:3612.36am BST00:36
Final questions are next. We’re rounding toward the finish of debate number 1.Final questions are next. We’re rounding toward the finish of debate number 1.
12.33am BST00:3312.33am BST00:33
Graham is asked about Vladimir Putin. Let’s see if he can summon some vigor on this one.Graham is asked about Vladimir Putin. Let’s see if he can summon some vigor on this one.
“Do you think Putin would be in the Ukraine or Syria today if Ronald Reagan were president?” he says. “No. This is what happens when you have a weak, unqualified commander-in-chief who doesn’t understand America’s role in the world.”“Do you think Putin would be in the Ukraine or Syria today if Ronald Reagan were president?” he says. “No. This is what happens when you have a weak, unqualified commander-in-chief who doesn’t understand America’s role in the world.”
UPDATE: Graham has a Twitter caddy sending out his top quotes:UPDATE: Graham has a Twitter caddy sending out his top quotes:
Situation in Russia is what happens when you get a weak, unqualified Commander in Chief who doesn't understand America's role in the world.Situation in Russia is what happens when you get a weak, unqualified Commander in Chief who doesn't understand America's role in the world.
Then Graham says “the next 9/11, which is most likely to occur in an attack from Syria,” has deepened as a danger as a result of Obama’s foreign policy.Then Graham says “the next 9/11, which is most likely to occur in an attack from Syria,” has deepened as a danger as a result of Obama’s foreign policy.
Pretty vigorous.Pretty vigorous.
Updated at 12.36am BSTUpdated at 12.36am BST
12.33am BST00:3312.33am BST00:33
12.32am BST00:3212.32am BST00:32
12.30am BST00:3012.30am BST00:30
Santorum says he’s been focused “like a laser” for 12 years on Iran’s nuclear program because “I understand who they are.Santorum says he’s been focused “like a laser” for 12 years on Iran’s nuclear program because “I understand who they are.
“Yes they’re radical Islamists, which is true. But they’re a particular version of it. .. They’re a death cult.. They believe in bringing about the end of times because that’s their goal.”“Yes they’re radical Islamists, which is true. But they’re a particular version of it. .. They’re a death cult.. They believe in bringing about the end of times because that’s their goal.”
Updated at 12.39am BSTUpdated at 12.39am BST
12.28am BST00:2812.28am BST00:28
Graham says Iran is “on track to get a bomb even if they don’t cheat.”Graham says Iran is “on track to get a bomb even if they don’t cheat.”
Question for Pataki: would you keep the assassination of Iranian scientists on the table?Question for Pataki: would you keep the assassination of Iranian scientists on the table?
Not on the table, Pataki says, but possibly up for future discussion. Then he calls for arming Israel with next-wave bunker buster bombs to get at Iranian nuclear facilities, need be.Not on the table, Pataki says, but possibly up for future discussion. Then he calls for arming Israel with next-wave bunker buster bombs to get at Iranian nuclear facilities, need be.
12.26am BST00:2612.26am BST00:26
Iran question for Graham: would you authorize a strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities?Iran question for Graham: would you authorize a strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities?
“If I believed they were trying to make a bomb, absolutely,” Graham says. “And here’s the important thing: they know I’m serious.”“If I believed they were trying to make a bomb, absolutely,” Graham says. “And here’s the important thing: they know I’m serious.”
12.25am BST00:2512.25am BST00:25
Ok time’s up on the question of whether anybody’s changing your mind. They’re back.Ok time’s up on the question of whether anybody’s changing your mind. They’re back.
12.21am BST00:2112.21am BST00:21
Second commercial break. What do you think of the debate so far? Anybody changing your mind on anything?Second commercial break. What do you think of the debate so far? Anybody changing your mind on anything?
12.21am BST00:2112.21am BST00:21
On to the federal minimum wage. Tapper asks Graham if he supports raising it.On to the federal minimum wage. Tapper asks Graham if he supports raising it.
Graham doesn’t, and makes an argument that economic uplift for wage earners has to come from growing businesses.Graham doesn’t, and makes an argument that economic uplift for wage earners has to come from growing businesses.
“I know this, when my mom and dad owned the restaurant, the bar, the pool room, that if you increased the minimum wage it would be hard to hire more people,” he says.“I know this, when my mom and dad owned the restaurant, the bar, the pool room, that if you increased the minimum wage it would be hard to hire more people,” he says.
Santorum jumps in with pepper in his breeches. He says a 50 cents an hour increase over three years makes sense.Santorum jumps in with pepper in his breeches. He says a 50 cents an hour increase over three years makes sense.
“Republicans are losing elections because we’re not talking about them,” Santorum says, meaning workers.“Republicans are losing elections because we’re not talking about them,” Santorum says, meaning workers.
Sounds like Bernie Sanders up there.Sounds like Bernie Sanders up there.
12.20am BST00:2012.20am BST00:20
Lauren GambinoLauren Gambino
Lots of Bernie and O'Malley supporters at #allowdebate rally pic.twitter.com/GzE47szCieLots of Bernie and O'Malley supporters at #allowdebate rally pic.twitter.com/GzE47szCie
Guardian US reporter Lauren Gambino reports from a rally in Washington:Guardian US reporter Lauren Gambino reports from a rally in Washington:
While Republicans indulge in their second face-off, some Democrats have been left asking why their candidates haven’t yet had a chance to take the debate stage at all.While Republicans indulge in their second face-off, some Democrats have been left asking why their candidates haven’t yet had a chance to take the debate stage at all.
At a protest outside of the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, dozens of Democrats shouted and chanted at the leaders of their party’s governing body, demanding they schedule more than the scheduled six debates.At a protest outside of the Democratic National Committee headquarters in Washington, dozens of Democrats shouted and chanted at the leaders of their party’s governing body, demanding they schedule more than the scheduled six debates.
I spoke to several protesters saying the current debate schedule is, to use their word, ‘rigged’ to protect Hillary Clinton.I spoke to several protesters saying the current debate schedule is, to use their word, ‘rigged’ to protect Hillary Clinton.
The protesters got creative with their chants, and some worked better than others. One chant singled out Committee chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz.The protesters got creative with their chants, and some worked better than others. One chant singled out Committee chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz.
‘DNC chair,’ they shouted. ‘If you don’t want the job / Someone else will sit there.’‘DNC chair,’ they shouted. ‘If you don’t want the job / Someone else will sit there.’
My colleague Ben Jacobs, on the trail in New Hampshire, noted that the protesters also sang a song written by Brooklyn songwriter Jonathan Mann demanding more Democratic debates. They did not include the lyrics which explicitly mentioned Vermont senator Bernie Sanders.My colleague Ben Jacobs, on the trail in New Hampshire, noted that the protesters also sang a song written by Brooklyn songwriter Jonathan Mann demanding more Democratic debates. They did not include the lyrics which explicitly mentioned Vermont senator Bernie Sanders.
When asked if Wasserman-Schultz had listened to the song or watched the accompanying music video, DNC spokesperson Holly Shulman told the Guardian:When asked if Wasserman-Schultz had listened to the song or watched the accompanying music video, DNC spokesperson Holly Shulman told the Guardian:
‘I have no specific YouTube video watching to read out at this time.’‘I have no specific YouTube video watching to read out at this time.’
The DNC has schedule the half-dozen debates in the party’s Democratic Primary, 22 fewer than the number held in 2008. The first one will be held on 13 October in Las Vegas.The DNC has schedule the half-dozen debates in the party’s Democratic Primary, 22 fewer than the number held in 2008. The first one will be held on 13 October in Las Vegas.
As the protest wrapped up, an organizer announced that they would all be heading to a nearby bar to watch the Republican debate, ‘because at least they are having one’.As the protest wrapped up, an organizer announced that they would all be heading to a nearby bar to watch the Republican debate, ‘because at least they are having one’.
12.16am BST00:1612.16am BST00:16
The next question is for Santorum about Jeb Bush calling for a limit on tax deductions for housing.The next question is for Santorum about Jeb Bush calling for a limit on tax deductions for housing.
Santorum says he is about to introduce a “20/20 plan perfect vision for America.”Santorum says he is about to introduce a “20/20 plan perfect vision for America.”
It’s a flat tax that he says would create so many manufacturing jobs the country would run out of applicants.It’s a flat tax that he says would create so many manufacturing jobs the country would run out of applicants.
Updated at 12.18am BSTUpdated at 12.18am BST
12.14am BST00:1412.14am BST00:14
Now here’s the tax question. Should hedge fund managers pay a higher tax rate?Now here’s the tax question. Should hedge fund managers pay a higher tax rate?
Pataki says he’d throw out the whole tax code. And yes he would close loopholes for “Wall Street fat cats.”Pataki says he’d throw out the whole tax code. And yes he would close loopholes for “Wall Street fat cats.”
It’s as if he was a three-term moderate governor. It’s as if he were a three-term moderate governor.
Updated at 12.40am BST
12.14am BST00:1412.14am BST00:14
Jeb LundJeb Lund
From Jeb Lund:From Jeb Lund:
“That’s the first thing I’ma do as president. We’re gonna drink more.”“That’s the first thing I’ma do as president. We’re gonna drink more.”
Look, I don’t agree with Lindsey Graham, but the man has a point.Look, I don’t agree with Lindsey Graham, but the man has a point.
Updated at 12.35am BSTUpdated at 12.35am BST
12.12am BST00:1212.12am BST00:12
Graham says the first thing he’s going to do as president is “drink more” and cooperate with Democrats, putting the country ahead of his party.Graham says the first thing he’s going to do as president is “drink more” and cooperate with Democrats, putting the country ahead of his party.
12.11am BST00:1112.11am BST00:11
Jeb LundJeb Lund
From Jeb Lund:From Jeb Lund:
Depressing but obvious: Rick Santorum said the US supreme court’s ruling on same sex marriage is unconstitutional, though the constitutionality of anything is actually defined by how the supreme court rules on it.Depressing but obvious: Rick Santorum said the US supreme court’s ruling on same sex marriage is unconstitutional, though the constitutionality of anything is actually defined by how the supreme court rules on it.
Now Santorum wants to pass the First Amendment Defense Act, an act that would be interpreted via the First Amendment to the constitution. And when pressed by George Pataki, who said that there is no rule of law when the president defies the supreme court, Santorum said that he hoped the next president would go ahead and defy it.Now Santorum wants to pass the First Amendment Defense Act, an act that would be interpreted via the First Amendment to the constitution. And when pressed by George Pataki, who said that there is no rule of law when the president defies the supreme court, Santorum said that he hoped the next president would go ahead and defy it.
12.10am BST00:1012.10am BST00:10
This debate is content-rich. Chunky conversations about issues from immigration to Iraq to the Supreme Court with up to five minutes and more spent on each. Each candidate given time to talk and then to respond. References by the candidate’s to each other’s records on the issues going back 15 years.This debate is content-rich. Chunky conversations about issues from immigration to Iraq to the Supreme Court with up to five minutes and more spent on each. Each candidate given time to talk and then to respond. References by the candidate’s to each other’s records on the issues going back 15 years.
Graham is the only one who has succeeded in cracking the crowd up. Jindal may be winning for sheer word count. Pataki has succeeded in coming across as actually being a candidate in the race, which is not totally common knowledge. Santorum is punchy without seeming nasty or growly, as he sometimes can.Graham is the only one who has succeeded in cracking the crowd up. Jindal may be winning for sheer word count. Pataki has succeeded in coming across as actually being a candidate in the race, which is not totally common knowledge. Santorum is punchy without seeming nasty or growly, as he sometimes can.
12.10am BST00:1012.10am BST00:10
Cindy CasaresCindy Casares
From Cindy Casares:From Cindy Casares:
George Pataki had to explain to Rick Santorum that Kim Davis went to jail because she in contempt of court and not because she’s under fire for her religious beliefs. Why you gotta be making southerners look so dumb, Gov’nah?George Pataki had to explain to Rick Santorum that Kim Davis went to jail because she in contempt of court and not because she’s under fire for her religious beliefs. Why you gotta be making southerners look so dumb, Gov’nah?
12.06am BST00:0612.06am BST00:06
Tapper asks about Supreme Court chief justice John Roberts who has written two opinions upholding Obamacare, the president’s health care law.Tapper asks about Supreme Court chief justice John Roberts who has written two opinions upholding Obamacare, the president’s health care law.
Were Santorum and Graham’s votes in favor of Graham a mistake?Were Santorum and Graham’s votes in favor of Graham a mistake?
Jindal says yes.Jindal says yes.
Graham replies that Roberts “is one of the most qualified men to come before the Senate,” and he doesn’t agree with his Obamacare decisions but in sum he thinks Roberts gets it right.Graham replies that Roberts “is one of the most qualified men to come before the Senate,” and he doesn’t agree with his Obamacare decisions but in sum he thinks Roberts gets it right.
Graham then says “the court’s at stake” in the 2016 election.Graham then says “the court’s at stake” in the 2016 election.
Santorum said he stands by his vote for Roberts, who he says “has a long, good record.”Santorum said he stands by his vote for Roberts, who he says “has a long, good record.”
“I don’t regret at all supporting John Roberts,” Santorum says.“I don’t regret at all supporting John Roberts,” Santorum says.
12.02am BST00:0212.02am BST00:02
Tapper is really letting them talk. Pataki is now deep into a discourse about the difference between civil disobedience and plain law-breaking.Tapper is really letting them talk. Pataki is now deep into a discourse about the difference between civil disobedience and plain law-breaking.
12.01am BST00:0112.01am BST00:01
How will Santorum respond to Pataki?How will Santorum respond to Pataki?
He quotes Martin Luther King’s letter from a Birmingham jail. Touché.He quotes Martin Luther King’s letter from a Birmingham jail. Touché.
12.00am BST00:0012.00am BST00:00
Pataki responds to Santorum. “Wow” he says. We’re talking about a president who defies the Supreme Court?Pataki responds to Santorum. “Wow” he says. We’re talking about a president who defies the Supreme Court?
Santorum appears to vow that he would defy the court “if they’re wrong.”Santorum appears to vow that he would defy the court “if they’re wrong.”
Pataki points out that that’s tantamount to kicking the rule of law to the curb.Pataki points out that that’s tantamount to kicking the rule of law to the curb.
“When you’re an elected official, and you take an oath of office to uphold the law, you cannot pick and choose,” Pataki says.“When you’re an elected official, and you take an oath of office to uphold the law, you cannot pick and choose,” Pataki says.
11.59pm BST23:5911.59pm BST23:59
Aand they’re back.Aand they’re back.
Tapper kicks the tax question aside to extend a conversation of Kim Davis.Tapper kicks the tax question aside to extend a conversation of Kim Davis.
Santorum recalls the story of a victim of the 1999 Columbine High School massacre in Colorado who was asked by a shooter about her faith in god and did not deny it.Santorum recalls the story of a victim of the 1999 Columbine High School massacre in Colorado who was asked by a shooter about her faith in god and did not deny it.
He says Davis, the Kentucky clerk who has denied marriage licenses to same-sex couples, has exhibited similar courage of conscience.He says Davis, the Kentucky clerk who has denied marriage licenses to same-sex couples, has exhibited similar courage of conscience.
11.57pm BST23:5711.57pm BST23:57
It’s off to commercial break. Tapper teases discussion when they come back about what Jeb Bush and Donald Trump have in common in their tax policy recommendations.It’s off to commercial break. Tapper teases discussion when they come back about what Jeb Bush and Donald Trump have in common in their tax policy recommendations.
Carried interest? Stay tuned.Carried interest? Stay tuned.
11.57pm BST23:5711.57pm BST23:57
Cindy CasaresCindy Casares
From Cindy Casares:From Cindy Casares:
Bobby Jindal’s response to 14 year-old Ahmed Mohamed being arrested in Texas for bringing a homemade clock to school. “We don’t discriminate against anybody based on the color of their skin or their creed.” President Uncle Tom Jindal, ladies and gentlemen.Bobby Jindal’s response to 14 year-old Ahmed Mohamed being arrested in Texas for bringing a homemade clock to school. “We don’t discriminate against anybody based on the color of their skin or their creed.” President Uncle Tom Jindal, ladies and gentlemen.
11.56pm BST23:5611.56pm BST23:56
Jeb LundJeb Lund
Lindsey Graham and Rick Santorum clashed over immigration and birthright citizenship: http://t.co/xGpHW6FEXvLindsey Graham and Rick Santorum clashed over immigration and birthright citizenship: http://t.co/xGpHW6FEXv
Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund weighs in on the Santorum-Graham spat over immigration:Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund weighs in on the Santorum-Graham spat over immigration:
I am dying laughing at Lindsey Graham’s Walter Sobchak routine (from the Big Lebowski), where he keeps interrupting his exasperating friend Rick Santorum with details. I expected him to finish with: ‘Am I wrong? Am I wrong? I’m stayin’. I’m finishing my coffee.’I am dying laughing at Lindsey Graham’s Walter Sobchak routine (from the Big Lebowski), where he keeps interrupting his exasperating friend Rick Santorum with details. I expected him to finish with: ‘Am I wrong? Am I wrong? I’m stayin’. I’m finishing my coffee.’
Graham’s answer on immigration was such a roller-coaster of emotions. He took us from wealthy Asians having children in expensive hidden hotels in the United States, to saying that he calls Hispanics “Americans”, to insisting on a pragmatic immigration policy to shore up Social Security.Graham’s answer on immigration was such a roller-coaster of emotions. He took us from wealthy Asians having children in expensive hidden hotels in the United States, to saying that he calls Hispanics “Americans”, to insisting on a pragmatic immigration policy to shore up Social Security.
I don’t know what happened here, but this was the most comprehensive tour of needling another candidate in a while.I don’t know what happened here, but this was the most comprehensive tour of needling another candidate in a while.
11.55pm BST23:5511.55pm BST23:55
Tapper brings up the case of Ahmed Mohamed, who was handcuffed after his school called police over the digital clock which “looked like a bomb” to a teacher.Tapper brings up the case of Ahmed Mohamed, who was handcuffed after his school called police over the digital clock which “looked like a bomb” to a teacher.
Jindal reels off a list of demands for Islamic leaders in America to adhere to. He is pressed on this case. He says it seems wrong but pivots to talk about defiant clerk and gay-marriage protester Kim Davis and discrimination against Christians.Jindal reels off a list of demands for Islamic leaders in America to adhere to. He is pressed on this case. He says it seems wrong but pivots to talk about defiant clerk and gay-marriage protester Kim Davis and discrimination against Christians.
Graham says “young men from the Mid East are different from Kim Davis”.Graham says “young men from the Mid East are different from Kim Davis”.
Pataki says we have one rule of law in America, and “I think she should have been fired”. He gets some applause for this.Pataki says we have one rule of law in America, and “I think she should have been fired”. He gets some applause for this.
Pataki says: imagine if it was a Muslim that said that. There is a place where religion supercedes the rule of law - it’s called Iran, he says, in one of the best lines so far.Pataki says: imagine if it was a Muslim that said that. There is a place where religion supercedes the rule of law - it’s called Iran, he says, in one of the best lines so far.
11.51pm BST23:5111.51pm BST23:51
Graham asks how Obama sleeps at night and says he blames the president for the refugee “mess” and wants to fix it.Graham asks how Obama sleeps at night and says he blames the president for the refugee “mess” and wants to fix it.
Bash asks him about his plan for US ground forces to be deployed against Isis.Bash asks him about his plan for US ground forces to be deployed against Isis.
Graham says he has learned what works in war. If we don’t destroy Isis, they’re coming here, he says. We need 10,000 more troops in Iraq, and a regional army to attack Isis, paid for by Middle Eastern allies, with 10% American troops, to “pull up these bastards by the roots”.Graham says he has learned what works in war. If we don’t destroy Isis, they’re coming here, he says. We need 10,000 more troops in Iraq, and a regional army to attack Isis, paid for by Middle Eastern allies, with 10% American troops, to “pull up these bastards by the roots”.
Santorum says he wants 10,000 extra troops to attack Isis, and maybe more.Santorum says he wants 10,000 extra troops to attack Isis, and maybe more.
Jindal says we need to do “whatever is necessary”.Jindal says we need to do “whatever is necessary”.
Pataki recalls 9/11, when he was governor of New York. He says the US is at greater risk of attack now than at any time since then.Pataki recalls 9/11, when he was governor of New York. He says the US is at greater risk of attack now than at any time since then.
He says we have to directly arm -- and is then cut off.He says we have to directly arm -- and is then cut off.
11.48pm BST23:4811.48pm BST23:48
Cindy CasaresCindy Casares
From Guardian contributor Cindy Casares in Texas:From Guardian contributor Cindy Casares in Texas:
“Immigration without assimilation is invasion,” said Bobby Jindal, with an impressive twang that would fool George Bush’s momma. He bragged – in his best Southern accent – that his parents came to the US legally and spoke English. What is the Hindi word for Uncle Tom?“Immigration without assimilation is invasion,” said Bobby Jindal, with an impressive twang that would fool George Bush’s momma. He bragged – in his best Southern accent – that his parents came to the US legally and spoke English. What is the Hindi word for Uncle Tom?
Governor Pataki spoke rationally about immigration: “We can’t send back 11 million people”, and advocated that undocumented immigrations perform community service in exchange for citizenship. But showing his Yankee roots will surely get him axed from the GOP field.Governor Pataki spoke rationally about immigration: “We can’t send back 11 million people”, and advocated that undocumented immigrations perform community service in exchange for citizenship. But showing his Yankee roots will surely get him axed from the GOP field.
Someone, though, needs to tell Lindsey Graham that the United States has no official language and its up to each person what language they want to speak.Someone, though, needs to tell Lindsey Graham that the United States has no official language and its up to each person what language they want to speak.
Updated at 11.55pm BSTUpdated at 11.55pm BST
11.46pm BST23:4611.46pm BST23:46
Jindal is asked about the prospect of 10,000 Syrian refugees being let in to the US. Does the US have an obligation to do this?Jindal is asked about the prospect of 10,000 Syrian refugees being let in to the US. Does the US have an obligation to do this?
Jindal says there is a “direct line” between this refugee crisis and Barack Obama’s decision not to follow up his “red line” on chemical weapons with military action.Jindal says there is a “direct line” between this refugee crisis and Barack Obama’s decision not to follow up his “red line” on chemical weapons with military action.
We should be clear that we are going to replace Assad and destroy Isis, he says.We should be clear that we are going to replace Assad and destroy Isis, he says.
Jindal says his parents arrived to assimilate. He wants to insist on that of new refugees.Jindal says his parents arrived to assimilate. He wants to insist on that of new refugees.
11.44pm BST23:4411.44pm BST23:44
Santorum and Graham get into a bit of a spat over the failure of a previous Santorum immigration plan. Santorum ends up saying he wants to focus on Americans, not Hispanics.Santorum and Graham get into a bit of a spat over the failure of a previous Santorum immigration plan. Santorum ends up saying he wants to focus on Americans, not Hispanics.
“Hispanics are Americans,” Graham says, to some applause.“Hispanics are Americans,” Graham says, to some applause.
Updated at 11.45pm BSTUpdated at 11.45pm BST
11.42pm BST23:4211.42pm BST23:42
Pataki is asked about birthright citizenship - the right for anyone born in the US to be an American citizen. “I don’t think we should tell that child born in America that we are going to send them back,” he says.Pataki is asked about birthright citizenship - the right for anyone born in the US to be an American citizen. “I don’t think we should tell that child born in America that we are going to send them back,” he says.
He also says he would require illegal immigrants to come forward and give them community service before they got legal status.He also says he would require illegal immigrants to come forward and give them community service before they got legal status.
Graham is asked about the same issue. He says he wouldn’t throw out 11 million illegal immigrants, but he would throw out the felons. He says they’d need to speak English - he can’t speak it that well, he jokes, but he has got pretty far.Graham is asked about the same issue. He says he wouldn’t throw out 11 million illegal immigrants, but he would throw out the felons. He says they’d need to speak English - he can’t speak it that well, he jokes, but he has got pretty far.
He adds that he has never seen an “illegal Canadian”. This is an economic issue, he says.He adds that he has never seen an “illegal Canadian”. This is an economic issue, he says.
11.39pm BST23:3911.39pm BST23:39
Ben JacobsBen Jacobs
Rick Santorum the only candidate singing the national anthem #GOPDebate #whatdoesitmeanRick Santorum the only candidate singing the national anthem #GOPDebate #whatdoesitmean
From New Hampshire, Ben Jacobs on a national anthem row, from sea to shining sea ... and then another sea:From New Hampshire, Ben Jacobs on a national anthem row, from sea to shining sea ... and then another sea:
Rick Santorum has clearly been paying attention to UK politics.Rick Santorum has clearly been paying attention to UK politics.
Our friends across the pond have been in a tizzy over newly elected Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn failing to sing along to God Save the Queen at a service on a memorial service for pilots who flew in the Battle of Britain.Our friends across the pond have been in a tizzy over newly elected Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn failing to sing along to God Save the Queen at a service on a memorial service for pilots who flew in the Battle of Britain.
But Santorum was the only candidate who sang along to the Star-Spangled Banner in the undercard debate on CNN tonight.But Santorum was the only candidate who sang along to the Star-Spangled Banner in the undercard debate on CNN tonight.
Santorum has followed British politics in the past, telling reporters in 2013: ‘I’ve worked with [former Conservative Party leader] Iain Duncan Smith for a while’ on issues of civil society.Santorum has followed British politics in the past, telling reporters in 2013: ‘I’ve worked with [former Conservative Party leader] Iain Duncan Smith for a while’ on issues of civil society.
The Santorum campaign did not, however, explicitly respond to a request for comment from the Guardian as to whether he was inspired to sing along by Corbyn’s failure to do so earlier this week.The Santorum campaign did not, however, explicitly respond to a request for comment from the Guardian as to whether he was inspired to sing along by Corbyn’s failure to do so earlier this week.
Meanwhile, on immigration, he says: ‘American workers are getting hurt by immigration, and that’s why they’re upset.’Meanwhile, on immigration, he says: ‘American workers are getting hurt by immigration, and that’s why they’re upset.’
11.39pm BST23:3911.39pm BST23:39
Dana Bush asks Santorum about a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, which Jindal supports.Dana Bush asks Santorum about a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, which Jindal supports.
Santorum says the debate should be about what is in the best interest of hard-working Americans.Santorum says the debate should be about what is in the best interest of hard-working Americans.
Jindal says we need to secure the border “period”. He says he will get it done in six months. He is not for an amnesty, he says. Immigration without assimilation is invasion, he says, repeating a line he has used before.Jindal says we need to secure the border “period”. He says he will get it done in six months. He is not for an amnesty, he says. Immigration without assimilation is invasion, he says, repeating a line he has used before.
Santorum says just because you don’t call it an amnesty doesn’t mean it isn’t one. American workers are getting hurt by immigration, he says.Santorum says just because you don’t call it an amnesty doesn’t mean it isn’t one. American workers are getting hurt by immigration, he says.
Jindal is pressed on his position. He says after the border is sealed, people will be dealt with “compassionately”. And he adds that he wants to criminalize and jail the mayors of so-called “sanctuary cities” which are seen as failing to crack down sufficiently on illegal immigrants.Jindal is pressed on his position. He says after the border is sealed, people will be dealt with “compassionately”. And he adds that he wants to criminalize and jail the mayors of so-called “sanctuary cities” which are seen as failing to crack down sufficiently on illegal immigrants.
11.34pm BST23:3411.34pm BST23:34
Tapper says Trump, Ben Carson and Carly Fiorina are all doing well because they are outsiders - in contrast to the four on stage now. Is service in government now a liability and not an asset?Tapper says Trump, Ben Carson and Carly Fiorina are all doing well because they are outsiders - in contrast to the four on stage now. Is service in government now a liability and not an asset?
Graham says Republican voters will look for someone to lead us in a new direction - particularly in foreign policy. Syria is hell on earth, he says, returning the focus to his military record and his plans to take on Isis. It’s obvious he believes this is his unique selling point and he is determined to drive his message home.Graham says Republican voters will look for someone to lead us in a new direction - particularly in foreign policy. Syria is hell on earth, he says, returning the focus to his military record and his plans to take on Isis. It’s obvious he believes this is his unique selling point and he is determined to drive his message home.
Updated at 11.35pm BSTUpdated at 11.35pm BST
11.33pm BST23:3311.33pm BST23:33
Hugh Hewitt tells Pataki he has broken his pledge to support the eventual nominee by tweeting that he would not support Trump.Hugh Hewitt tells Pataki he has broken his pledge to support the eventual nominee by tweeting that he would not support Trump.
Trump’s not going to be the nominee, Pataki says. And he complains that the first four questions have been about Trump.Trump’s not going to be the nominee, Pataki says. And he complains that the first four questions have been about Trump.
Trump is unfit to be the nominee or the president, he says. He brings up Trump’s casino history in Atlantic City. “He will do for America what he did for Atlantic City.”Trump is unfit to be the nominee or the president, he says. He brings up Trump’s casino history in Atlantic City. “He will do for America what he did for Atlantic City.”
11.31pm BST23:3111.31pm BST23:31
Graham is asked why so many voters seem to favor Trump. He says that it’s too early for the polling numbers to be meaningful.Graham is asked why so many voters seem to favor Trump. He says that it’s too early for the polling numbers to be meaningful.
He turns the conversation back to the fight against Islamic State. Graham asks the other candidates to commit to ground troops against Isis.He turns the conversation back to the fight against Islamic State. Graham asks the other candidates to commit to ground troops against Isis.
11.30pm BST23:3011.30pm BST23:30
Jeb LundJeb Lund
poll order = height order #GOPDebate pic.twitter.com/TwykzJHXZrpoll order = height order #GOPDebate pic.twitter.com/TwykzJHXZr
Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund is back:Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund is back:
I feel bad for these guys: they have wedded themselves and their followers to a view of the world that says that anything that the market doesn’t value clearly sucks. There is no redemption there. So just by dint of being on this second-class stage, these candidates are implicitly telling the audience, ‘We are a second-class product.’I feel bad for these guys: they have wedded themselves and their followers to a view of the world that says that anything that the market doesn’t value clearly sucks. There is no redemption there. So just by dint of being on this second-class stage, these candidates are implicitly telling the audience, ‘We are a second-class product.’
But what actual distinctions exist between the second-tier and the top-tier candidates are razor thin or really inconsequential.But what actual distinctions exist between the second-tier and the top-tier candidates are razor thin or really inconsequential.
Bobby Jindal is almost certainly as smart as Ted Cruz, if not smarter, and neither one is more or less performatively crazy than the other.Bobby Jindal is almost certainly as smart as Ted Cruz, if not smarter, and neither one is more or less performatively crazy than the other.
Rick Santorum is no more or less odious on social issues than Mike Huckabee.Rick Santorum is no more or less odious on social issues than Mike Huckabee.
You could swap George Pataki and Kasich and not push the needle too far in any direction.You could swap George Pataki and Kasich and not push the needle too far in any direction.
OK, I grant you, Lindsey Graham should go home to his cats and yarn and DVD sets of Midsomer Murders, but no analogy is perfect.OK, I grant you, Lindsey Graham should go home to his cats and yarn and DVD sets of Midsomer Murders, but no analogy is perfect.
Updated at 11.31pm BSTUpdated at 11.31pm BST
11.30pm BST23:3011.30pm BST23:30
Santorum says personal attacks only please Hillary Clinton, the Democratic frontrunner. There are plenty of policy differences to focus on, Santorum says.Santorum says personal attacks only please Hillary Clinton, the Democratic frontrunner. There are plenty of policy differences to focus on, Santorum says.
Jindal says the Democrats are gift-wrapping the election to the Republicans. Clinton is weak and Sanders is a socialist. But you can’t just attack Trump on policy - he’s all about personality, Jindal says.Jindal says the Democrats are gift-wrapping the election to the Republicans. Clinton is weak and Sanders is a socialist. But you can’t just attack Trump on policy - he’s all about personality, Jindal says.
11.28pm BST23:2811.28pm BST23:28
Jindal is asked why he has attacked Trump. Why did he attack his fellow Republican?Jindal is asked why he has attacked Trump. Why did he attack his fellow Republican?
Because Trump is not a Republican or a conservative, Jindal says. He seems determined to come across as energetic and forceful.Because Trump is not a Republican or a conservative, Jindal says. He seems determined to come across as energetic and forceful.
11.26pm BST23:2611.26pm BST23:26
Host Jake Tapper says he wants to have a real debate about policy. (Has he been following this campaign at all?)Host Jake Tapper says he wants to have a real debate about policy. (Has he been following this campaign at all?)
Pataki introduces himself first, recalling Reagan’s “tremendous smile” and his optimism. That type of leadership is why he is running for president, he says.Pataki introduces himself first, recalling Reagan’s “tremendous smile” and his optimism. That type of leadership is why he is running for president, he says.
Santorum says he led the fights against partial-birth abortion and welfare, and worked for sanctions against Iran. He says he has a disabled daughter, six other children and a wife who is the love of his life.Santorum says he led the fights against partial-birth abortion and welfare, and worked for sanctions against Iran. He says he has a disabled daughter, six other children and a wife who is the love of his life.
Jindal says he doesn’t have a famous last name or a reality TV show. He says he doesn’t want the American dream to turn into the European nightmare.Jindal says he doesn’t have a famous last name or a reality TV show. He says he doesn’t want the American dream to turn into the European nightmare.
Graham starts with a joke about the fact that there is an audience for the kids’ table debate this time. He says he is running for president to destroy radical Islam. He says he is most qualified to be commander-in-chief because of his three decades of military experience.Graham starts with a joke about the fact that there is an audience for the kids’ table debate this time. He says he is running for president to destroy radical Islam. He says he is most qualified to be commander-in-chief because of his three decades of military experience.
11.26pm BST23:2611.26pm BST23:26
About your moderators:About your moderators:
Related: Hugh Hewitt: is he Donald Trump's arch nemesis – or the antidote to Fox News?Related: Hugh Hewitt: is he Donald Trump's arch nemesis – or the antidote to Fox News?
Preps for @DanaBashCNN and @hughhewitt #CNNDebate pic.twitter.com/50LBwvRrzBPreps for @DanaBashCNN and @hughhewitt #CNNDebate pic.twitter.com/50LBwvRrzB
11.21pm BST23:2111.21pm BST23:21
Actor and singer Natalie Hill performs the national anthem. Santorum sings along, while the other three stand silently with their hands on their hearts.Actor and singer Natalie Hill performs the national anthem. Santorum sings along, while the other three stand silently with their hands on their hearts.
11.20pm BST23:2011.20pm BST23:20
It's kids' table time!It's kids' table time!
The debate begins, in front of the striking and rather surreal backdrop of Ronald Reagan’s Air Force One airplane.The debate begins, in front of the striking and rather surreal backdrop of Ronald Reagan’s Air Force One airplane.
Graham, Jindal, Santorum and Pataki take their places.Graham, Jindal, Santorum and Pataki take their places.
Updated at 11.28pm BSTUpdated at 11.28pm BST
11.12pm BST23:1211.12pm BST23:12
Just a reminder that the four debaters in this slightly humiliating pre-debate, which is just about to begin, are:Just a reminder that the four debaters in this slightly humiliating pre-debate, which is just about to begin, are:
The event is being hosted by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash and conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt.The event is being hosted by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash and conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt.
You can watch the debate live online here.You can watch the debate live online here.
11.09pm BST23:0911.09pm BST23:09
Ben JacobsBen Jacobs
Guardian US political reporter Ben Jacobs, who will be hanging out with a pseudo-focus group of voters at a bar in New Hampshire tonight, takes a look at the early debate field. Who will be the standout among all four early candidates?Guardian US political reporter Ben Jacobs, who will be hanging out with a pseudo-focus group of voters at a bar in New Hampshire tonight, takes a look at the early debate field. Who will be the standout among all four early candidates?
With only a handful of candidates on stage in the undercard debate tonight, there will be plenty of opportunity for the second-tier politicians to shine.With only a handful of candidates on stage in the undercard debate tonight, there will be plenty of opportunity for the second-tier politicians to shine.
They will have one hour and 40 minutes to speak directly to the American people – or at least those watching – with minimal interruption ... and without the presence of Donald Trump.They will have one hour and 40 minutes to speak directly to the American people – or at least those watching – with minimal interruption ... and without the presence of Donald Trump.
In the last debate, Carly Fiorina used the pre-debate debate opportunity to shine and catapult herself into prime time tonight.In the last debate, Carly Fiorina used the pre-debate debate opportunity to shine and catapult herself into prime time tonight.
The best bet to make a similar kind of leap tonight at the so-called “kids’ table” is the South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham – at least as we see it out of here in the early voting state of New Hampshire.The best bet to make a similar kind of leap tonight at the so-called “kids’ table” is the South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham – at least as we see it out of here in the early voting state of New Hampshire.
The ardent hawk has a reputation for not taking himself too seriously – at least as far as elected officials in Washington go – so expect some one-liners.The ardent hawk has a reputation for not taking himself too seriously – at least as far as elected officials in Washington go – so expect some one-liners.
Last time around, he was stilted ... almost as if he had been coached to be less funny. Tonight, Graham gets the chance to make up for that, albeit on a far less crowded stage.Last time around, he was stilted ... almost as if he had been coached to be less funny. Tonight, Graham gets the chance to make up for that, albeit on a far less crowded stage.
Related: Carly Fiorina: how to be the only woman on the GOP debate stageRelated: Carly Fiorina: how to be the only woman on the GOP debate stage
Updated at 11.10pm BSTUpdated at 11.10pm BST
11.02pm BST23:0211.02pm BST23:02
Jeb LundJeb Lund
Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund writes in from Tampa, Florida:Guardian US columnist Jeb Lund writes in from Tampa, Florida:
So guys, it’s just you and your honey, Lady Liberty.So guys, it’s just you and your honey, Lady Liberty.
The setting is perfect: Simi Valley. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. But then electile dysfunction happens again.The setting is perfect: Simi Valley. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. But then electile dysfunction happens again.
Who’s George Pataki? And Jindal is here? That guy’s polling lower than a boozed septuagenarian after accidentally rubbing himself down with lidocaine.Who’s George Pataki? And Jindal is here? That guy’s polling lower than a boozed septuagenarian after accidentally rubbing himself down with lidocaine.
Updated at 11.03pm BSTUpdated at 11.03pm BST
10.49pm BST22:4910.49pm BST22:49
Hello and welcome to the Ronald Reagan presidential library and museum in Simi Valley, California, where we are in the room for what we don’t think we’re foolish to hope will be a positively historic night in American politics: the second Republican presidential debate.Hello and welcome to the Ronald Reagan presidential library and museum in Simi Valley, California, where we are in the room for what we don’t think we’re foolish to hope will be a positively historic night in American politics: the second Republican presidential debate.
Never have so many politicians come together to try to say so much in so little time. The crowd onstage tonight could field an entire NFL team.Never have so many politicians come together to try to say so much in so little time. The crowd onstage tonight could field an entire NFL team.
Who would play center though?Who would play center though?
Conventional wisdom has it that the job tonight for most of the candidates is to take frontrunner Donald Trump down a notch. Who will mount the best attack? How will Trump hit back? Will any policy debates accidentally break out?Conventional wisdom has it that the job tonight for most of the candidates is to take frontrunner Donald Trump down a notch. Who will mount the best attack? How will Trump hit back? Will any policy debates accidentally break out?
Who are you rooting for? We want you to tell us which answers you think crackled with wit and which fell flat. We want to hear who you think is #winning. Let us know in the comments and we will decorate the most poignant and incisive entries with sparklers.Who are you rooting for? We want you to tell us which answers you think crackled with wit and which fell flat. We want to hear who you think is #winning. Let us know in the comments and we will decorate the most poignant and incisive entries with sparklers.
We have a full slate of Guardian columnists and news writers on hand to try to make sense of whatever’s about to happen. Don’t let them eat up all the blog inches, though – throw your opinion in!We have a full slate of Guardian columnists and news writers on hand to try to make sense of whatever’s about to happen. Don’t let them eat up all the blog inches, though – throw your opinion in!
The debate’s scheduled to begin at 5pm local time, or 8pm ET, and run for ... well it’s unclear just how long it will go. Host network CNN has three hours blocked off on its schedule, but they’re not saying how much of that will be post-debate analysis. The moderators are Jake Tapper and Dana Bash of CNN, plus conservative talk radio host Hugh Hewitt.The debate’s scheduled to begin at 5pm local time, or 8pm ET, and run for ... well it’s unclear just how long it will go. Host network CNN has three hours blocked off on its schedule, but they’re not saying how much of that will be post-debate analysis. The moderators are Jake Tapper and Dana Bash of CNN, plus conservative talk radio host Hugh Hewitt.
Here are the candidates’ surnames and where they will be standing:Here are the candidates’ surnames and where they will be standing:
The 2 stages are set for the Sept. 16 #CNNDebate. Who makes the main stage? http://t.co/75Pm4p32nP pic.twitter.com/fuSq6ZiLkWThe 2 stages are set for the Sept. 16 #CNNDebate. Who makes the main stage? http://t.co/75Pm4p32nP pic.twitter.com/fuSq6ZiLkW
Candidates will have one minute each to reply to questions posed by the moderators plus 30 seconds for any rebuttals. Little warning lights will expose time-clock scofflaws.Candidates will have one minute each to reply to questions posed by the moderators plus 30 seconds for any rebuttals. Little warning lights will expose time-clock scofflaws.
The main event follows an undercard debate featuring four candidates – George Pataki, Bobby Jindal, Rick Santorum and Lindsey Graham – whose polling numbers place them at the back of the pack.The main event follows an undercard debate featuring four candidates – George Pataki, Bobby Jindal, Rick Santorum and Lindsey Graham – whose polling numbers place them at the back of the pack.
May the best Washington outsider with a plan to restore American glory by getting corrupt money and special interests out of politics while destroying Isis, Hillary Clinton and Obamacare win.May the best Washington outsider with a plan to restore American glory by getting corrupt money and special interests out of politics while destroying Isis, Hillary Clinton and Obamacare win.
The last main GOP debate had 10 candidates on stage. pic.twitter.com/nayCShP6ERThe last main GOP debate had 10 candidates on stage. pic.twitter.com/nayCShP6ER
Before the main debate is an undercard at 6pm ET featuring four candidates who did not qualify for the top-tier group: former senator Rick Santorum, former New York governor George Pataki, Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal and South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham. We’ll cover that one, too, but not in quite so much detail as the main event.Before the main debate is an undercard at 6pm ET featuring four candidates who did not qualify for the top-tier group: former senator Rick Santorum, former New York governor George Pataki, Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal and South Carolina senator Lindsey Graham. We’ll cover that one, too, but not in quite so much detail as the main event.