The winner of the December 15 debate for the nine Republican candidates is nobody.  That’s my thought and the thought of most pundits who watched the entire debate.  Although, on my Facebook page, the Washington Post has some different comments.  Rubio sparred with Cruz.  Bush sparred with Trump.  The one that did the most good for himself was New Jersey Governor Chris Christie.  After listening to Rubio/Cruz battle for who voted for what in the U.S. Senate, Christie replied “The people don’t have any idea of what the hell you guys are talking about and don’t care.”   And, then he went on to speak of himself as a prosecutor and working with now FBI Director James Comey during 9/11.  Quite effective.  He could handle Hillary.

Here’s a run down briefly of all nine from last night.   Trump….same old same old.  When confronted by Rand Paul that it was against the Geneva Convention to “Take Out” family members of known terrorist’s, said Trump “it’s either they kill us or we kill them.”  Ridiculus.  John Kasich tried hard but very little impact…Ben Carson mispronounced the name of a terrorist group and the GOP Chairman and coughed throughout…he’s finished….Carly Fiorina sharp as usual.  Very good on Russian diplomacy with the world and the USA, but going no where towards the Presidency…Jeb Bush had his best debate, but likely too little and too late…Marco Rubio stands out as one bright guy on top of most everything….he or Chris Christie have the best chance of beating Hillary Clinton (Democrat’s fear Rubio the most. Smart and Hispanic)…some think Ted Cruz was terrific.  To me I see him as a pompous preacher that is smart, but not nearly likable enough to beat Hillary.  A rehash version of Barry Goldwater 1964. Too conservative along with his act……Rand Paul had a good night giving his views, but this is not the time for an isolationist.

In the earlier debate of four Presidential Candidates, Lindsey was excellent totally ripping Trump apart on allowing no Muslims in the Country.  Graham has been to the Middle East 35 times and well protected by a Muslim Marine body guard.  Emotionally effective.  It makes me still think how unworkable and expensive Trump’s plan is to ship all illegals back to where they came from.   What’s he going to do?  Have officers go to house door fronts and ask “Any illegals in here?  If so, come out and get on this bus. You’re going back.”  Just plain nuts.  But, most Trump supporters aren’t into details.  They have an emotional attachment to him.

The highlight for Trump last night was his saying there is no way he will leave the Party and run a third Party candidacy.   Amen.  One Democrat pundit said this morning Hillary Clinton would win 49 States if Trump was the candidate.  Trump’s support has much fervor, but not nearly enough largely White male voters.   He simply scares too many.

And, for what it’s worth, CNN did a surprisingly good job handling the December 15th debate.

Down to almost twelve months and counting.