LOTF Special Events Thread

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Moderator (Mike Oxlong): “Thank you for your answers. Let’s move on to our second topic of the evening, with a question directed at all of the candidates.”

He looked at his notes briefly, before continuing.

“In 2016, Arnold Wolf won the electoral college by an overwhelming margin, thanks primarily to his ability to narrowly flip longtime Democratic states in the Midwest. This debate tonight is being held in one such midwestern state that has been solidly Democratic for generations- but one that Arnold Wolf also came within two percentage points of also flipping during the last election. According to many experts, these states that used to comprise the so-called blue wall could now swing either way. However, in the 2018 midterms, many returned to being solidly Democratic.

So my question to you is, how do you intend to win these states in 2020, especially given only two people on this stage have ever won a competitive statewide race? And what do you see as the path forward for the GOP in this election and beyond?”

Governor Jonah Prendergast Jr. of West Virginia

"President Wolf broke through the Blue Wall convincingly, and he did it by not treating the American people like children. That has been the defining, awful trait of Washington politics for some time now. A swamp-ish class of 'I-know-better' snobs who think they can shuffle the people around like kids on a school bus. It is an attitude that we must fight, and we must defeat, and we cannot pretend that Republicans are innocent of talking down to people and that this is a solely a Democrat problem."

Clearing his throat, Jonah continued.

"The President has acknowledged the pain that China and other trade and currency manipulators like Europe have caused to our industrial communities. I come from and represent one of those communities which has benefited from Wolf's substantial acknowledgment of who our enemies really are when it comes to trade. Some think we should blink and just accept that America should be second rate on trade. I think that's a cowardly position, and I think we should keep fighting for our American jobs, and our American workers, and our American products!"

Somewhat buoyed, he wrapped up his argument, not wanting to overstay the time-limit.

"We can keep going, and we can fight to complete those promises which have only floundered because of dirty Democrat opposition. We will make the Wolf Tax Cuts permanent and go further, to take American workers out of tax completely. We can mobilize the largest infrastructure operation since the New Deal, a war on decay. We will aggressively increase production so the price of electricity, of gas and of food will go down and make real wages go further. That is our answer to socialism, and that is how we will maintain our new relationship with the workers of America. Continuing to make America great again, and then to guard that American greatness against anyone who'd dare try to take it away."

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

Moderator (Mike Oxlong): “Thank you for your answers. Let’s move on to our second topic of the evening, with a question directed at all of the candidates.”

He looked at his notes briefly, before continuing.

“In 2016, Arnold Wolf won the electoral college by an overwhelming margin, thanks primarily to his ability to narrowly flip longtime Democratic states in the Midwest. This debate tonight is being held in one such midwestern state that has been solidly Democratic for generations- but one that Arnold Wolf also came within two percentage points of also flipping during the last election. According to many experts, these states that used to comprise the so-called blue wall could now swing either way. However, in the 2018 midterms, many returned to being solidly Democratic.

So my question to you is, how do you intend to win these states in 2020, especially given only two people on this stage have ever won a competitive statewide race? And what do you see as the path forward for the GOP in this election and beyond?”

Governor Jonah Prendergast Jr. of West Virginia

"President Wolf broke through the Blue Wall convincingly, and he did it by not treating the American people like children. That has been the defining, awful trait of Washington politics for some time now. A swamp-ish class of 'I-know-better' snobs who think they can shuffle the people around like kids on a school bus. It is an attitude that we must fight, and we must defeat, and we cannot pretend that Republicans are innocent of talking down to people and that this is a solely a Democrat problem."

Clearing his throat, Jonah continued.

"The President has acknowledged the pain that China and other trade and currency manipulators like Europe have caused to our industrial communities. I come from and represent one of those communities which has benefited from Wolf's substantial acknowledgment of who our enemies really are when it comes to trade. Some think we should blink and just accept that America should be second rate on trade. I think that's a cowardly position, and I think we should keep fighting for our American jobs, and our American workers, and our American products!"

Somewhat buoyed, he wrapped up his argument, not wanting to overstay the time-limit.

"We can keep going, and we can fight to complete those promises which have only floundered because of dirty Democrat opposition. We will make the Wolf Tax Cuts permanent and go further, to take American workers out of tax completely. We can mobilize the largest infrastructure operation since the New Deal, a war on decay. We will aggressively increase production so the price of electricity, of gas and of food will go down and make real wages go further. That is our answer to socialism, and that is how we will maintain our new relationship with the workers of America. Continuing to make America great again, and then to guard that American greatness against anyone who'd dare try to take it away."

Porter blinked in confusion, ready to attack.

"And how will you increase production, exactly?"

[Dentali]

First Republican Primary Debate, St. Paul, Minnesota

Richardson's Mic cut out after the word China.

"Governor, do you think President Wolf has done enough through his policies to bolster Republican support in the mid-west to secure these states in 2020? He promised more employment and to rejuvenate the automobile industry along with others, yet more and more of the factories are closing down and moving to our neighbors. For example, why should people in Michigan vote for you, and the same promises that haven't been fulfilled yet?"

"Democrats have been obstructing the full agenda of President Wolf, so of course not everything was able to get done. The facts are unemployment is at a 49 year low, median household income at the highest level ever recorded, 3.9 million Americans are off of food stamps. 95% of US manufacturers are optimistic about the future, highest level ever... Given more time and a non obstructionist Congress Wolf would be able to build up a strong, healthy and wealthy workforce."

”As I was saying before you cut my mic... A stable, healthy, and wealthy workforce in turn lends itself to renewed commitments to family, to community. That is in the national interest. National Security and Job Creation go hand in hand, and a booming economy means nothing if the wealth is concentrated is New York and Silicon Valley. When I go across the country I hear again and again that people don't feel like Government works for them, the work for corporations, big tech, big pharma, that trend has to end. The American people need to feel they are our top priority.”

"This is a goal President Wolf and I share. As Governor of North Carolina, I worked across the aisle to create the fastest growing economy in the country, $4.4 billion dollars in tax relief, investing in small businesses, balancing the budget, with the goal of raising wages and making the American dream more accessible. That's what I did in North Carolina, what President Wolf has done across the country, and the work I intend to continue."

[Meelducan]

First Republican Primary Debate, St. Paul, Minnesota

Prendergast's microphone cuts out during his last section of his speech.

"So it's safe to say you're for the trade war Governor? May I remind you that the trade war with China has ravaged many states within the Mid-West, like Minnesota. A further question is on your so-called 'War on Decay'. How do you expect to pay for this? More taxes?"

[Puertollano]

.

[Velahor]

First Republican Primary Debate, St. Paul, Minnesota

Richardson's Mic cut out after the word China.

"Governor, do you think President Wolf has done enough through his policies to bolster Republican support in the mid-west to secure these states in 2020? He promised more employment and to rejuvenate the automobile industry along with others, yet more and more of the factories are closing down and moving to our neighbors. For example, why should people in Michigan vote for you, and the same promises that haven't been fulfilled yet?"

"Democrats have been obstructing the full agenda of President Wolf, so of course not everything was able to get done. The facts are unemployment is at a 49 year low, median household income at the highest level ever recorded, 3.9 million Americans are off of food stamps. 95% of US manufacturers are optimistic about the future, highest level ever... Given more time and a non obstructionist Congress Wolf would be able to build up a strong, healthy and wealthy workforce."

”As I was saying before you cut my mic... A stable, healthy, and wealthy workforce in turn lends itself to renewed commitments to family, to community. That is in the national interest. National Security and Job Creation go hand in hand, and a booming economy means nothing if the wealth is concentrated is New York and Silicon Valley. When I go across the country I hear again and again that people don't feel like Government works for them, the work for corporations, big tech, big pharma, that trend has to end. The American people need to feel they are our top priority.”

"This is a goal President Wolf and I share. As Governor of North Carolina, I worked across the aisle to create the fastest growing economy in the country, $4.4 billion dollars in tax relief, investing in small businesses, balancing the budget, with the goal of raising wages and making the American dream more accessible. That's what I did in North Carolina, what President Wolf has done across the country, and the work I intend to continue."

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

"Governor, I am glad to hear that you balanced the budget and cut taxes in North Carolina. That shows some more commitment to fiscal conservatism than a number of our peers.”

“But Michigan and Minnesota don’t want to hear platitudes and excuses about why even though the GDP has gone up, their standard of living hasn’t increased. They don’t want to hear that it was the Democrats’ fault, hell, some of them were Democrats until 2016. They want to know how we’re going to give them a better life. In your tenure as Governor, even as the state economy improves, the poverty rate and standard of living remain the same by many measures.”

“You said a booming economy means nothing if all the wealth is in New York and Silicon Valley. Does a booming economy in North Carolina mean nothing if all the wealth is concentrated in Charlotte and Raleigh? While North Carolina has made great improvements in its urban and suburban economy, rural voters still haven’t seen the improvements, farmers are still suffering, and main streets are still boarding up windows. The same story is true across the nation.”

[Dentali]

Nathaniel Richardson: With all due respect Congresswoman, look at the numbers... In the past 5 years my states wage growth exceeded the nations growth all but two months. Unemployment has dropped rapidly. The economic growth in North Carolina benefited everybody, the jobs we grew were blue collar and white collar, we lowered healthcare costs and helped parents send their kids to better schools. My tenure as Governor was not perfect but I’m proud of the work my state has done to benefit as many people as possible. In Congress I wrote bills that specifically targeted farmers for tax reform, so that they could pocket more of their earnings, it was wonkish work it wasn’t glamorous but it benefitted real people. I got legislation passed for entrepreneurs across my state, small towns, rural communities and yes large cities. Their will always be more work to be done, but don’t act like real people weren’t helped.

[The World Capitalist Confederation]

Nathaniel Richardson: With all due respect Congresswoman, look at the numbers... In the past 5 years my states wage growth exceeded the nations growth all but two months. Unemployment has dropped rapidly. The economic growth in North Carolina benefited everybody, the jobs we grew were blue collar and white collar, we lowered healthcare costs and helped parents send their kids to better schools. My tenure as Governor was not perfect but I’m proud of the work my state has done to benefit as many people as possible. In Congress I wrote bills that specifically targeted farmers for tax reform, so that they could pocket more of their earnings, it was wonkish work it wasn’t glamorous but it benefitted real people. I got legislation passed for entrepreneurs across my state, small towns, rural communities and yes large cities. Their will always be more work to be done, but don’t act like real people weren’t helped.

Porter sniped at Richardson, hoping to get an attack line in.

"Your administration may have been a success on the economic front, sure, but what about the social front?

You vetoed several bills protecting children from transgender rapists, generally fought against the Christian Right and even had your own Lieutenant Governor resign in disgust.

I commend your efforts to reduce poverty and unemployment, yet I simply cannot tolerate your record on social issues."

[Gordano and Lysandus]

Porter blinked in confusion, ready to attack.

"And how will you increase production, exactly?"

"I'm glad you asked, Secretary."

Jonah bore a warm smile, before going to continue.

"Production increases to meet demand. That's how money works in the real world. How do we increase demand? Finishing the Wall and building infrastructure will mean that our energy market will grow to meet construction needs. Making good on our 2016 platform will grow that market. The same applies to when we improve industrial production through common-sense trade policies and by passing laws so that the Government only buys American - when domestic manufacturing grows, more energy will be needed, and we will build an energy market which is robust and cheap to the everyday American."

Having addressed energy, he moved on to food.

"As for food? We know what hurts American food sales. Hostile policies from our trade rivals. Arnold Wolf has been right to get aggressive with our trade rivals. If we want to grow our food market, we need to expand food exports, and that means we've got to make our 'partners' pay. Europe embraces American defense, but thinks itself above our meat. Japan and South Korea exploit our markets whilst guarding their own industries. Canada won't buy our damn milk. It's time to take the kid gloves off, and make our trading relationships acknowledge the debt the world owes to the United States."

[203 words]

First Republican Primary Debate, St. Paul, Minnesota

Prendergast's microphone cuts out during his last section of his speech.

"So it's safe to say you're for the trade war Governor? May I remind you that the trade war with China has ravaged many states within the Mid-West, like Minnesota. A further question is on your so-called 'War on Decay'. How do you expect to pay for this? More taxes?"

"The question we have to ask ourselves is on trade is whether we're going to tolerate a continuing spiral of decline or whether we're going to do anything about it. Temporary hardship, or letting the market collapse under our feet entirely. The President has acted to remedy the burdens of the trade war, and we can continue that. We are strong enough to win, and we will win. But if we don't act now, we will be surrendering hundreds of thousands of jobs to Europe and China and other trade rivals. That's not a status quo that I could accept as President."

After addressing the first part of the question, he moved onto the second.

"My plan for rebuilding America, my War on Decay, will off-set many costs through public-private partnerships and working with state governments. But more than that, it'll work hand-in-hand with my tax plan which will stimulate growth, both lowering tax rates and improving government revenue. Making America richer increases how much the government gets in - not by persecuting Americans, but by getting off their backs. Let's be clear here - America's roads, bridges, and dams are crumbling. I don't think the people of Oroville or Lake Charles or countless other places across the United States living under the shadow of dangerous infrastructure want to hear about cost when we're discussing keeping their communities, their families, their property safe."

[218 words]

[Velahor]

Nathaniel Richardson: With all due respect Congresswoman, look at the numbers... In the past 5 years my states wage growth exceeded the nations growth all but two months. Unemployment has dropped rapidly. The economic growth in North Carolina benefited everybody, the jobs we grew were blue collar and white collar, we lowered healthcare costs and helped parents send their kids to better schools. My tenure as Governor was not perfect but I’m proud of the work my state has done to benefit as many people as possible. In Congress I wrote bills that specifically targeted farmers for tax reform, so that they could pocket more of their earnings, it was wonkish work it wasn’t glamorous but it benefitted real people. I got legislation passed for entrepreneurs across my state, small towns, rural communities and yes large cities. Their will always be more work to be done, but don’t act like real people weren’t helped.

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“Governor, you'll drag your record out in front of the people and beat that dead horse over and over, but what will you do for Americans now? Those who haven’t benefitted from the Wolf economic recovery? They're real people too."

"The question was how you’d help people in places like Michigan who haven’t seen their jobs come back like Wolf promised, and those who haven't felt the effects of the Wolf economic growth, I think they deserve an answer.”

“I do have an answer. Protectionism with China asserted our place as a world leading economy, but it also increased the cost of necessary goods, stifling the positive effects of the Wolf tax cuts and deregulatory measures. I will sign free trade agreements that open up trade with our allies, ending our dependence on China for cheap goods!"

“And domestically, I’ll enact smart tax reforms that lower the income tax, eliminate the death tax, and exempt low-income individuals from tax completely. American incomes will go up by 16% under the Prosperity Plan!”

“And I grew up in a little town on the border of New Hampshire and Maine, and my primary residence is there to this day. I’ve lived the rural life. I promise to help farmers in those areas stay in business and revive rural America!"

[Dentali]

Nathaniel Richardson: With all due respect Congresswoman, look at the numbers... In the past 5 years my states wage growth exceeded the nations growth all but two months. Unemployment has dropped rapidly. The economic growth in North Carolina benefited everybody, the jobs we grew were blue collar and white collar, we lowered healthcare costs and helped parents send their kids to better schools. My tenure as Governor was not perfect but I’m proud of the work my state has done to benefit as many people as possible. In Congress I wrote bills that specifically targeted farmers for tax reform, so that they could pocket more of their earnings, it was wonkish work it wasn’t glamorous but it benefitted real people. I got legislation passed for entrepreneurs across my state, small towns, rural communities and yes large cities. Their will always be more work to be done, but don’t act like real people weren’t helped.

Porter sniped at Richardson, hoping to get an attack line in.

"Your administration may have been a success on the economic front, sure, but what about the social front?

You vetoed several bills protecting children from transgender rapists, generally fought against the Christian Right and even had your own Lieutenant Governor resign in disgust.

I commend your efforts to reduce poverty and unemployment, yet I simply cannot tolerate your record on social issues."

“I vetoed a version of the bathroom bill then when they came back with a better one that was more legally rigorous I signed it. I also got major abortion restrictions passed through a divided legislature. I imposed tougher sentences on violent criminals, and expanded school choice. I also did my best to restrict illegal immigration through things like e verify compliance though a governor can only do so much on that front. And furthermore I never had neo nazis support me. I’ll take my record on social issues over yours any day.”

[Dentali]

Nathaniel Richardson: With all due respect Congresswoman, look at the numbers... In the past 5 years my states wage growth exceeded the nations growth all but two months. Unemployment has dropped rapidly. The economic growth in North Carolina benefited everybody, the jobs we grew were blue collar and white collar, we lowered healthcare costs and helped parents send their kids to better schools. My tenure as Governor was not perfect but I’m proud of the work my state has done to benefit as many people as possible. In Congress I wrote bills that specifically targeted farmers for tax reform, so that they could pocket more of their earnings, it was wonkish work it wasn’t glamorous but it benefitted real people. I got legislation passed for entrepreneurs across my state, small towns, rural communities and yes large cities. Their will always be more work to be done, but don’t act like real people weren’t helped.

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“Governor, you'll drag your record out in front of the people and beat that dead horse over and over, but what will you do for Americans now? Those who haven’t benefitted from the Wolf economic recovery? They're real people too."

"The question was how you’d help people in places like Michigan who haven’t seen their jobs come back like Wolf promised, and those who haven't felt the effects of the Wolf economic growth, I think they deserve an answer.”

“I do have an answer. Protectionism with China asserted our place as a world leading economy, but it also increased the cost of necessary goods, stifling the positive effects of the Wolf tax cuts and deregulatory measures. I will sign free trade agreements that open up trade with our allies, ending our dependence on China for cheap goods!"

“And domestically, I’ll enact smart tax reforms that lower the income tax, eliminate the death tax, and exempt low-income individuals from tax completely. American incomes will go up by 16% under the Prosperity Plan!”

“And I grew up in a little town on the border of New Hampshire and Maine, and my primary residence is there to this day. I’ve lived the rural life. I promise to help farmers in those areas stay in business and revive rural America!"

“Congresswoman the majority of people have benefited from the economy, and as I said earlier we aren’t done yet... I intend to continue to work to expand prosperity to every corner of the country. No one is arguing perfection, I’m saying that my policies did real good for a massive number of people of all socioeconomic groups. The benefits were widespread And constantly improving, no change happens overnight.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

“Congresswoman the majority of people have benefited from the economy, and as I said earlier we aren’t done yet... I intend to continue to work to expand prosperity to every corner of the country. No one is arguing perfection, I’m saying that my policies did real good for a massive number of people of all socioeconomic groups. The benefits were widespread And constantly improving, no change happens overnight.”

"Governor, I admire and appreciate much of what you've done for North Carolina, but isn't it a pretty simple fact to acknowledge that North Carolina had a lot more money to work with that states like my own, or Michigan, or Minnesota which were in a near terminal decline from the Baharia Recession? To what extent do you feel you can understand the experience of working Americans?"

[Velahor]

Porter blinked in confusion, ready to attack.

"And how will you increase production, exactly?"

"I'm glad you asked, Secretary."

Jonah bore a warm smile, before going to continue.

"Production increases to meet demand. That's how money works in the real world. How do we increase demand? Finishing the Wall and building infrastructure will mean that our energy market will grow to meet construction needs. Making good on our 2016 platform will grow that market. The same applies to when we improve industrial production through common-sense trade policies and by passing laws so that the Government only buys American - when domestic manufacturing grows, more energy will be needed, and we will build an energy market which is robust and cheap to the everyday American."

Having addressed energy, he moved on to food.

"As for food? We know what hurts American food sales. Hostile policies from our trade rivals. Arnold Wolf has been right to get aggressive with our trade rivals. If we want to grow our food market, we need to expand food exports, and that means we've got to make our 'partners' pay. Europe embraces American defense, but thinks itself above our meat. Japan and South Korea exploit our markets whilst guarding their own industries. Canada won't buy our damn milk. It's time to take the kid gloves off, and make our trading relationships acknowledge the debt the world owes to the United States."

[203 words]

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“Governor Prendergast, respectfully, why would you insinuate that we should initiate trade wars with Canada and the rest of our allies? Wouldn't that only worsen our standing on the world stage, make other countries take us less seriously?"

Diane looked at the audience, actually, at the cameras. She took on a tone of simplicity, talking to the people straight.

"Do you know who always loses in a trade war? The working people! Governments raise tariffs over and over on both sides, and that money is sucked right out of the economy and into the pockets of big government, and to the tax-exempt mega-corporations that big government has chosen to partner with. Both governments walk away with a load of cash, while the economy suffers, the people pay more for basic goods, and tension increases internationally, eventually threatening our national security."

Then she returned to her more relaxed look as she had throughout the debate.

"Our Founders threw tea in the harbor for a tariff much lower than the ones set today. If that isn't a sign that steep protectionist tariffs weren't part of their vision for our republic, then I don't know what is."

[Gordano and Lysandus]

(Image)
Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“Governor Prendergast, respectfully, why would you insinuate that we should initiate trade wars with Canada and the rest of our allies? Wouldn't that only worsen our standing on the world stage, make other countries take us less seriously?"

Diane looked at the audience, actually, at the cameras. She took on a tone of simplicity, talking to the people straight.

"Do you know who always loses in a trade war? The working people! Governments raise tariffs over and over on both sides, and that money is sucked right out of the economy and into the pockets of big government, and to the tax-exempt mega-corporations that big government has chosen to partner with. Both governments walk away with a load of cash, while the economy suffers, the people pay more for basic goods, and tension increases internationally, eventually threatening our national security."

Then she returned to her more relaxed look as she had throughout the debate.

"Our Founders threw tea in the harbor for a tariff much lower than the ones set today. If that isn't a sign that steep protectionist tariffs weren't part of their vision for our republic, then I don't know what is."

"Congresswoman Paulson, you mistake my willingness to use tariffs as a fondness for tariffs. I am wholly aware that they are not easy, I am wholly aware they come with a cost. But the simple truth is that the trade deficit is extreme, it is toxic, and it is killing American workers. Furthering poverty, furthering decline. In Wisconsin, I've seen farmers who can't shift their milk and don't know how they're going to get out of the hole. In South Carolina, I've seen automotive workers who worry that the Japanese and the South Koreans are going to be allowed to suck the market share out of their factories. There is no plan B for them. Free trade is an ideal, a laudable ideal which we can work towards, but fair trade is more important. I simply cannot put diplomatic nicety before the ability of an American mother or father being able to put food on their table. If we don't fight this fight, those farms go bankrupt, those factories wind down production. So whilst I admire your idealism, Congresswoman, and admire it wholeheartedly, I'm addressing the crisis we have in hand."

[Dentali]

“Congresswoman the majority of people have benefited from the economy, and as I said earlier we aren’t done yet... I intend to continue to work to expand prosperity to every corner of the country. No one is arguing perfection, I’m saying that my policies did real good for a massive number of people of all socioeconomic groups. The benefits were widespread And constantly improving, no change happens overnight.”

"Governor, I admire and appreciate much of what you've done for North Carolina, but isn't it a pretty simple fact to acknowledge that North Carolina had a lot more money to work with that states like my own, or Michigan, or Minnesota which were in a near terminal decline from the Baharia Recession? To what extent do you feel you can understand the experience of working Americans?"

Richardson: Firstly I would like to say North Carolina was in a bad way during the recession... everyone was. North Carolina had advantages and disadvantages, we had a bad deficit, unemployment, every economic issue under the sun. But we turned it around with smart proactive policies that put us on the right track.

But to the second part of your question... The reason I have been such an advocate for small businesses over the years is because I grew up above one. My family had a 2 story house and they ran the small business they founded out of it. I'm not going to pretend I came from crippling poverty, but we didn't have a lot when I was growing up, some years were good and some it was difficult to make ends meet... I got my first job when I was 14 working afterschool at a car wash and i've worked dozens of odd jobs to put myself through college... Everyone in my family worked hard to get a better life, and i'm happy to say we all came out the other side.

I'm happy to say I can give my daughter a better life than I had growing up, with more opportunity and less hardship. So when I go door to door across the country and people tell me about how they are struggling to make ends meet, how they want to figure out how to help their kids live their dreams... I understand that.... i've been there.

[Velahor]

(Image)
Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“Governor, you'll drag your record out in front of the people and beat that dead horse over and over, but what will you do for Americans now? Those who haven’t benefitted from the Wolf economic recovery? They're real people too."

"The question was how you’d help people in places like Michigan who haven’t seen their jobs come back like Wolf promised, and those who haven't felt the effects of the Wolf economic growth, I think they deserve an answer.”

“I do have an answer. Protectionism with China asserted our place as a world leading economy, but it also increased the cost of necessary goods, stifling the positive effects of the Wolf tax cuts and deregulatory measures. I will sign free trade agreements that open up trade with our allies, ending our dependence on China for cheap goods!"

“And domestically, I’ll enact smart tax reforms that lower the income tax, eliminate the death tax, and exempt low-income individuals from tax completely. American incomes will go up by 16% under the Prosperity Plan!”

“And I grew up in a little town on the border of New Hampshire and Maine, and my primary residence is there to this day. I’ve lived the rural life. I promise to help farmers in those areas stay in business and revive rural America!"

“Congresswoman the majority of people have benefited from the economy, and as I said earlier we aren’t done yet... I intend to continue to work to expand prosperity to every corner of the country. No one is arguing perfection, I’m saying that my policies did real good for a massive number of people of all socioeconomic groups. The benefits were widespread And constantly improving, no change happens overnight.”

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

"I'm not doubting the benefits Governor, I just fear that your economic vision is no bigger than the one that the party inherited from President Wolf. We need originality and innovation to get places like Pontiac, Michigan and Davenport, Iowa the jobs that they’ve been waiting to get back. My plans will bring jobs back, they’ve worked for America in the past, in the reforms I’ve written and passed in the House, and they’ll work again! The free market works, it's just common sense.”

“These real people who are still suffering economically in America, who haven’t experienced much benefit from the Wolf tax cuts, they don’t want to hear promises from big government to ‘trust the system.’ They don’t want to hear that when the economy improves but only Amazon grows, that they just need to wait in line for it to be their turn. They want economic prosperity NOW, and my plan will do just that. Especially the Corporate Transfer Tax, which will replace corporate taxes with a 15% tax on corporate transactions, holding currently tax-free companies like Amazon accountable while boosting the economy through the power of the people and small businesses. This is the Great Economic Revolution that I have been talking about, a free market tax policy that addresses inequality, encourages entrepreneurship, and creates the blue-collar jobs that the Midwest and the rest of America has been waiting for!”

[Velahor]

(Image)
Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“Governor Prendergast, respectfully, why would you insinuate that we should initiate trade wars with Canada and the rest of our allies? Wouldn't that only worsen our standing on the world stage, make other countries take us less seriously?"

Diane looked at the audience, actually, at the cameras. She took on a tone of simplicity, talking to the people straight.

"Do you know who always loses in a trade war? The working people! Governments raise tariffs over and over on both sides, and that money is sucked right out of the economy and into the pockets of big government, and to the tax-exempt mega-corporations that big government has chosen to partner with. Both governments walk away with a load of cash, while the economy suffers, the people pay more for basic goods, and tension increases internationally, eventually threatening our national security."

Then she returned to her more relaxed look as she had throughout the debate.

"Our Founders threw tea in the harbor for a tariff much lower than the ones set today. If that isn't a sign that steep protectionist tariffs weren't part of their vision for our republic, then I don't know what is."

"Congresswoman Paulson, you mistake my willingness to use tariffs as a fondness for tariffs. I am wholly aware that they are not easy, I am wholly aware they come with a cost. But the simple truth is that the trade deficit is extreme, it is toxic, and it is killing American workers. Furthering poverty, furthering decline. In Wisconsin, I've seen farmers who can't shift their milk and don't know how they're going to get out of the hole. In South Carolina, I've seen automotive workers who worry that the Japanese and the South Koreans are going to be allowed to suck the market share out of their factories. There is no plan B for them. Free trade is an ideal, a laudable ideal which we can work towards, but fair trade is more important. I simply cannot put diplomatic nicety before the ability of an American mother or father being able to put food on their table. If we don't fight this fight, those farms go bankrupt, those factories wind down production. So whilst I admire your idealism, Congresswoman, and admire it wholeheartedly, I'm addressing the crisis we have in hand."

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

Paulson smiled with an almost-laugh.

“And I admire your idealism as well Governor. Wouldn’t you say that it’s pretty idealistic to think that elected officials would have the competence to dictate the international business relationships of thousands of American-owned companies? It’s also pretty idealistic to think that the government can accurately bend the market to its will just by taxing people’s trade. Which is exactly what a tariff is, a tax. I don’t support increasing taxes on the American people, whether the tax is taken out of your paycheck, charged at the point of sale, or hidden in the growing price of necessary goods and services.”

“The reason why things aren’t improving for many Americans is very, very simple. Wolf’s deregulation and tax cuts helped the economy and increased worker salaries, but trade wars with China, while helpful in giving us the upper hand again in trade, also made basic goods and services way more expensive for Americans. So many people saw pay increases at the same time that their expenses went up. And tariffs didn’t bring jobs back. They never do.”

“Instead, jobs grew in the places where the effects of deregulation and tax cuts helped in some areas of the country, while the already-hurting people of America’s old manufacturing hubs picked up the tab for a trade war in the prices of food, clothing, shelter, and more.”

[Greater Arab State]

First Republican Primary Debate, St. Paul, Minnesota

"Arnold Wolf Jr, are you running solely on your father's platform? Some people would say your father only won key midwestern states such as Michigan and Wisconsin by luck and being seen by many as the lesser of two evils. Do you think you can hold the key midwestern states if you are selected to be the Republican Nominee, especially with your father's policies?" Eric Shun asked the Wolf cub.

“I would certainly say that I could hold the key midwestern states with my father’s policies, we must admit that the work my father has done so far needs to be completed in order to show the American people that we are serious about listening to them and delivering upon that.

Such progress would be put at risk by the radical socialist agenda pushed by the Democratic Party, with significant numbers either voting against, or abstaining from legislation intended to tackle authoritarian regimes in areas such as Venezuela. That is why I am confident that I could hold the key midwestern states.”

[Gordano and Lysandus]

(Image)
Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

Paulson smiled with an almost-laugh.

“And I admire your idealism as well Governor. Wouldn’t you say that it’s pretty idealistic to think that elected officials would have the competence to dictate the international business relationships of thousands of American-owned companies? It’s also pretty idealistic to think that the government can accurately bend the market to its will just by taxing people’s trade. Which is exactly what a tariff is, a tax. I don’t support increasing taxes on the American people, whether the tax is taken out of your paycheck, charged at the point of sale, or hidden in the growing price of necessary goods and services.”

“The reason why things aren’t improving for many Americans is very, very simple. Wolf’s deregulation and tax cuts helped the economy and increased worker salaries, but trade wars with China, while helpful in giving us the upper hand again in trade, also made basic goods and services way more expensive for Americans. So many people saw pay increases at the same time that their expenses went up. And tariffs didn’t bring jobs back. They never do.”

“Instead, jobs grew in the places where the effects of deregulation and tax cuts helped in some areas of the country, while the already-hurting people of America’s old manufacturing hubs picked up the tab for a trade war in the prices of food, clothing, shelter, and more.”

"The Presidency requires strength of purpose and the confidence to make hard decisions. Every indication is that the people of the Midwest support the President in making those hard decisions. Every indication is that they are prepared to shoulder the temporary burden in order to look forward to the prize at the end. The promise of free, fair trade is ahead, but we will simply never get there if we do not get a grip on the situation in front of us and take on our trade rivals head-to-head. As I said, if we don't fight and win the trade war, our farms and our factories and our communities will wither away. That is not a price we can pay, Representative Paulson, and as much as I respect you and your ideals, if you can't make hard decisions, then you shouldn't be in the Oval Office. America does not win by resignation and surrender."

[Velahor]

(Image)
Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

Paulson smiled with an almost-laugh.

“And I admire your idealism as well Governor. Wouldn’t you say that it’s pretty idealistic to think that elected officials would have the competence to dictate the international business relationships of thousands of American-owned companies? It’s also pretty idealistic to think that the government can accurately bend the market to its will just by taxing people’s trade. Which is exactly what a tariff is, a tax. I don’t support increasing taxes on the American people, whether the tax is taken out of your paycheck, charged at the point of sale, or hidden in the growing price of necessary goods and services.”

“The reason why things aren’t improving for many Americans is very, very simple. Wolf’s deregulation and tax cuts helped the economy and increased worker salaries, but trade wars with China, while helpful in giving us the upper hand again in trade, also made basic goods and services way more expensive for Americans. So many people saw pay increases at the same time that their expenses went up. And tariffs didn’t bring jobs back. They never do.”

“Instead, jobs grew in the places where the effects of deregulation and tax cuts helped in some areas of the country, while the already-hurting people of America’s old manufacturing hubs picked up the tab for a trade war in the prices of food, clothing, shelter, and more.”

"The Presidency requires strength of purpose and the confidence to make hard decisions. Every indication is that the people of the Midwest support the President in making those hard decisions. Every indication is that they are prepared to shoulder the temporary burden in order to look forward to the prize at the end. The promise of free, fair trade is ahead, but we will simply never get there if we do not get a grip on the situation in front of us and take on our trade rivals head-to-head. As I said, if we don't fight and win the trade war, our farms and our factories and our communities will wither away. That is not a price we can pay, Representative Paulson, and as much as I respect you and your ideals, if you can't make hard decisions, then you shouldn't be in the Oval Office. America does not win by resignation and surrender."

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“It does take confidence and strength of purpose to be President. It also takes confidence and strength of purpose to stand on this stage for America’s workers AND businesses by saying that a tax by any name is STILL a tax!”

“It does take confidence and strength of purpose to stand by the American people against big government and for individual liberty and fiscal conservatism for decades, as I have. It’s a sign of confidence and strength to lay out your tax plans in detail, as I have, with numbers and projections, rather than just telling Americans to ‘wait and see’ how things get better.”

“It takes confidence and strength of purpose to NOT resign or surrender to protectionist trade as a long-term strategy. It takes CONFIDENCE and STRENGTH of propose a bold new tax plan and back free markets on a stage of wishy-washy protectionists.”

“Government interference in our economy only hurts our economy, and Americans know that, they tell me that every day I’m on the campaign trail. I guarantee that my tax plans will FIX OUR ECONOMY, and I have the numbers to back it up. I think that’s exactly the CONFIDENCE and STRENGTH OF PURPOSE a President needs, and something only I have done. Unless you had something else in mind for where I lacked either of those, then by all means, continue.”

(Note: all caps used for emphasis, not yelling)

[Sanabel]

Moderator (Mike Oxlong): “Candidates, President Wolf rose to prominence in 2016 through his hardline stance on immigration- calling many Mexican immigrants quote ‘rapists and murderers’ and promising to build a wall on the southern border. Now, in 2019, the construction on the wall has only just begun, the President has come under criticism for the treatment of migrants at the border, and no resolution has been reached for DACA recipients. What do you see as the best path forward for this country on the issue of immigration?”

[Dentali]

Moderator (Mike Oxlong): “Candidates, President Wolf rose to prominence in 2016 through his hardline stance on immigration- calling many Mexican immigrants quote ‘rapists and murderers’ and promising to build a wall on the southern border. Now, in 2019, the construction on the wall has only just begun, the President has come under criticism for the treatment of migrants at the border, and no resolution has been reached for DACA recipients. What do you see as the best path forward for this country on the issue of immigration?”

Richardson: Its a massive failure of Congress over decades to not pass comprehensive immigration reform. My philosophy is Security First. Before we do anything else we need to get a handle on our border in a way that is Sane and Humane.

We need investment in border infrastructure, organization, technology and resources such as physical walls in key areas, and expanded detention spaces. Additionally it involves an investment in manpower, hiring more border security officers, ICE agents and ensuring that state and local law enforcement cooperate fully with our Border Security. Another overlooked overlooked factor to this is reforming our immigration courts so they have the tools necessary to handle the overwhelming caseload. We also need to conduct a review of the aid programs to make sure they are effective and to figure out how to best build on them. This includes helping secure the border in the Northern Triangle, expanding border patrols, modernizing border crossings and create joint patrols with Mexico and the Northern Triangle nations.

[Dentali]

Richardson clears his throat

Richardson: We need to process everyone who crosses the border, to separate the good from the bad. And the only way we can do that efficiently is with reforms to the court system and increased resources for border security. That is the only way we can maintain law and order while ensuring good treatment for those detained while being processed.

[Velahor]

Moderator (Mike Oxlong): “Candidates, President Wolf rose to prominence in 2016 through his hardline stance on immigration- calling many Mexican immigrants quote ‘rapists and murderers’ and promising to build a wall on the southern border. Now, in 2019, the construction on the wall has only just begun, the President has come under criticism for the treatment of migrants at the border, and no resolution has been reached for DACA recipients. What do you see as the best path forward for this country on the issue of immigration?”

Congresswoman Diane Paulson
Republican Presidential Primary Debate
FOX News

“My first step upon entering office will be securing the funds to finish the wall. Because this is America, and in America, when we start a project, we finish it!”

“But a wall needs to be supported with tech-based border security, including biometrics and drone patrols. We need to put our best and brightest on the task of finding and destroying tunnels. And we need to increase security at established border crossings, which are where over 90% of the drugs and human trafficking into the United States actually occurs.”

“Finally, as President Reagan said in his great “Shining City On a Hill” speech: ‘And if there had to be city walls, the walls had doors and the doors were open to anyone with the will and heart to get there.’ This includes not just ending illegal immigration, but taking measures to foster the good, economically beneficial immigration that has helped fuel our nation’s success. Steps like reforming immigration courts, expediting the asylum application process, and finding a better, more realistic solution than deportation for the millions of undocumented immigrants who are already in this country.”