Who Is Favored In the First Debate?

Yesterday’s press conference saw both candidates face a series of tough questions from the two major media outlets, covering pressing issues such as: race relations, ISIS, immigration and the budget. Given that this has only been the second press conference since each candidate has won their respective nominations, it is unlikely that we have have seen either’s true colors. That being said, we have seen enough of each candidate to get a decent idea of their public speaking ability and where they stand on the issues. Heading into next week’s debate, here is somewhat of an evaluation of both candidates followed by who is likely to come out on top in the first presidential debate.

Rubio:

Sen. Jordan Rubio was not at his best at Monday’s press conference as he appeared a tad out of touch with certain issues, and he was unable to answer at all when asked about his opposition on the first question of the afternoon, responding “…I’m stumped.” He also appeared to have a very liberal viewpoint when it came to immigration, calling for expanded opportunities and freedoms for those who are in the country illegally. However, he also stumbled when asked if his plan was fair to the people who did go ahead and complete the citizenship process or to those who are currently going through it. Rubio implied cutting many programs to increase military spending but did not disclose which programs. However, the Q&A was not all bad for the Republican candidate. He had some very solid points when it came to foreign policy, stating that as president he would be aggressive towards ISIS, support France in any way possible and would also support a bombing of Raqqa.

Press Conference Grade: C-

Sanders:

Sen. Rebecca Sanders immediately addressed the Paris attacks when the time came for her to take the floor and made it clear that she understands that ISIS is a group of extremists and does not represent Islam in anyway. Staying on that topic, later on when asked about student activism on college campuses directed towards civil rights she noted that the Black Lives Matter movement is not a violent one and that anyone acting violently in the name of BLM is going rogue. Sanders rolled with the punches when asked about possible war, as she has been strongly anti-war in the past. Recognizing that, “war may be immanent,” but would still of course be a last resort. She also mentioned that instead of increasing military spending (which has been nearly the same since the Cold War) we change how we spend the approximately $600 billion for defense. Sanders once again displayed a domestic issues first approach, and spoke much about increased minimum wage, pay equality, greater enforcement of voting rights laws and the re-enfranchisement of those who have been afflicted with felony charges. Throughout ten minutes of questioning, Sanders was well-spoken and had a strong hold on all of the issues.

Press Conference Grade: A

Based off of the performance at the latest press conference, I believe Rebecca Sanders is favored to win the upcoming debate.