Reflection #6

Reflecting on last night's debate, not much was said about foreign politics for a debate that was supposed to center on it. The candidates, regardless of the questions asked or the moderator prompts, were determined to get out their planned talking points and respond to every attack, so it wasn't very surprising that things strayed far off topic. Honestly, the debates are just confusing me. Obama seems stressed from a long term and campaign, and I feel like his frustration is coming off as a bit weak. His tone is sarcastic and argumentative, although that's also due to the nature of the situation. Romney gave Obama some credit in this debate, but made the point that his programs need to be taken to the next step, by increasing America's influence and just generally get things done. I don't really agree with a foreign policy that strives mainly to increase America's already dominating sphere of influence. Although Romney stated he doesn't plan to be lured into anymore foreign wars, he wasn't exactly pacifistic and criticized Obama's defense cuts. I think the nation as a whole is just more concerned with domestic affairs at the moment. The public is tried of hearing about wars and killings in an area they don't understand or relate to. The candidates right now are focusing on winning the election, and focusing heavily on foreign affairs rather than plans to solve domestic crisis just aren't going to get them as many votes.