The New York Times - An Appetizer of a Debate

The New York Times - An Appetizer of a Debate

Perhaps the most surprising thing about the first debate between the two Democrats running for governor of New York was that it was good television. The exchange between Attorney General Eliot Spitzer and Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi was full of worthy political tidbits. And New Yorkers who tuned in could actually recognize differences between two members of the same party.

In a political era when watching candidates debate can be something akin to eating wheat germ, this one left us hungry for more.

Mr. Suozzi walked onto the stage on Tuesday night with polling numbers so low that it was hard to imagine what kept him moving. If he did not actually win the debate, he deserved special credit for making the event happen and forcing the front-runner to address matters that are crucial and politically sticky.

The two men, who both talk in full staccato, also managed to address the kinds of important details that make such events worthwhile. Mr. Suozzi, for example, is looking at only $2.5 billion in additional aid for New York City schools, while Mr. Spitzer wants most of the court-ordered $4 billion to $6 billion. He also wants universal health care and property tax relief, raising questions about how he will pay for his long list of promises.

Even the yes-or-no questions — usually more interesting than fair — brought provocative responses. Both men confessed to having smoked marijuana, gambling and speeding at some point. Asked whether they wanted to be president, Mr. Spitzer said no, Mr. Suozzi, yes.

Too bad they weren't asked for a yes-or-no answer on whether there will be more real debates like this one. But there's still time. The candidates should meet again — preferably in different parts of the state, focusing on one critical issue at a time. Since Mr. Suozzi has an underdog's eagerness for more of these events, it's up to Mr. Spitzer.

http://tomsuozzi.com/news/nyt-072706/