Kerry and Edwards Pointed and Polite in Lively USC Debate

[Freddie Stubbs]

By Mark Z. Barabak and Michael Finnegan, Times Staff Writers


Sounding alternately like rivals and potential running mates, John Edwards and John F. Kerry sparred Thursday over values, trade policy and their commitment to reforming Washington in a lively debate where they accused President Bush of playing politics with the gay marriage issue.

Edwards mostly used humor and an affable manner to draw contrasts with the more staid front-runner in the Democratic presidential race. Kerry, in turn, sought to minimize their differences by repeatedly insisting there was little separation between them on most issues.

The two were asked about the touchy matter of same-sex marriage shortly after the start of the 90-minute session at the USC's Bovard Auditorium. Both said that although they y opposed legalizing gay marriages, they also were against the constitutional amendment endorsed by President Bush that would ban them.

Edwards said no state should be forced to sanction a gay marriage recognized by another state. Kerry suggested the proposed amendment was unnecessary because "no state has to recognize something that is against public policy."

more: http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/2004/la-na-debate27feb27,1,3547062.story?coll=la-home-headlines

[Rainbowreflect]

1. Ummmm???? There were 4 candidates at the debate.

[Freddie Stubbs]

2. Kucinich and Sharpton are Candidates In Name Only

These CINO's have won almost no delegates, and are in the race for purposes other than becoming the Democratic nominee for President. The media is simply reflecting the lack of support that these candidates are receiving from Democratic voters.

[revcarol]

3. Back again, Freddie?

You need a new record. That one is broken.

[Rainbowreflect]

4. So those of us who do support them should not have our voices heard?

I guess we should just sit down & shut up.

[tobys]

5. I guess it was stupid of us

500 volunteers in NY state who braved freezing cold to collect 15000 signatures to put Kucinich on the ballot, in more congressional districts than Kerry managed to get on.

[Rainbowreflect]

6. Thanks for your hard work for Dennis & our country.

[tobys]

7. It's the least I can do in these grim times