Washington Examiner

Top moments from Republican primary debates

The Power of Memorable Moments ⁣in Presidential Primary ​Debates

The first Republican⁢ presidential​ debate is⁣ a crucial opportunity ⁢for GOP candidates to leave a lasting impression on potential voters. These moments have the potential ⁣to shape their campaigns for years to come. As​ we anticipate the upcoming 2024 primary debate, let’s⁣ take a look back at some of the most unforgettable moments from previous presidential ⁣primary debates.

1980 Republican primary debate: “I⁢ am paying for this microphone”

In a debate ‌that his ‍campaign was‌ funding, former California Gov. Ronald Reagan ⁣demanded that other candidates be included. However, ⁢the‌ moderator, Jon⁤ Breen, wanted to limit the debate to Reagan and former CIA Director​ George H.W. Bush. This led to a⁣ memorable exchange.

As the debate⁤ was about to begin, Reagan tried to explain his‌ desire for inclusivity, but Breen talked over ​him. ⁤Frustrated, ⁤Reagan’s microphone ⁤was eventually turned off. In a moment of defiance, Reagan declared, “I’m paying for this microphone, ‌Mr. Green!” The crowd ‍erupted in cheers, and⁢ this standout moment became a‍ defining highlight of the 1980 Republican⁤ primaries.

2008 Democratic primary debate: “You’re⁣ likable ‍enough”

During a January 2008 Democratic primary debate, then-Sen. Hillary Clinton was ⁢confronted with the question of likability compared⁢ to her opponent, then-Sen. Barack Obama. Her response created a memorable and‌ lighthearted⁣ moment.

When Clinton expressed that the⁢ question hurt ​her⁤ feelings, the crowd burst into laughter. Obama interjected, saying,⁢ “You’re likable enough, Hillary.” Clinton ‍graciously accepted the comment, and ​the⁢ exchange showcased ⁢their‍ camaraderie amidst the competition.

2012⁣ Republican primary debate: “Oops”

Former Gov. Rick ⁢Perry aimed to impress during a ​GOP ⁢primary debate by listing government agencies he ‌would abolish if elected president. However, ​he stumbled upon a forgetful moment that became a defining gaffe.

Perry ⁤confidently named the Department⁣ of Commerce and the Department of Education but⁢ struggled to recall the third agency. Former Gov. Mitt Romney suggested ⁤the Environmental Protection Agency, but Perry admitted it was not⁢ the one.‍ With ⁢a sheepish smile, Perry admitted defeat, saying, “Oops.” This unforgettable slip-up became a​ defining moment of the 2012 Republican ⁣primaries.

2016 Democratic⁤ primary debate: “Damn emails”

Sen. Bernie Sanders delivered a​ memorable line during an October ⁤2015 Democratic primary debate, addressing the⁤ controversy surrounding former ‌Secretary of​ State Hillary Clinton’s email scandal.

Interrupting Clinton as she mentioned the ‍scandal, Sanders declared,⁤ “The ‍American people⁢ are sick and tired of hearing about‍ your damn emails!” Clinton responded with gratitude, saying, “Me too. ​Me too.” This⁢ moment showcased ⁣Sanders’ willingness to rise above political ⁤tactics and focus on the issues.

2016 Republican primary debate:‍ Trump v. Bush

The 2016​ Republican primary debates were marked by intense clashes⁣ between Donald Trump and former‍ Gov. Jeb ⁢Bush. One particular ‍exchange during the second presidential debate stood out.

Bush‌ accused Trump of ​lobbying for casinos‍ in Florida ​while he was governor, but Trump vehemently denied the claims. The​ back-and-forth continued, with Bush insisting​ Trump had ⁣pursued casino gambling. Trump, ‍known for his nicknames, commented on Bush’s energy during the debate,‍ calling ‌him “low energy Jeb.”

2020 Democratic primary debate: “That little girl was‍ me”

In the ⁣first Democratic‌ primary debate of the 2020 election cycle, ​then-Sen. Kamala Harris confronted former​ Vice⁤ President Joe Biden about his past ​opposition to busing for racial integration. She shared a personal story that​ left a lasting impact.

Harris revealed that she was⁤ part of the second class ‌to integrate public schools and had been bused to school every day. She emotionally declared, “That little girl was me.” This ‍powerful moment resonated with viewers and became a breakout highlight ⁣of the debate.

The upcoming 2024 Republican presidential debate, scheduled for Wednesday in Milwaukee, promises‍ to be another historic event. While‍ former President ⁢Donald Trump will not be in attendance, it presents⁣ an opportunity for candidates like Gov.‌ Ron DeSantis, former Gov. Nikki Haley, Sen. Tim Scott, and former Gov. Chris Christie to make their mark.

Let’s see who will create the next unforgettable moment in the world of presidential primary ⁤debates.



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