Edwards needs to remember he's debating a shrewd criminal

[genius]

He needs to be prepared with a full case against Cheney, a brilliant presentation, a plan to keep the debate focused on Cheney and himself rather than Bush and Kerry and a case-winning closing argument. If Cheney tries to discuss Kerry, Edwards should ask him if Cheney's the one running for President.

Edwards needs to keep the debate focused on Haliburton contracts and secret energy meetings and the theft of funds from the people and children of America to give to the Bush-Cheney backers. Edwards needs to make a case for what Americans have lost because of the Bush-Cheney gang.


He should plan to demonstrate the importance of trial lawyers as that will undoubtedly come up. He needs to point out the importance of attorneys to each individual (and provide examples everyone can relate to) and to the upholding of the Constitution. This country was founded by attorneys.

Edwards should also hit on the loss of the right to a trial. One thing America has lost is the right to a fair trial. John Adams, the second President and a Federalist, defended the British soldiers after the Boston Massacre because he believed everyone had a right to a fair trial. Adams was the one who suggested Jefferson write the Declaration of Independence. Edwards can elevate trial lawyers and attack the administration at the same time with respect to the detentions.

[trumad]

1. I think Johns going to do exactly that.

[JimmyJazz]

2. Anyone want to lay odds that when Cheney starts to speak, he

will immediately comment on Edwards' skills as a trial lawyer and his own inability to be so glib?

[JuniorPlankton]

3. Very high

It would be an intelligent defensive maneuver on Cheney's part.

[skylarmae]

4. I'm glad to see someone refer to Cheney as 'CRIMINAL'

He tries to come off as the kindly grandfather, when actually
the old carpetbagger. Let us not forget how he did business with
our enemies at times when specific bans were in place.

[Norquist Nemesis]

5. One thing he needs to do is be sure to put Kerry in front

as the decision maker that he strongly and fully supports.

Cheney is going to try and ding him on his votes and statements. Of course, Edwards can come right back at Cheney with tons of the same...the difference is Cheney always says "I support the President" or "The President makes the decisions".

Edwards has to make it clear the it's Kerry in charge.

I think he's going to do great!