Ever since last night, seem to have this ringing in my ears that sounds sorta like, to quote the immortal Lou Reed, “politicians making crazy sounds.” Wonder what that’s about….
Here are some post-debate midday news/views snacky snackies:
* Ezra Klein shows, as I expected, that Fiorina’s rapid-fire heavily detailed national security comments last night will not survive fact-checking.
* Charlie Pierce’s take on the debates deals with the refusal of Republicans still celebrating W.’s triumphs to “hear the cries of the dead.”
* Viewership of the main debate, at 23 million, was a new ratings record for CNN, although a bit below ratings for the first debate on Fox. About 6 million watched the “J.V.” debate, which is still a lot for polling bottom-feeders.
* Meanwhile, influential Iowa Republican editor Craig Robinson had Rubio sharing the winner’s circle with Fiorina, which may mean he shares my feeling ol’ Marco is emerging as the probably Establishment favorite.
* At the Plum Line, Paul Waldman skillfully dissects the evolving GOP line on climate change: not flat denialism, but “too expensive” and “China has to go first” arguments for inaction.
And in non-political news:
* 8.3 magnitude earthquake hits northern Chile, creates tremors felt in Argentina and other South American countries.
As we break for lunch, here’s Hank Williams’ immortal tribute to Cajun food & fun: “Jambalaya.”
