You Tube-CNN US Presidential debate

Did anyone catch the You Tube-CNN US Presidential debate for the Democratic candidates? I did and I thought it was bloody excellent! For those who don't know, basically it had the candidates from the Democratic party answering questions sent in by the public via You Tube. I thought it was great that they answered questions that seemed to reflect what is important to the average person living on the street. Now, I'm sure that all the candidates had practiced beforehand what they would say if a certain 'hot' topic was asked (healthcare, gun control, abortion, etc) but there was the occasional curler out there. (Sheesh ... sounds like what I need to do for my viva exam, when I do eventually qualify for them). Overall, they all seemed pretty articulate and knew what they were talking about. The Republican equivalent will be held at some point I think.

Now, why should I comment about the US presidential debate? 2 reasons:

1. The leader of the US is the most powerful person in the world, like it or not. The cynic in me might argue that he (or she?) is merely the puppet whose strings are being pulled by big corporations (or whoever else has donated millions to their campaign fund). Nevertheless, decisions made by the US President affects the entire world. If only non-Americans got to vote there as well :)

2. It pisses me off that many of the MPs in Malaysia behave like immature imbeciles. Viewed a few clips the other day on You Tube, showing parliamentry proceedings, and I was gobsmacked. Some of these cretins (apologies to anyone with congenital hypothyroidism) were just, well, horrible. Shouting, making racist and sexist comments, threatening other MPs, etc. If they can't win an argument, they resort to childish behaviour. Just about all of these idiots come from the ruling party and think they can do/say whatever they please with impunity. I firmly believe that absolute power corrupts absolutely - and the Barisan Nasional (National Front) have been in power since 1955. They've been reelected every time for various reasons, in an unlevel playing field. Having said that, the opposition hasn't shown any proof that they could organise a freakin' birthday party, let alone a functional government (heard of a shadow cabinet anyone? - not in Malaysia). Ok, I'm starting to rant now (a lot more could be written about this). My point is, if the politicians in Malaysia could only have half the tact and knowledge that I saw on tv earlier today, I'd have a lot more confidence in the government's actions.