The Backroom

Romney questions why Obama spent the first part of his term driving through Obamacare without Republican support that divided not united. Obamacare, he says, kills jobs. Why is he fighting for Obamacare, rather than for jobs, Romney asks. Obama touted the benefits of the program, including insurance companies now can’t “jerk you around.”  Then he points to … Continue Reading →

The biggest disagreements so far have come on Medicare. Romney says Obama hurt current seniors by cutting $716 billion from Medicare program that means hospitals and doctors will have to limit Medicare patients. He calls the cuts “a mistake.” Obama responds the costs savings in Medicare extend the life of the senior health care program … Continue Reading →

Obama admits he’s grown to like the once Republican slam for his health care law, Obamacare. “I have become fond of this term.” Obama says he also largely agrees with Romney on Social Security, believing it doesn’t need structural changes, but tweaks, to preserve the entitlement program.  But there’s big disagreements on Medicare …  

On the deficit, Obama repeated that he wants a balanced approach with new tax revenue and as well as program cuts. For every $2.50 in cuts, he proposes $1 in new tax revenue. With a balanced approach, Obama says, the U.S. can still make investments in education and for young people. Romney, however, says he’s ruled out … Continue Reading →

Romney describes deficit reduction plans and mentions he’d cut taxpayer subsidy to PBS, although he likes Big Bird. Moderator Jim Lehrer works for PBS. “Sorry, Jim, I’m going to stop the subsidy.”  

Next big issue is taxes. Obama and Romney spar over how to define Romney’s tax plan, where he says he wants to lower tax rates 20 percent. Romney says Obama’s description of his tax plan is inaccurate: “I’m not looking for a five trillion tax cut.”  He says says he’s used to fudging the truth and … Continue Reading →

First question has to deal with creating new jobs. Obama talks about the terrible economy at the start of his presidency but says we’ve began “to fight our way back.” The auto industry has come “roaring back.” Now, the “the question is not where we’ve been but where we’re going.” Obama talked about embracing a … Continue Reading →

Obama starts debate wishing his wife a happy anniversary and pledges a year from now they won’t be celebrating before 40 million viewers. Romney also congratulates the couple and quips: I’m sure this is the most romantic place you could imagine here with me.