Saturday nights are for parties, friends, and trips to the movies. Politics? Hardly. Yet, the Democratic National Committee decided to schedule the second Democratic presidential debate for tonight in Iowa. Because of the stunning tragedy in Paris, the debate discussion has been modified to focus largely on foreign policy and national security. The RNC, unsurprisingly, believes the Democrats' decision to host a debate on the weekend is an obvious attempt to shield Hillary Clinton from any kind of challenge on her path to the primary. Here's Communications Director Sean Spicer's take on it:
If a tree falls in the middle of the forest and nobody hears it, did it really fall? That question lingers over tomorrow night’s Democrat debate in Des Moines, which was purposely scheduled by the DNC to ensure low viewership to protect Hillary Clinton.
Oh, and the event is also taking place the same night the Iowa Hawkeye football team is playing, sure to be a popular game because the fifth placed team is fighting for a place in the national championship. Odds are it is also going to be more competitive than the Democratic primary.
Surely, this debate comes at an inopportune time for Clinton, considering the FBI just announced it is expanding its investigation of her emails. She may also have to answer for a new poll that reveals a whopping 68 percent of voters say her use of a private server was 'unethical.'
Democrats who wanted a real contest and exchange of ideas are being shortchanged. This has become a primary in name only, rigged to benefit Hillary Clinton. But the lack of a serious race will only hurt Clinton in the long run. Clinton won’t be tested, and she won’t be forced to defend some of her biggest weaknesses: her untrustworthiness, likeability, and the perception she’s not honest.
Republicans aren't the only ones criticizing the DNC's obvious campaign for Hillary. Former Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley has demanded more debates, insisting the current 'rigged' schedule is a disservice to voters. DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz, however, has refused to budge.
What does it say about the Democratic leadership's confidence in their frontrunner when they feel the need to shield her from public scrutiny?
It's nonexistent.
The second debate takes place on CBS at 9 p.m. Not that you'll be watching.