We have excellent candidates. They deserve to have their voices heard. Of tonight's participants, McCain has established himself as the leading alternative to Bush. In addition to his strong showing in the New Hampshire polls, McCain is running strong in South Carolina. Both states will make their presidential picks before Arizona's February 22 primary.
Candidates face different challenges Each candidate faces different challenges with voters.
Bush is the top elected official of a large state. But he needs to persuade voters he can lead effectively at a national and international level. Debates allow candidates to share those ideas with voters, he said. McCain has worked on national and international issues, but as a member of Congress. He needs to show voters he is prepared to lead.