A question about NAFTA to Thompson leads to a pledge to support free and fair trade, a couple lines hitting Mexico for okaying illegal immigration, and the line ”I have nothing in particular to point out.” That sort of line is going to convince people he’s either a breath of fresh air, without any compulsion to blather at length… or a man who wasn’t terribly interested in the details of NAFTA policy as a senator, isn’t terribly interested as a candidate, and wouldn’t be as president.

Finally, Fred wakes up and shows a little passion: “When the enemies of this country are at the negotiating table, who do you want representing you? Whoever that guy is, that’s the guy you ought to vote for for President.” One of his stronger moments.

Asked for a show of hands on global warming, Thompson finally stands up. “I’m not doing any hand shows today.” A few folks applaud.

Fred: You gonna give me a minute to answer it?

Moderator: No.

Fred: Then I’m not gonna answer it.

This gets a smattering of applause. And yup, I’m applauding at home. This is a stupid form of debate, being organized in a stupid manner by folks who are either stupid, or trying to hurt the image of the candidates on stage.