Republicans To Debate On Twitter

Following yesterday’s post about the Republican candidates holding a Facebook debate, I find that they are also having a Twitter debate sponsored by TheTeaParty.net. Participants are allowed to answer with multiple tweets, but are encouraged to keep their answers brief.

The following candidates are participating: “Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, businessman Herman Cain, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Michigan Rep. Thad McCotter, former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum.”

The comments on this are obvious, from glee at holding answers from any politicians to 140 characters to how the simplistic ideas of the Tea Party are perfect for a 140 character response. That said, I question how good a medium Twitter is for serious debates or discussion of issues, often being frustrated on Twitter by its limitations.

I imagine that one way to see if Twitter could handle serious discussion would be to check out the recent Town Hall conducted by Barack Obama on Twitter. As I was traveling at the time I missed both the event and commentary on the event. Then again, even if Barack Obama was able to answer questions intelligibly, this is too much to expect from Republican candidates, on or off Twitter.

Quote of the Day

“An audio recording from five years ago has been released of Michele Bachmann predicting the end of the world. Her exact words were, ‘I’m going to run for president in 2012.'” –Conan O’Brien

Bachmann’s prediction can be seen here.