Collegian staffers weigh in after attending Santorum-Casey debate: Santorum

By Dan Sandiford
Collegian Staff
October 18, 2006

After a heated debate last Tuesday in Pittsburgh and an intense morning debate on KYW radio, the table was set for Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., and challenger Democrat Bob Casey, Jr. to face off in one more live debate in front of the Commonwealth. Santorum shined brightly throughout the debate as Casey played his normal role of dipping, ducking and dodging from the major issues that matter to the people of Pennsylvania.

In the earlier portion of the debate the candidates faced off on the issues of terrorism, the Iraq War and Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. Santorum highlighted his plan for improving our defenses in the event of a North Korean or Iranian threat. He pointed out our need for a missile defense system, more bunker busting bombs and other additional weaponry. With North Korea and Iran’s recent behavior, it is clear that steps need to be taken to ensure that the American people are protected from these growing threats. It is clear that Santorum has our best interest in mind by supporting funding for these various defense projects.

The issue of Iran and the term “Islamic fascism” played a major role in this debate as well. Santorum made it clear that we must take a very firm stance against Iran to ensure our safety. He sponsored the “Iran Freedom of Support Act,” a plan that has put him at odds with the Bush Administration, but also a plan that will offer a common sense solution to the Iranian problem. His solution is simple: we must address the fact that they are a major cause behind the problems in the Middle East, impose and enforce sanctions on them and support pro-democracy groups within the country.

Santorum also pointed out the merits of using the term “Islamic fascism.” He points out that terrorism isn’t a group or ideology; instead, it is a tactic much like a blitzkrieg. We were not at war with blitzkrieg in World War II. He pointed out that we need to know who we are fighting so that we can win this fight and save American lives.

Finally, on domestic issues, Santorum pointed out his proven track record of bringing jobs to the Commonwealth. He has made it his top priority to ensure that the maximum amount of federal dollars come in to help start projects that will yield to additional jobs. He offered solid solutions to reducing the budget deficit, ethics reform and Social Security, while Casey danced around those issues with accusations and less than straightforward answers. The choice is clear: Santorum won this debate.

sandifordd1@lasalle.edu