Politics

Oops: RNC Candidate Names Favorite Bar — Not Favorite Book — During Debate

Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:27pm by Meredith Jessup
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The race to be the next chair of the Republican National Committee heated up Monday after the five candidates gathered for spirited debate at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The committee’s 168 members plan to vote Jan. 14 on who will lead the party for the next two years and whether the current chairman, Michael Steele, deserves a “second chance.” Challenging Steele are Reince Priebus, Wisconsin GOP chair, Michigan GOP chair Saul Anuzis, former U.S. Ambassador to Luxembourg Ann Wagner and Bush administration veteran
Maria Cino.

Each of the candidates fielded questions on policy and politics, but it was Wagner who provided a light moment of laughter.

“Favorite bar? Probably my kitchen table,“ the former ambassador said after mishearing a ”favorite book” question from moderator Tucker Carlson. When she realized her error, Wagner said her favorite read is “Decision Points,” the recently released memoir from former President George W. Bush:

Other candidates got the same question. Steele joked that his favorite book was Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace,” a work he says is similar to his tenure as RNC chairman, claiming “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times” — a line actually lifted from Charles Dickens’ “A Tale of Two Cities.”

Cino’s favorite is the classic “To Kill a Mockingbird” and Priebus named “The Reagan Diaries” as his top choice.

Americans for Tax Reform president Grover Norquist also pointedly asked the candidates how many firearms each of them owned. Wagner said she owns 16 guns. Cino and Steele said they have none, Anuzis has four, and Priebus said he has five.

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Comments (68)

Down2TheC
Posted on January 4, 2011 at 1:59am
Reagan Diaries would be a great name for a bar.
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calijohn
Posted on January 4, 2011 at 1:50am
a truly palinesque moment.
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BringbackCoolidge
Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:53am
This isn’t news.
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donh2
Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:14am
Sounds like Wagner fits right in with Bush Jr. A real George Thorogood in the privacy of her own home. …. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftiJRiONy4o&playnext=1&list=PLCDD4CE0C3DDFBA1F&index=20
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ItsallaboutJesus
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 11:00pm
Some think it’s a non story but it made me laugh, and I haven’t heard that much to laugh about lately!
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palaver
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 10:13pm
How and who nominated these candidates? I’m reg. Republican and I don’t recall nominating anyone. I don’t recall anyone asking me for a name. There has got to be a delay in voting for a RNC leader We should be considering who else is out there. There is alot of resourses that I would like their opinions i.e. Hertitage Foundation, CPAC, many more. I got an e-mail from FreedomWorks asking me to vote on this and I honestly couldn‘t because I did’nt now them. Is there a rush for this position?
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DaveOregon
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 10:05pm
Lighweight moderator;lightweight question – and the relevence of even asking such a dumb question? I would have answered “Cheer’s” – best bar I never went to! Best book – really? I’ve got a lot of books I can mention – I read 4-6 novels a month of all genre’s – from biography (like Washington, Adams, Jefferson, etc) to thrillers or suspense. I don’t have a favorite unless you ask what the topic is or what type. Jesus wept people – ask some relevent questions or go find a job shoveling real sh%t – instead of dishing out this surreal sh%t and calling it news or information.
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Austin from boston
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:25pm
How about= Common Sense Christianity/ The ancients used the term “faith” for what we call common sense. It is common sense which acts as the wordless communication that Christians learn to follow & trust. Seeing by the light of common sense is like rightly hearing & understanding the silent word of God & doing it. There is no book or manual to teach a common sense approach to Christianity. It is a gift to every true seeker of the right way,available @fhu.com. Bottom-line of Life including every individual ever to post on this Blaze that think or know for sure: All Men are created equal, that they are ENDOWED by their Creator,& thank Christ,Mr.Beck & Company,my # 1-rabbi shall/will- always be Forever,Jesus-Christ;Send too all Friends & Enemies,Nation-Wide, Now.>>>>>>>Peace or stop Hating::::>>>Scan the entire fhu,site & Report 1 Falsehood-just One;>>
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bitterclinger
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:19pm
This is like putting up a field of cats and saying “vote for the best dog.” Cino was a lobbyist for ObamaCare and supports pro-abortion groups; she‘s also Tokyo Rove’s and Dana Perrino’s choice; Priebus’s law firm put out a statement that ObamaCare WAS constitutional — and he also made a boneheaded comment about Ann Wagner’s gender being a hindrance to her getting the job! He also did an internship in law school with the NAACP. Steele is a first-class doofus and HAS to go. I liked Wagner until someone pointed out her list of supporters includes a nasty Alaska RINO who instigated lots of trouble for Palin.

That leaves Anuzis, who I’ve heard nothing about either good or bad.
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DMD
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:02pm
Has anyone checked his ID?
Can we still do that in the USA?
Is he 21?
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treshall
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:55pm
Ann Wagner reports that she owns 16 guns? Please, Republicans, get a grip and go with the chick with the firepower- she obviously has an understanding of our concerns over 2nd Amendment rights and Lord knows we need someone who is actually aware and conscious of the U.S. Constitution.
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- ItsallaboutJesus
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 11:06pm
  Amen!
  Report Post »
1994bobbysgirl
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:40pm
My favorite book is (here comes some shameless self-promotion) “Why Am I Conservative? 24 Topics for Kids or Anyone” http://www.MelanieAngellElliott.com
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- 1994bobbysgirl
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:50pm
  And I believe those candidates would be better off for reading it. :-)
  Report Post »
- treshall
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:08pm
  The book looks great, Bobbysgirl, and Lord knows that such a text is badly needed by many Americans- perhaps you could send one to Pennsylvania Avenue? Good on you, girl! I will become a customer and thank you for your efforts to educate our children (and the rest of us, too). Best of luck with it :-)
  Report Post »
- teachermitch32
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 1:03pm
  Thankyou for that Bobbysgirl. This book really looks like a winner. will definitely buy!
  
  Perhaps you have plans for another that might target middle school and highschoolers…then another targeting those who are being brainwashed at higher levels of edumaction (ha, ha). Even another for those in our voting public who are apathetic, ignorant, disenfranchised or just of the liberal mindset (daim bramaged).
  Report Post »
556GreenTip
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:37pm
Please God, let a REAL CONSERVATIVE win this!
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NickDeringer
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:32pm
If the GOP thinks it’s going to be business as usual they are in for a BIG surprise.
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franknshadow
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:24pm
As if there could be a worse chairman than Steele.. Come on guys… Get some hair, and a clue.. Oh yeah, and a backbone…
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Agentuntomyself
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:22pm
Non-story. But really, Steele, if you are going to quote a classic, at least quote the right one. Sheesh.
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suzy000
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:07pm
As we get older and busier…it is our kitchen table where we get to relax in between duties of home and after hours work. She was right on target for most women over 40. Ann…you have my vote, girl!
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- forestnomad
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 11:17am
  Most women sit and drink at their kitchen table?
  
  Unlikely. Nice projection though.
  Report Post »
Gobomama
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:59pm
She didn’t give the name of a bar as her answer. Reading comprehension, people. She said “probably my kitchen table” which I would take to mean she either doesn‘t have a favorite or doesn’t go to many. Have to do some research as I know nothing about any of them.
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runninonempty
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:51pm
KEA… You’re right– at least one of them should have said, “The Bible.” I wonder if that’s the answer the panel was looking for….
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- Plankchapel
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:28pm
  Excellent point!
  Report Post »
ovrwlmd
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:51pm
Don‘t need someone else that doesn’t listen.
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NoMoreGray
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:48pm
Before you comment actually pay attention to what you read. SHE named a bar and SHE owns 16 guns. These days I wouldn’t have believed anyone who said the bible. I find these types of questions useless.
I would rather hear what they would do to support the will of the people voiced in November?
What do you think Steele should have done in the last year that he didn’t?
I’m sure you guys could do better than what book do you like, what questions would you want a potential RNC chair to answer?
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- byehlik
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:55pm
  I agree with your train of thought. No tough questions yet again. The RNC still does not get how truly serious a situation is brewing out here. They had better wake up and hear us, the American Public, or we will make’em hear us loud and clear, by force if need be.
  Report Post »
- treshall
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:03pm
  I surely would not pull a Baba Wawa on ‘em and ask, “If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?” Ridiculous claptrap has no place in a decision this important. If I were to pose a serious question, I would ask them their thoughts on supporting the repeal of Obamacare, as well as the other edicts and decrees handed down by the Moron Who Would Be King. I would also ask questions about the Constitution in an effort to determine their commitment to our sacred (and much ignored by aforementioned Moron) document. That would do for a start. How about you all? What would you ask?
  Report Post »
byehlik
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:41pm
Sorry, Gal with 16 guns……Misfire….
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KEA
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:39pm
Interesting NONE of them said the Bible. Very Disapointing!
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- byehlik
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:48pm
  The Bible is the great book. But your looking at proffessional establishment politicians here, none of these IMHO going to Heaven. I do not even think that they have read our Constitution let alone the Bible. Look at Steele’s shady performance of lies and redirect as well as deception. Enough said…
  Report Post »
byehlik
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:36pm
I’ll go with the guy with 16 guns. Anyone but Steele, he is a moron. Steele is nothing but the old guard from the beltway boys and needs to go because of his lack of respect for the grass roots. By, by Steele!
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- byehlik
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:42pm
  Gal with 16 guns…..whoops………..
  Report Post »
- Plankchapel
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:25pm
  I wrote to the RNC about a month ago and told them that I thought Sarah Palin should be the new Chair.
  
  I received a reply thanking me for my letter and that it would be presented to Chairman Steele at a meeting the next day.
  Report Post »
- untameable-kate
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 10:25pm
  PLANK,
  Sarah Palin would rock in that position, if they could get her.
  Report Post »
myfamily04
Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:31pm
Great…this is what the Repubs have to offer??? This guy better not get voted for.
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- IndyGuy
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:44pm
  My favorite bar???The one I’m gonna club the Commies in the White House with…
  Report Post »
- tower7femacamp
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:45pm
  another non story
  Report Post »
- tower7femacamp
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:46pm
  fiddle while Rome burns ….
  Report Post »
- snowleopard3200 {cat folk art}
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:48pm
  @Indyguy
  
  I prefer tanks, makes bigger holes in the walls and gets the attention of people at meetings real quick and nice.
  Report Post »
- FreedomAdvocate
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 6:51pm
  It was obvious she misheard the question, hardly a reason to be thrown out of office. Not really a story here.
  Report Post »
- StMichelob
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:07pm
  HEY! At least she owns the most guns! Now, next question: “present to us your best target at 75 feet using your most reliable pistol, and tell us what that pistol is”
  My personal best is a 1.5″ grouping of 5 rounds using a H&K .40 USP. At 75 feet.
  Best shot wins!
  STMICHELOB FOR RNC CHAIR!!!
  CAN I GET AN AMEN!
  Report Post »
- lylee
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:59pm
  It really does not matter. Just give to individual conservative candidates and forget about the RNC until they get the message.
- Plankchapel
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:19pm
  TOWER7FEMACAMP – I’m pleased to meet the new Managing Editor of The Blaze! However, I don‘t exactly agree with your opinion regarding what is relevant and what isn’t.
  
  I am interested in the candidates for the Republican Party’s Chair, their credentials, and coverage of their meeting.
  
  Why don’t you find a society page, the gardening section more to your liking, or MOVE ON dot ORG!
  Report Post »
- Plankchapel
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:22pm
  @StMichelob
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 7:07pm
  
  Amen!!!
  Report Post »
- walkwithme1966
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:22pm
  I think little Tucker Carlson is a very bad moderator!! http://maboulette.wordpress.com
- CatB
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 8:31pm
  She at least misheard the question .. .Steele answered and gave a quote from the wrong book .. which is worse? I would say the misquote.
  Report Post »
- KICKILLEGALSOUT
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 9:51pm
  The Republican party is done with, they might as well asked what their favorite bar is because that’s all they do in Washington is have their cocktail parties and sloppily sign away trillions of taxpayer dollars, our right to security and to enforce the law, and policies to increase government power and control over our lives. There are no real choices anymore, you choose evil or greater evil. The only chance there can be is if a 3rd party is formed that way the Socialists can run on their platform, the Republicans can run on their fake conservative platform and the Tea party can run on an authentic platform and support the people with real foundational American values!
  Report Post »
- CYCLONE
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 10:14pm
  @StMichelob… you got my vote brother !!!! ;-)
  Report Post »
- untameable-kate
  Posted on January 3, 2011 at 10:23pm
  STMICHELOB FOR RNC CHAIR!!!
  
  If you win that one you’ll get your date:)
  Report Post »
- Xcori8r
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:09am
  Bar in the kitchen, 16 guns.. the woman’s a keeper.
  Report Post »
- GrandmaPam
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:23am
  Don’t be so quick to throw stones–Ann Wagner did not hear the question clearly, but it appears you did not read and comprehend the article in your haste to reply.
  Report Post »
- StMichelob
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:37am
  @UNTAMABLE….IF i lose, can we still be “friends with benifits”?
  Report Post »
- StMichelob
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:57am
  @KICKILLEGALSOUT, Although you are right about the pre-2006 ‘republicans” I believe the tea party that you and i both support, will pull those rinos that were NOT ousted back in line with Reganomics, and solidify those 20-30 House Repubs who still held fast to Reagan’s conservative views (Pence especially….I’m a homer, he is my rep) We’ll see what happens the next two years, but i believe the Tea Party elect will hold enough power from the people to make both remaining RINOS and blue dogs fall in line with the Will of the People. Because if they DON’T, then they ALL know their feet will be held to the fire and they will get S*@TCANNED in 2012. We are watching their every move now, and they ByGod know it.
  Report Post »
- Balladeer
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 1:22am
  Looking at these losers all I can say is that ‘someone on our side…isn’t”
  Report Post »
- Cemoto78
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 8:21am
  Maybe the bar in her kitchen is really a B.A.R., Browning Automatic Rifle.
  
  And to StMichelob, AMEN.
  Report Post »
- Diamondback
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 10:22am
  @STMICHELOB:
  
  Just out of curiosity, was anyone shooting back while you shot that tight group?
  Report Post »
- StMichelob
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:36pm
  Well, ACTUALLY……um. no.
  Report Post »
- StMichelob
  Posted on January 4, 2011 at 12:44pm
  BUT your chances are still better in a firefight if you have that good a pistol and that good a natural aim.
  Report Post »

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