September 19, 2006 in Idaho

Debate points: Sali’s calm a surprise; Grant personable

• Print
• Email
• Share

Bill Sali won his first congressional debate with Demo Larry Grant simply because he didn’t lose it. The Repub Idaho rep eschewed his trademark in-your-face tactics with Grant at North Idaho College Friday night – and surprised pundits, including astute political scribe Randy Stapilus. Blogged Stapilus afterward: “Sali’s performance … was simply the best piece of sustained public speaking we’ve ever seen from him.” Sali, who was called “an idiot” by House Speaker Bruce Newcomb earlier this year, came across as “cool and mainstream,” according to Stapilus, who literally has written the book(s) on Idaho politics. “Sali defined himself in a way that completely contradicted every news report this year about how difficult he, as a legislator, has been to work with.” Stapilus predicted victory for Sali in Red State Idaho if he keeps his cool in the next two or three debates. Stapilus had good words for Grant, too, noting that the ex-Micron Technology legal eagle started slowly but got better with each question, ending with passion. Grant passed Dan Gookin’s press-the-flesh test after the debate. Gookin had this to say on Huckleberries Online after he introduced himself to both men: “Grant impressed me more, and showed more charisma than Sali did. Sali actually began backing up away from me when I asked some pointed questions. That was a true turn-off.” Grant gave me his personal cell phone number. Sali shook hands and quickly walked away before I could speak. Of such things are votes won and lost, one handshake at a time.

No comments on this story so far. Add yours!