CBS Republican Debate: Live Coverage

I would agree with Harry that it’s a lot easier to fall flat on your face in a debate — which is pretty much what Rubio did the other night. We were all so shocked by it because we seem to expect that they’ll all be so rehearsed and polished by the time they take the debate stage. When the practiced moments are punctured, like they were last week by Chis Christie, we are all reminded that this is on some level very much theater, and we find it a bit unsettling.

Rubio has plenty of opportunity to make up ground if Trump falls after this seemingly troubled debate performance. But I think Cruz may also gain ground.

It’s much easier to have a blunder than a great moment in a debate, in my opinion. We remember the blunders more than the strong moments. That said, my answer is always the same: Wait for the polls.