The Republican New Hampshire debate held October 11, 2011 included the top eight contenders vying for the right to represent the Republican party to Challenge President Obama for a second term in November 2012.

The debate was particularly contentious at times except when Romney tossed an obvious softball question to Michele Bachmann, completely changing the mood, asking her what she would do to revive the economy. Romney displayed his usual slippery debate mode, Paul was his usual libertarian self, and Gingrich continued his bomb throwing to get attention. Cain's 999 plan came under attack most likely due to his recent rise in the national polls.

The big loser of the night was again Rick Perry. who seemed meek compared to Romney's over aggressive style. It was a loss he could ill aford to lose.

Perry defends support of Gore campaign, spending

Rep. Michele Bachmann asked fellow GOP presidential candidate Gov. Rick Perry how voters could be sure he would not follow in Obama's spending footsteps. (Oct. 11) (The Washington Post-Bloomberg)

 

Herman Cain to Ron Paul: I did not call you ignorant

Herman Cain told Rep. Ron Paul he never called Paul nor his supporters 'ignorant' and responded to criticism of his time working for the Federal Reserve. (Oct. 11) (The Washington Post-Bloomberg)

 Candidates talk about trade with China

During The Washington Post-Bloomberg GOP presidential candidate debate at Dartmouth College, the candidates talk about a trade war with China and what the United States can do to even the trade deficit facing the country. (The Washington Post-Bloomberg)

 Bachmann on 999 plan: 'Devil's in the details'

Rep. Michele Bachmann took a shot at Herman Cain's 999 plan, saying when you turn it upside-down, the devil is in the details. (Oct. 11) (The Washington Post-Bloomberg)

 Washington Post debate analysis

Washington Post reporters Dan Balz, Chris Cillizza and Karen Tumulty discuss key takeaways from The Washington Post-Bloomberg debate in New Hampshire on Tuesday night. (Oct. 11) (Kristen Boghosian and AJ Chavar/The Washington Post)

Fox News debate analysis

Who Won Tuesday Night’s GOP Debate in New Hampshire?

MSNBC's The Ed Show's Debate Analysis

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