Behind the scenes at the GOP debate

MANCHESTER, N.H. – Seven of the remaining Republican candidates took the stage Saturday at St. Anselm College, for the final debate before Tuesday’s New Hampshire Primary.

Members of the media took their seats in the grandiose filing room at the Google-sponsored GOP debate. The center of the massive room was left open to serve its other purpose — transforming into the spin room.

 

Television screens displayed the latest maps, charts and polls to reflect reaction and participation from viewers during the debate.

Members of the media intently watched the debate as they worked on stories, updated social media and reported to the public. There were no empty seats at the strictly credentialed event.

Each of the major news networks called a booth like this home for the evening, producing live interviews with candidates after the debate.

Ohio Gov. John Kasich took some questions after his interview with Fox News, saying he’s optimistic about Tuesday’s vote despite his poor performance in the Iowa Caucus. He says he appeals more to the independent voters of New Hampshire.

Dr. Ben Carson spoke with reporters in his naturally soft-spoken manner. While crowds of journalists were interested in what he had to say, he didn’t get as much attention as other candidates.

Candidates weren’t  the only people walking the spin room floor. Melania Trump and Donald Trump Jr. were on hand, and crowds were eager to get a closeup view of the family.

Donald Trump drew large numbers of reporters as the GOP frontrunner, including “the king of the Daily Mail.” Journalists pushed their way to the front in the hope of getting a question; only a few were lucky enough to get a camera or microphone in on the action.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., spoke to student journalists from American University on behalf of Jeb Bush. The former presidential contender said that Bush got his message across effectively and will poll well because people trust him, knowing that “he’s not going to do anything crazy.”

The GOP debate was full of winners and losers, members of the media and individuals hoping to learn. The buzz of the atmosphere provided pictures, stories and memories – something for everyone.