DEBATE TONIGHT – NO WEAPONS ALLOWED – AT 8:29 A.M. ET:  The first serious debate of the presidential campaign will be held tonight in New Hampshire.  There was a debate some weeks ago, but the big guys didn't show up.  This one will be different.

We're hoping for something out of "West Side Story," but Republicans are too polite.  From the Manchester Union-Leader:

GOFFSTOWN — Candidates seeking the Republican Party nomination for the 2012 presidential election have a chance at a debate tonight to find differences, however subtle, to separate themselves from the pack.

The debate is sponsored by the New Hampshire Union Leader, CNN and WMUR and runs tonight from 8 to 10 p.m. at St. Anselm College's Sullivan Arena.

Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann, businessman Herman Cain, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Texas Rep. Ron Paul, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum are scheduled to participate.

Tonight's debate is the second among Republicans who either are presidential candidates or are considering a run, though Romney, Gingrich and Bachmann did not participate in the first forum, held May 5 in Greenville, S.C., and hosted by Fox News and the South Carolina Republican Party.

Still, two heavyweights won't be on the playbill – Sarah Palin and Texas Governor Rick Perry, who looks like he may make the plunge.  Others mentioned by the Great Mentioner are Congressman Paul Ryan, who says he's not running, and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who says he's definitely not running.

What to look for tonight:  First, a pulse.  We want to be sure our candidate has one.  It's not always the case.  Second, practical solutions to problems the nation actually feels.  Third...and this really is critical, a style and approach that appeals to independents, because they will determine the election.

We will watch, and report.

June 13, 2011