Miss Kolka

I feel I have to say more about the presidential debate - after hearing the reactions today and just the general aftermath following Royal and Sarkozy's televised confrontation- I have to say that once again my fellow citizens have surprised me - beyond belief.

Apparently Mr. Sarkozy's behaviour was apploaded - whether it was at his headquarters, in the street or even in the my own newsroom. People at work did seriously think that his appearence was flawless, especially since - and note this - he DID control himself and did not loose his temper. That was considered to be extra-ordinary.

While "madame" Royal like he refferred to her endlessly - not without some contempt in his voice - who was calm but very decisive, attacked Mr. Sarkozy's program, but never his person. The UMP candidate tried to destabilise Royal on several personal issues, like the relationship with the father of her children (which is also the secretay of the socialist party), and accused her of being too disdainful to be brilliant.

When it comes to the debate itself it was interesting - although a bit long 2 hours 44 minutes. Typical issues like crime and security were adressed, as well as health and education but weirdly the parts I retained where on the women of France who have difficulties raising their children and curiously there was no mention of the fathers. The issue of childcare appartently only concernes women and is their main problem in political livelyhood. I was astonished to hear Mme Royal continuing the debate and saying that women would not have the time to go to trial to get nursery school placements for their children - a proposition by Mister Sarkozy to deal with the 2 million children without care in France.

So many things to say - but not enough energy and honestly, since Im not as optimistic as I would have liked to be for next sunday, I might just watch and hope - just hope that this time France will have the courage to change its traditions and move forward.

Its not like I can do anything - since Im not allowed to vote in the second round - bloody paperwork! 

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