The moderator commented on the large number of people killed in Syria and asked for commentary.
Biden pointed to a huge geographic area with a fifth the population. The biggest
population in Syria is in the most dangerous area. The United States is working
with the Turks, Jordanians and Saudi Arabians on a post Syria plan. Biden felt that 100,000 of our troops would be needed if the situation deteriorated any further and that Romney probably wouldn't do anything differently. Biden indicated that we don't go through the UN and that our allies were on the same page as far as getting a settlement. Ryan criticized outsourcing our policy implementation to the United Nations. He fears that countries like Russia would thwart our efforts. Ryan criticized Assad for slaughtering his own people. At bottom, we need a better plan from our allies. If we wait for the UN, more Syrians will die. The United States should not put our troops in unless to secure chemical weapons. He criticized Iran for flying over Iraq to supply the Syrians with weaponry. Ryan supports the embargo and even sanctions.
The moderator asked about the role of religion on questions like abortion.
Ryan explained that he could not separate public from private life. He would like people to have a chance at life. He cited seeing his own first born just 7 weeks into life. Ryan opposes abortion, with rare exceptions, such as rape. He fears infringement on churches who might be required to sue the government. In addition, Ryan fears unelected judges making abortion decisions. Biden indicated that he is a practicing Catholic but he cannot tell women what
to do with their own bodies. He stated that no Catholic hospital is required to pay for contraception and that's a fact.
The moderator asked for closing arguments.
Biden indicated that there was a sacred obligation not to put people into harm's way. He challenged the audience to think about whether or not Romney or Obama can restore the middle class. Biden criticized Ryan budgets which cut Medicare and took $450 billion out of education. He criticized increased tax cuts to the wealthy and two wars put on our credit card. Biden stated that whatever he says, he will do. He would like to level the playing field for the middle class. Biden would bring relief to people who need our help.
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