A success story for debating Obamas policies with moderate supporters

Just wanted to share some of my experiences in succesfully debating with some people that voted for President Obama.

I share an office with 6 Obama supporters. On election day each and every one of them came by my office space and took a few shots at me for supporting McCain. One of them told me he was going home, going to cook popcorn, and watch the "bloodbath" with joyful glee.

I have since noticed that three of them, while still supporting Obama somewhat, are starting to turn. The following are some lessons learned when debating with them and others I know:

#1. It does no good to call Obama a "socialist" even though that is what you may believe. Once you say the dreaded "S" word his moderate supporters will tend not to listen to anything else you say. Show the office of President some respect and refer to him as President Obama(some may have to bite your lip a little but it is for the greater good).

#2 Stick to the facts of his policies, proposals, declarations and speeches etc. The liberals tend to take liberties with facts and we should not stoop to their level. There are many facts to his policies that people will not like and are probably not aware.

#3 Use whatever you may know about a person and target the conversation to something they can relate too. For example if you know the person owns a home they can afford, you may want to explain Obama's homeowner bailout policy. As always facts are the best weapon.

#4 You have to face facts that some people really want Obamas policies and time may be better served on others more moderate. You will know these people when you speak with them.

#5 It does not hurt to compliment Obama, you will get more people's ear this way. Not everything he does is horrible(Non policy issues anyways). You may say; "It appears Obama was received really well in Europe. Hopefully he can bring about a better relationship with other countries. I am, though, concerned about President Obama's position on having the International Monetery Fund regulating financial institutions here in America" . Something along those lines will get many people's ear.

#6 Listen to what people have to say when they are defending Obama. I have noticed little if any Obama supporters defending his policies on the merits. They generally blame the Bush Administration because that is what many people were told. Keep in mind this is not about defending President Bush, this is about explaining Obamas bad policies. A good response may be; "I too am disappointed with some of President Bush's policies. I would like to note that President Obama promised fiscal responsibility, yet, he is planning on adding more debt in two years than President Bush did in 8 years. Please do not take my word for it, look at the non-partisan CBO budget report."

#7 Invite whomever you are speaking with to do their own research. Avoid any reference to Fox News since the liberals have done well with minimizing them as legitimate news source. For example Wikepedia is a good reference for the so-called stimulus package and the homeowner bailout package. Essentially avoid referencing sources that may raise red flags.