THE EXECUTIVES ANDS THE PIPSQUEAKS:

At first GOP debate, substance and Obama bashing (Jan Crawford , 5/06/11, CBS news)

Sure, the top contenders weren't there, but so what? In this debate, there were substantive moments on foreign policy and the economy, lively responses on social issues and ample opportunity for these five potential candidates to bash President Obama, defend past Republican presidents and explain their own views and potential weaknesses.

And there were two winners: Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and businessman Herman Cain. Both clearly benefited from the small group on stage -- because they were able to assume roles they can take with them for a while, and they didn't have much competition to get them.

Without former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney on the stage, Pawlenty came across as a serious presidential candidate. He hit Obama hard, but gave him credit for directing the raid that killed Osama bin Laden. He was substantive and informed. And he managed to introduce himself to viewers by talking about how he grew up in a blue-collar meatpacking town in a family of union members.

And without Donald Trump on the stage, Cain assumed the mantle of the straight-talking successful businessman who can fix the mess Washington has got the country in. He was hazy on details, and is the longest of long shots to win. But for now he can send a message: Washington politicians are a disgrace, and it's going to take an outsider to tell it like it is and clean the place up.

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