Democrats face unpredictable queries from YouTube

CHARLESTON, South Carolina (Reuters) - Given the chance to say something bad about each other, Democratic presidential candidates largely ducked the question at a CNN/YouTube debate on Monday.

All former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards could muster about New York Sen. Hillary Clinton was to take a shot at her peach-coloured jacket.

"I'm not sure about that coat," Edwards said, prompting a burst of laughter from Clinton standing next to him.

Jason Koop of Colorado Springs, Colorado, prompted the exchange with a YouTube video question in which he said his intent was to "lighten up the mood a little bit" at the debate by asking each candidate to turn to his or her left and say something nice and bad about each other.

"You know let me say, I love all the candidates here," New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson said when it was his turn. "In fact, I think they would all do great in the White House as my vice president."

The unpredictable video questions, chosen among thousands submitted, were in stark contrast to the typically staid and often scripted nature of most presidential debates.

One man wanted to know if the candidates would support reparations for African Americans whose ancestors were slaves. (Most candidates did not support it.)

Then there was Jered Townsend, from Clio, Michigan, who asked the candidates their position on gun control.

As he held up a rifle, he said: "This is my baby, purchased under the 1994 gun ban. Please tell me your views."