In response to the birther question: He should have simply replied, to coin a phrase, “At this point, what difference does it make”.
Good response
“We are not here to debate the personal life of Barack Hussein Obama. He is not a candidate for the presidency of the US. I have made my final statement of opinion on this matter you raise, and it is on the record. My staff has provided you a copy of my statement if you would like to read it aloud - or I will at this time.
Mr. Obama is leaving office in January and we are here to discuss what will follow. We need to discuss the issues that concern the average working American and we need to get on with letting them know where we stand on the issues that affect them every day and will affect their children”
Next question
Ding, ding, ding!! A winner come back, for sure. :-)