A presidential debate is an opportunity for candidates to set the stage for the rest of their campaigns and for voters to get a better sense of the candidates’ strengths, weaknesses and policies. It is often one of the most important events in a campaign and can make or break a candidacy. However, it can also be a major source of controversy and confusion.
A successful debater must carefully balance appealing to his or her base while trying to reach undecided or swing voters. It is a difficult task, and both candidates struggled in this regard. For example, Harris had to explain her shift on fracking while also reassuring the base that she would protect gun rights and not take away anybody’s guns. Meanwhile, Trump’s aides had to encourage him to fight Kamala but also to avoid straying too far from the script. He ended up defending his support for abortion in the ninth month and repeated a bizarre story about immigrants stealing people’s pets.
Traditionally, debates are sponsored by the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) and negotiated with both candidates’ campaigns. The format varies – the candidates may stand across from each other on stage, sit at the same table or be in a studio audience. They are generally moderated by a moderator or panelists, and there is usually an audience to ask questions.
The CPD is an independent organization that has a unique responsibility to oversee the process. The most successful debates have a clear structure, a neutral setting and clear rules for the participants to follow. They have become an integral part of the American political landscape and are widely regarded as a significant tool in civic education and public policy discussion.
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