Deck 16: Presidential Debates and Postscript

Question 1

Write an essay proposing a new, alternative format for presidential debates. In your response, take into account the various strengths and weaknesses of common current formats.

Answer 1

Presidential debates are a crucial part of the democratic process, allowing voters to hear directly from the candidates and make informed decisions. However, the current format of these debates has several strengths and weaknesses that need to be addressed. In order to improve the quality and effectiveness of presidential debates, I propose a new, alternative format that takes into account these strengths and weaknesses.

One common format for presidential debates is the traditional podium-style debate, where candidates stand behind podiums and answer questions from a moderator. This format allows for direct interaction between the candidates and gives viewers a chance to see how they handle pressure. However, it can also lead to a lack of substantive discussion, as candidates often resort to soundbites and talking points rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue.

Another common format is the town hall-style debate, where candidates take questions from audience members. This format allows for a more personal connection between the candidates and voters, but it can also lead to a lack of focus and control, as audience members may ask unrelated or frivolous questions.

In order to address these weaknesses and build on the strengths of current formats, I propose a new format for presidential debates: the structured dialogue debate. In this format, candidates would engage in a series of structured, in-depth discussions on specific policy issues. Each debate would focus on a different topic, such as healthcare, immigration, or foreign policy, and candidates would be given ample time to present their positions and engage in meaningful back-and-forth discussion.

To ensure that the debates remain focused and substantive, a skilled moderator would guide the discussion and keep the candidates on track. This format would allow for a deeper exploration of the candidates' policy proposals and their ability to engage in thoughtful, informed debate. It would also provide voters with a clearer understanding of where the candidates stand on important issues and how they would address them as president.

In addition to the structured dialogue format, I also propose incorporating new technologies into the debates, such as real-time fact-checking and interactive audience participation. This would help ensure that candidates are held accountable for their statements and that voters have a more active role in the debate process.

Overall, the structured dialogue debate format would address the weaknesses of current formats by promoting substantive discussion and informed debate, while building on the strengths of direct candidate interaction and audience engagement. By implementing this new format, we can improve the quality and effectiveness of presidential debates, ultimately leading to a more informed electorate and a stronger democracy.

Question 2

What influence has television as a medium played in the significance and impact of presidential debates since 1960, and how might we expect the growing influence of social media to affect debates in the near future?

Answer 2

Television has had a significant influence on the significance and impact of presidential debates since 1960. The first televised presidential debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon in 1960 is often cited as a turning point in American politics. Kennedy's telegenic appearance and confident demeanor on television contrasted with Nixon's sweaty and nervous appearance, leading many to believe that Kennedy won the debate. This highlighted the importance of appearance and presentation in televised debates, and has since influenced how candidates prepare for and approach these events.

Television has also allowed for a wider audience to view and engage with presidential debates, making them a crucial part of the election process. Candidates are able to reach millions of viewers and present their policies and ideas directly to the public, shaping public opinion and influencing voter decisions.

As for the growing influence of social media, we can expect it to have a significant impact on debates in the near future. Social media platforms provide a new avenue for candidates to reach and engage with voters, allowing for real-time interaction and feedback. This can potentially change the dynamics of debates, as candidates may need to be more responsive to public opinion and address issues that gain traction on social media.

Additionally, the spread of misinformation and the potential for echo chambers on social media could also impact how debates are perceived and the information that voters are exposed to. Candidates may need to navigate this landscape carefully and be prepared to address and counter false information that may spread rapidly on social media.

Overall, the growing influence of social media is likely to change the way presidential debates are conducted and perceived, and candidates will need to adapt to this new media landscape in order to effectively communicate their message to voters.

Question 3

In which presidential debate format do the candidates answer questions from an audience, frequently composed of undecided voters?

A) Press conference
B) Single moderator
C) Town hall
D) Parliament-style
E) National contest

Answer 3

Town hall

Question 4

The first televised presidential debate was held between:

A) Eisenhower & Stevenson
B) Kennedy & Nixon
C) Nixon & Humphrey
D) Carter & Ford
E) Reagan & Carter

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT a research-backed example of an effect of presidential debates?

A) Presidential debates increase exposure to the candidates
B) Presidential debates increase political efficacy among viewers
C) Presidential debates challenge viewers' preexisting attitudes toward candidates
D) News media verdicts about the winner can influence voters' attitudes.
E) None of the above; all of the above are research-backed examples of the effects of presidential debates.