The Truth About Debates
If I recall correctly, the first time I was involved in organizing a political debate was some three dozen years ago, a race for Congress. And I’ve been involved pretty extensively over the past decade, as an organizer, moderator or questioner…for governor in 2010, Congress in 2012, Senate in 2014, Congress in 2016, Congress in 2018. And I was scheduled to be at the table for Senate and Congressional debates this cycle except for one party’s strategy of not debating.
But here’s a little secret…they’re pretty well worthless exercises, especially these days.
It’s hard to win a debate, but awfully easy to lose one. And that’s how most candidates approach them…there’s not much to be gained, but a mistake can hurt a candidacy. So increasingly, they avoid them altogether, or come to the table trying not to lose and being safe.
Their lack of impact is even truer now in an age of extreme polarization. Roughly 90 percent of Americans say they’ve made up their minds on who they would vote for, so any debates are focused on those who are undecided…likely those who are just now starting to pay attention.
But here may be one positive outcome of debates…they may lead to voter suppression. Here’s what I mean; let’s say you are a Biden supporter, but he has an awful night. You aren’t swayed to cross over to the Trump side, but you might be less inclined to show up and vote.
So now, instead of just being a way to help undecideds make up their minds, debates are a way for candidates to solidify their bases and ensure their supporters show up on November 3rd.
Regardless, from experience, may I respectfully suggest that these are herculean efforts to organize, somewhat pressure-filled to carry out…and yet in the end, not really worth it.
