Opinion: Why a debate format change is necessary
The Presidential debates have historically showcased a lively discussion indicative of a healthy democracy. Orderly opposition is the means of meaningful progression. The ability to clearly articulate a different point of view is the bedrock of American democracy. Even the Constitution resulted from clashing ideas and compromise.
Ever since the first televised debates in 1960 between Kennedy and Nixon, the debates have been an impactful experience for voters. They are a time-honored tradition that Americans have grown accustomed to viewing during election season since 1976. The debates allow candidates to present their beliefs and policies, and the American people to become more educated on issues, comportment, and temperament – all those things upon which they will cast their votes.
On Sept. 29, more than 73 million Americans watched as President Donald Trump pilfered their right to hear a meaningful discussion. Seventy-three million Americans watched the debate, presumably hoping to become more educated on the issues. Trump quickly turned this opportunity to advance our democracy into a mockery of it.
Donald Trump interrupted the moderator Chris Wallace and Vice President Biden a whopping 128 times. He was so unruly that the moderator had to repeatedly remind him of the rules his campaign agreed to before the debate. At one point, Wallace had to plead with the President saying, “I think that the country would be better served if we allowed both people to speak without interruptions. I’m appealing to you sir to do that.” Trump seemed to think he was projecting strength by yelling, insulting, and agitating. But loudness and vulgarity are not strengths. They are the hallmarks of bullies. Honesty projects strength. So does integrity.
Democratic nominee John F. Kennedy gestures as Republican nominee Richard Nixon watches him from the other podium on the debate stage. The two are standing at reciprocal podiums on a stage in an ABC studio in 1960. (Sourced from Wikimedia Commons. Photo by Associated Press/public domain)
As always, honesty was not in Trump’s toolbox. He lied unabashedly about his record, plans for the future, and the safety of the 2020 election. He further threatened American democracy by trying to discourage voters from making their voices heard on November 3rd. He also refused to commit to a peaceful transfer of power should Biden win in November.
The Commission on Presidential Debates has decided that to protect the American people’s time, our democratic traditions and the safety of the candidates the debate format should be changed. Biden has agreed to the new terms but Trump has refused.
This should be concerning to Americans because, by refusing to submit to the new commission terms, or to abide by the old ones for that matter, Trump is tearing at the fabric of our nation. The debates are a service to the people that no candidate or incumbent should threaten.
Trump will not follow rules because chaos is his only strategy. He wants to distract from legitimate discussion because he has nothing legitimate to say. His only purpose on the stage was to ensure that nothing useful happened. The president constantly interrupted his challenger, former Vice President Joe Biden to ensure neither candidate could drive home a message.
Voters have a right to a purposeful debate. Candidates should have to answer questions clearly and transparently. If asked to denounce white supremacy, they should do so quickly. How hard is that?
Only one person should talk at a time. Penalties should be enforced if a candidate repeatedly violates the agreed-upon rules because the debates are in service of the people.
And isn’t that what a president is supposed to do — serve the people?
The Commission on Presidential Debates is right to work towards a more productive format and any candidate opposed is doing a disservice to those whose votes they seek.
Addy Kirkham is a senior studying English with an emphasis in literary analysis. She enjoys reading, running, and mountain biking.
addy.kirkham@usu.edu