Political debate provides a forum for candidates to explain their views and positions. It increases political accountability, requiring candidates to articulate their positions, which allows voters to evaluate them side-by-side and makes it easier for citizens to hold politicians accountable for their decisions. In addition, debates expose policy flaws that can be difficult to discern in 30-second television advertisements or five-minute conversations with a college intern canvassing for the campaign.
Political discussion has long been a cornerstone of democracy, whether in person or on television, but the rise of the digital age has brought about new opportunities for citizen engagement. The internet has created a space for discussions that are more personal, accessible and immediate than ever before. While it is impossible to match the depth of discourse that takes place between friends, family and coworkers, online engagement has its own unique challenges, including misperceptions about what is being discussed.
The debate format varies, but most involve a moderator asking a series of prepared questions and then allowing the candidates to respond. Each candidate is allotted an equal amount of time, and the questioners try to ensure that no one answers a question twice or uses up the full allotted time. Occasionally, the moderator will allow the candidates to cross-examine each other on specific topics.
In a live, televised event, audience reactions are amplified, which can distract viewers. Laughter or cheers magnify moments and can have a negative impact on the overall impression of a debate, regardless of the tone set by the candidates themselves. This is a challenge that can be addressed by making the debates more akin to a town hall meeting than a re-enactment of a presidential election.