(05-16-2024, 10:32 AM)mikesez Wrote: Debates only happen when both candidates see a benefit.
In most local races with a strong incumbent there is no debate because the incumbent doesnt even want to give the opponent the benefit of name recognition.

And I agree with Marty, I want as few rules as possible but "no interrupting" and "we're going to cut off your mic when it's not your turn" are musts.  And it should go without saying that the moderator should never try to correct the candidate about the present or the future, but should always correct the candidate if the candidate attempts to lie about the past.

I think the moderators correcting the candidates about anything would look like bias.  All I want is for each candidate to be able to talk without being interrupted.  Put them in separate sound-proof rooms, give them a time limit for each statement, and let them say whatever they want, but cut off their microphone when their time is up.

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