Political debate is a critical component of an effective democracy. It allows candidates to articulate their views and policies in a public forum, often allowing undecided voters to shift their support to the candidate that better aligns with their beliefs. Despite the admonishments from politicians to avoid personal, rude attacks and to stick to the issues in a debate, too often these discussions devolve into an ugly conflict that leaves voters frustrated with both sides and disappointed with the entire event.
Heightened political polarization has contributed to the negative perception of debate and a desire to avoid them. But even in the face of rising partisanship, debate can be productive and enlightening. In fact, the process of resolving differences through a healthy debate can strengthen democratic institutions and strengthen America’s place in the world.
The tradition of integrating debate into the campaign process goes back to the 19th century and the senatorial campaigns between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. In a debate format similar to today’s, the two candidates addressed key issues in an engaging face-to-face setting that allowed voters to compare the responses and decide how to vote.
The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) has sponsored general election debates in every presidential cycle since 1988. The nonpartisan, voter education goal of these events drives the CPD’s approach to candidate selection and debate formats. The CPD invites only those candidates who meet objective criteria based on national organization, signs of competitiveness and newsworthiness, and a demonstrable level of interest or concern by the electorate.