Political debate is an essential part of a thriving democracy. Candidates must explain their views and approach to issues to voters so they can make informed decisions. Debates allow voters to compare candidates, witness their temperament and unscripted approaches, and choose a leader that best suits their priorities and values.
Since the first televised presidential debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon in 1960, debates have become iconic moments in political history, influencing public perceptions of candidates and shaping election outcomes. While it’s impossible to know exactly how any particular debate will affect the outcome of an election, research shows that political debates can provide valuable civic education for the voting public by helping them understand the issues and make more informed choices.
The CPD’s nonpartisan goal is to afford the public an opportunity to sharpen their views, in a focused debate format, on the major issues facing the country. To be invited to participate in a CPD debate, a candidate must meet a set of criteria that combines a review of five national public opinion polling organizations and an assessment of the candidate’s likelihood of winning a majority of electoral votes (or 270).
The candidate selection process is not influenced by any party or group. Likewise, the CPD does not meet with the campaigns to discuss moderator selection. Instead, the CPD selects moderators based on their familiarity with the candidates, experience in live television broadcast news and an understanding that the debate should focus on the issues and not personalities.