In a recent debate, presidential candidate Michele Bachmann was told that she was intentionally targeted for fewer questions because of her low standing in the polls. She complained vehemently about it, rightfully so. Those who sponsor these presidential debates should immediately put an end to this unfair practice. In any debate, all participants should get an equal chance to make their case to the voters, regardless of their standing in the polls. When the more popular candidates get the lion’s share of the questions, it creates a conundrum for the other candidates, and outcome becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
The only way for the candidates at the bottom to catch up – since most of them are not taking in much money – is to speak directly to voters in the debates. They cannot afford lots of paid ads. However, if those candidates are not going to be given much time, it will be practically impossible for them to catch up. It is not the job of those who put on the debates to pick winners and losers. It is their job to create a fair and equitable forum in order to help the voters pick the winners and losers.
Comments