Changes Needed In Debate System | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics

Changes Needed In Debate System

If candidates can't act professional certain rules need to be put in place

3
Changes Needed In Debate System

The presidential race in 2016 has quite possibly been the biggest train wreck that has ever happened, fortunately with the election upcoming in November the resolution is near and we might finally be able to live in a world again where we don't see a presidential candidate on television or social media every day. Don’t get me wrong political involvement and knowledge from citizens is important, but at some point the hypotheticals of what each candidate would do is tedious, and it at times takes away attention from political realities currently occurring the good and the bad.

Alas before the election is decided we must deal with the ever so enjoyable presidential debates.

If you watched the first debate, you probably didn't get much out of it as most of it was bickering between the candidates and both of them interrupting each other (One much more so then the other).

With the recent debate being more mind numbing than insightful there are a few propositions that could possibly be implemented in future debates to avoid the same dilemmas.

During the presidential debates, the moderator gives a certain amount of time to each candidate to respond to a question. The candidate’s response often goes over the time despite the moderator’s attempts to step in. As a result, candidates end up receiving disparate amounts of time to speak during the debate. The candidates will also often rudely interrupt each other. This issue could potentially be solved if we implemented a system where the candidates microphones were only turned on when it was their turn to speak.

It could be argued that giving the candidates the opportunity to interrupt and go over the allotted time block provides a look into their personalities, which I suppose could help in deciding who to vote for. However though I feel as if at this point in the election the candidates will have ample time on whatever news outlet they want to express their personality. These supposed insights during the debates should not come at the expense of the less-outspoken candidate’s time to voice his or her response to important policy questions.

Also it’s vital to being involving third party candidates in debates as a two party system often times leaves Americans unsatisfied with their options. With the addition of third party candidates it would at least allow for more alternatives for voters.

Some of these are ideas that shouldn't only be implemented in presidential debates but in primary debates as well as they are just as important during the early portions of the election.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

19889
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

8389
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

6084
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

5267
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments