Presidential Debate Analysis

Mr. Milewski moderated a panel discussion that featured analysis of the 2004 presidential debates. Mr. Farah noted that these debates offered substantive improvements over previous presidential debates, but noted that they were not as “engaging and authentic” as they could have been. He argued that the candidates effectively avoided “challenging questions” by controlling the Commission on Presidential Debates. Mr. Schatz argued that the post-debate presentation of the debate, the “spin,” superseded the media coverage of the content of the debate. Mr. Kalb addressed the various “approaches of analysis of Kerry and Bush.” He also spoke about the debates in a historical context and talked about the impact of television on presidential debates. Following their remarks, the speakers responded to audience questions and comments. close