Do political debates have an adverse effect on votes?

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

What do candidates actually believe and how do they justify prior actions and future plans? Debates help reveal the truth, versus soundbites on TV tailored for the local marketplace and ad literature that may be list inflated accomplishments and flimsy excuses made for prior votes. Debates also often allow the public to ask candidates questions, something a tailored report doesn't.

Answer by  timeismoney (994)

Political debates allow candidates to air personal views point-by-point, while being required to give correct information and answer all questions. This should better inform the voter about candidate positions, personality, integrity, and intelligence. Debates may increase votes by increasing interest, though voter disenchantment may have the opposite effect.