Presidential Views on Debates Discussion Questions

President Bush Senior Video Clip President Bush Senior (2) Video Clip

“You can have a good president that might not be the best in or at the top of his game in a staged
debate. But maybe he can do it quietly, maybe he can do it without having a hair part and a make-up
just right and a smile at the right time."
– President George H.W. Bush (Senior)

President Clinton Video Clip

"Having to do them and knowing that if you blow it, they will change a lot of votes, forces people who
wish to be president to do things that they should do. And I am convinced that the debates that I went
through, especially those three in 1992, actually helped me to be a better president."
– President Bill Clinton

1. How do voters get information about where candidates stand on certain issues?

Voters obtain information about where candidates stand on issues through various sources.
Traditional media such as television, newspapers, and radio play a role, as do digital platforms
like websites and social media. Additionally, candidates engage in public speeches, town hall
meetings, and interviews to articulate their positions. Campaign materials, debates, and
endorsements from individuals or organizations also contribute to shaping voter perceptions.

2. How is information about a candidate controlled? Who controls it?

Information about a candidate is controlled through various channels. The candidate's

campaign team plays a crucial role in managing their image through press releases, official
statements, and interviews. Media outlets, both traditional and digital, influence the narrative
by selecting which stories to cover and how they are presented. Opposition research,
conducted by political opponents, may be strategically used to highlight or discredit certain
aspects of a candidate's background.

3. What is the difference between Bush Senior and Clinton viewpoints on debates?

The viewpoints of Bush Senior (George H.W. Bush) and Clinton (Bill Clinton) on debates differ.
Bush Senior was initially hesitant about town hall-style debates, expressing concern about the
format being unpredictable. On the other hand, Clinton embraced these formats, believing they
provided a more direct connection with voters.

4. What reasons do the former presidents give to support their opinions of debates?

Bush Senior's reservations were rooted in a desire for a more structured and controlled
environment. He wanted to ensure that substantive issues were discussed rather than allowing
the debate to become a spectacle. Clinton, however, saw town hall debates as an opportunity
to directly engage with voters, addressing their concerns in a more interactive setting.
5. Which viewpoint do you agree with the most and why?

As a neutral entity, I don't hold personal viewpoints. However, both perspectives can be valid
depending on one's priorities. Some may value the controlled environment for its focus on
policy details, while others appreciate the direct interaction in town hall formats for a more
personal connection.

6. What role do presidential debates play in the political process?

Presidential debates play a crucial role in the political process. They provide a platform for candidates
to articulate their positions, engage in direct dialogue, and demonstrate their competence to voters.
Debates contribute to informed decision-making, allowing the electorate to assess candidates'
knowledge, communication skills, and ability to handle pressure.

7. Find two instances in two different historical/contemporary debates where you see a political or
social issue is discussed in an in depth way and how did the candidates achieve this. (link the two
debates)

Historical Example (1):

Debate: The Kennedy-Nixon debates in 1960.

Issue: Cold War and foreign policy.
Achievement: Both candidates engaged in substantive discussions on the Soviet threat, Cuba,
and nuclear weapons, showcasing a depth of understanding on critical issues.
Contemporary Example (2):

Debate: The Obama-Romney debates in 2012.

Issue: Healthcare reform.
Achievement: Both candidates provided detailed perspectives on the Affordable Care Act,
presenting their plans and philosophies on healthcare, allowing voters to make informed
decisions.

8. Find two instances in two different historical/contemporary debates where the debate was diverted
and unhelpful in discussing issues and how did the candidates create the distraction that caused that
diversion or diversions. (link the two debates)

Historical Example (1):

Debate: The Reagan-Mondale debates in 1984.

Distraction: Reagan's humor and wit deflected questions about his age, diverting attention from
the policy issues at hand.
Contemporary Example (2):

Debate: The Trump-Clinton debates in 2016.

Distraction: Personal attacks and focus on non-policy issues diverted attention from substantive
discussions, making it challenging for voters to grasp the candidates' policy differences.