| December 4, 2019 | Krissia Palomo | campus editor |
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MSNBC’s Democratic presidential debate Nov. 20 was the opportunity for candidates to show voters what their vision for America entails. While the debate was the least-watched among previous ones in the primary season, it was the most informative and beneficial for the “underdogs” of the race.
Previous debate formats have caused the debates to be of little benefit to voters who haven’t made up their mind on who they wish to support. This can be attributed to the many insinuations made by debate moderators when asking candidates questions, fuelling petty fights and drama rather than informing the audience of what the candidates stand for.
It was starting to look like TV channels hosting the Democratic debates were only doing it for the views and ratings. That was the case until the Nov. 20 Democratic debates.
Debate moderators Rachel Maddow, Andrea Mitchell, Ashley Parker and Kristen Welker were tough on the candidates, ensuring that none were able to tiptoe around straightforwardly answering questions, allowing for clear debates to unfold.
Due to a less-crowded debate stage, fewer interruptions were seen, and candidates were able to use all of their time to elaborate on policies and respond to counterparts who wished to challenge their statements respectfully.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar was able to express her beliefs regarding a candidate’s experience and the contrasts between what is expected of female candidates and male candidates.
While this might have invited negativity during previous debates, the candidate in question, Mayor Pete Buttigieg, responded to Klobuchar with his thoughts regarding experience. Though some do not agree with Buttigieg’s rebuttal, he took a courteous approach to the execution of his statement, and it made for a nearly perfect debate moment.
It’s wise to commend the debate moderators for their professionalism.
The debates should serve to showcase a candidate’s strengths and policies, not who can come up with the most hurtful comeback.
