The 5 who did show should not be disparaged, nor should SC.
Those who aspire to the office are the ones who deserve greater scrutiny....why are they waiting, what do they fear or feel they gain by not showing up?
While large numbers of candidates at debates can diminish the amount we learn about individuals, the fringe candidates can often inject new ideas, of reveal warts on front-runners.
For those who seek the best candidate possible, the more candidates and debates the better.
I certainly learned much about the 5, it's a shame that some already have a horse hitched to their cart before seeing the entire herd.
Do you want your sulky pulled by Eyore or Secretariat?
Dangit. I try to be nice and you remain a sob.