But I understand they were each allowed to bring a piece of paper and a pencil. It might just have been that.
The writing materials were already on the lecterns, placed there by the moderators. They could take notes with the materials provided, but could not bring ANYTHING into the debate.
No, they had to give the paper and pencil to the debate staff and they would place them on the podium..
They weren't allowed to put anything on the podium.
"Each candidate must submit to the staff of the Commission prior to the debate all such paper and any pens or pencils with which a candidate may wish to take notes during the debate, and the staff or commission will place such paper, pens and pencils on the podium..."