[Dave S]

I think many people view a reluctance to debate as a sign that the candidate may have something to hide. They may turn away from him as a result.

I think most people wouldnt know if there was a debate or not and if there was, who was involved. For most people, politics is of less interest than going to the dentist to have a root cannel.

[jam137]

Polls tend to reflect what "likely voters" are thinking. So, a person who is ahead in the polls is ahead with people who are interested in politics, right? Wouldn't many of these people be interested in what happens in a debate?