I agree with your earlier comment (another thread?) that a question and answer session before journalists is a stupid way to decide on the leader of the free world.
Sound bites and ability to evoke a laugh is a great way to pick a Vegas stand-up comedian.
As far as sound bites and ability to evoke a laugh is concerned, it worked well for JFK; the difference being that he—like Reagan—had a ready and good natured natural wit instead of brain dead, meaningless and demeaning set up questions.
Even as late as 1960 the questions asked in the debate were about issues. I’m saying those times are past unless we can turn them around despite the well accomplished and deliberate dumbing down. We are heading into Idiocracy at electronic speed.