[grania]

One thing that's unfair about the debates is that they're all on cable stations. They aren't even on stations that are in basic cable packages! That excludes a huge segment of the population from making informed decisions.

If there are no opening and closing statements, the candidates are totally at the mercy of the agenda of those running the show.

[Lopeover]

Out here in Oregon the Democrat debate was broadcast on a local radio station! No local radio station covered the Republican debate.

[JediJones]

The opening statements have been incredibly dull, useless and pathetic in the debates so far. They’re a waste of time. Everyone knows who these candidates are after record debate ratings.

I say they compromise with a 2.5 hour debate with closing statements and no opening statements. Closing is more useful to the candidates because they can cover any ground that was missed during the debate.