[ExTxMarine]

These “debates” haven’t exactly been designed to allow for substantive content.

The people who say that Trump shouldn’t get “down in the mud” with others, are the same people who would argue that Trump didn’t answer the question, or ignored the moderator, or “lost the debate” because he didn’t protect himself or stand-up to the bullies.

There is no “correct” answer to these BS-debates! Trump has laid out many of his plans, and people want more, more, more details. Who in the hell lays out their entire hand in a poker match?!? NO ONE!

Once they get the nomination, THAT is when you start the REAL details. That’s the way it usually works, and should work, but not according to this person.

[SamAdams76]

Exactly. The debates are setup as "lose-lose". You only have 60 seconds to answer a question and 30 seconds to respond. There is no way you can give substantive answers in that format without getting cut off and looking weak as buzzers are going off and moderators are scolding you and telling you your time is up.

Of course if you are able to finish your thoughts in 60 or 30 seconds, then you open yourself up to "not having details" and not fully answering the question.

Does anybody remember the Kennedy/Nixon debates in 1960? I'm too young to remember but I believe they had sufficient time to answer questions. In 1858, the Lincoln/Douglas debates went on for hours. Of course, people had longer attention spans then and I believe whiskey was provided for the attendees.

[Hatteras]

"These “debates” haven’t exactly been designed to allow for substantive content."

Haha! Convenient for him because Donald isn't designed to allow for substantive content either...