When it comes to primary presidential debates–regardless of party, candidates, ideologies, personalities and gotcha moments–this much we should all be able to agree on: a two-person debate is so much better. Not better theater, but better substance. Moderators needn’t be a major factor, as the back-and-forth dynamic prevails. It’s an actual debate–not a political carnival.
No, the Sanders-Clinton debate wasn’t one for the Lincoln-Douglas ages, but it did help members of the electorate tuning in for idea-and-proposal contrast rather than political side-show sound bites.