Dueling Talking Points

I am still at work, so I'm not watching the presidential debate right now. I will fire up the old DVR when I get home, against my better judgment.

So far, the debates have been boring. This is because they have not been debates but rather opportunities for each candidate to say what he or she has been trained to say while standing next to the other candidate. This is what the pundits and strategists call staying "on message." It reminds me of my telemarketing days. The idea is to pretend to engage the person on the other end, but always, always control the conversation and bring it back to the talking points in your script. This attitude was epitomized by Sarah Palin's blatant use of note cards and her seemingly boastful proclamation that she would eschew addressing the posed questions in favor of "talking straight to the American people."

One time, just one time, I want someone to go through the opponent's arguments, point-by-point, and point out the flaws and the fallacies, much as Lincoln did to Douglas in his response to Douglas's attacks in the first debate (notice also that Douglas itemizes his specific objections to a Lincoln's beliefs). And, there are still some colorful theatrics thrown in. Also, let's take a cue from this and hold our debates outdoors, with the rabble, who do things such as heckle Lincoln about his failing eye sight. No more silent tennis crowds.

**Update: I like Town Hall-style debates. Tonight's was by far the most interesting one this election.**