42: Debates

Create a system that results in a rational number of debates.

Other Information:

Primary Process -- Debates are a vital part of the primary process. For candidates, debates are essential forums to demonstrate they are qualified to become President of the United States. For Republican primary voters, debates can be fascinating and lively forums to judge the men and women who seek their support. In 1980, there were 6 primary debates. In 1988, there were 7 debates. In 2000, there were 13 debates, in 2008 there were 21 debates, and in 2012, there were 20. Debates must remain a central element of the GOP nominating process, but in recent years there have been too many debates, and they took place too early. The first debate of the 2012 cycle took place on May 5, 2011, eight months before the first votes were cast in the Iowa caucuses. In contrast, the first Republican primary debate of the 1980 election took place on January 5, 16 days prior to the Iowa caucuses. On January 7 and 8 last year, two debates took place within 12-hours of each other. The number of debates has become ridiculous, and they're taking candidates away from other important campaign activities. It should be recognized that depending on a candidate's standing in the polls, some candidates will want to participate in an unlimited number of debates, as early as they can and as often as they can. If some candidates decide to team up with media organizations that seek to sponsor debates, it will be impossible to hold a reasonable number of debates. The media will decide how many debates the party should have — instead of the Party making the decision. In order to have a process that respects a candidate's time and one that helps the Party win, the Party should create a system that results in a more rational number of debates.

Objective(s):

42.1: Reduction

42.2: Additional Debates

42.3: Alternative & Additional Means

42.3.1: Test Runs

42.4: Primaries

42.4.1: Republican Convention

42.4.2: Primary Calendar

42.4.3: Winner-Take-All v. Proportionate Voting

42.4.4: Reorganization

42.4.5: On Ramp

42.4.6: Base Broadening

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