42.3: Alternative & Additional Means
Consideration to alternative and additional means to make certain the number of debates does not grow out of hand. Other Information:
In addition, we urge the Party to give consideration to alternative and additional means to make certain the number of debates
does not grow out of hand. These could include: - An announcement by the RNC in late 2014 or early 2015 of the exact dates,
locations and sponsors of the sanctioned debates in 2015 and 2016. - The possibility of penalizing candidates and/or state
parties (perhaps through the RNC rules process) through the loss of delegates to the convention if they do not abide by the
potential new debate structure.
Stakeholder(s):
- Professional Debate Organization: We are intrigued with the suggestion some have made for an organization to be formed that can host robust, vigorous, tough,
and professional debates. Doing so would create an additional impetus for candidates to participate in RNC-sanctioned debates
only, but even if this happens, it will remain important to work closely with the media so they agree to broadcast them. After
all, there is no point in putting on a debate that almost no one watches. It makes no sense to take back the debates so we
can keep them to ourselves. Any such organization or the RNC will also need to work closely with state parties so they also
agree to abide by this potential new system. Several states and institutions within those states have histories of hosting
debates. We need to respect these traditions and work together. The cost of putting on a broadcast-quality debate is considerable,
and the money would need to be raised to host them. Estimates range from $500,000 to $1 million per debate. A moderator with
an outstanding reputation for independence, diligence, and toughness would need to be selected. No debate will be meaningful
if it is not challenging, vigorous, and fair. Hosting a well-run, credible, and professional debate is a highly complicated
matter.
Indicator(s):
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