We’ve had two debates this fall, in the presidential race, of different formats: a presidential race debate with the candidates standing at a lecterns, and a vice-presidential debate last night with the candidates seated at a table. This difference in the style of the presidential and vice-presidential debates has been followed since 2000.
Correction, 5:29 PM: the vice presidential candidates in 2008 stood while debating, but in 2000 and 2004 were seated at a table.
Which format, if either, do you prefer?
I like the candidates seated at a table – it’s less formal, but I think it also makes for a more interesting discussion and clash of views.
What do you think?
Seated at a table seems more conversational; less stiff.
Sitting at a table is more like a discussion.
It seems more like a quiz show when they’re both standing up, behind a podium.
fun either way