Debates are a main factor in the outcome of the presidential election
Debates can directly and significantly sway voters' opinion
General election polls are relatively static before and after debates
Is there evidence of a primary debate influencing whether a primary candidate won a specific state?
Erikson, Robert and Christopher Wlezian.The Timeline of Presidential Elections.
General election debates
Debates can sometimes be staged
Primary debates
Debates can sometimes be staged
~87% of study participants registered no change in preference after general election debates, compared to ~40% after primary debates
"Do Presidential Debates Matter?" University of Missouri, Political Communication Institute
Most of the decisions are taken behind closed doors. Debates only serve to provide something for the media and the public.
Most of the decisions are taken behind closed doors. Debates only serve to provide something for the media and the public.
~87% of study participants registered no change in preference after general election debates, compared to ~40% after primary debates
http://pci.missouri.edu/doc/do-presidential-debates-matter.pdf