As the debate over debates heats up, the Bush campaign is balking at participation in the events proposed by the Commission on Presidential Debates. Bush's concerns revolve around format and venues. But few in the mainstream media have looked into the legitimate questions about the Commission, especially whether the CPD is independent enough to decide which candidates get to participate. Journalists should ask the TV networks why they are ceding authority to decide whether Democrats and Republicans face competition to a Commission so beholden to the two major parties.
Debates are crucial to the functioning of a democracy.
Recent history shows that third-party candidates bring fresh issues and viewpoints to debates, as well as new viewers and voters. It is our conclusion that future joint appearances should be principally and jointly sponsored and conducted by the Republican and Democratic Committees. As a party chairman,'' says Kirk, ''it's my responsibility to strengthen the two-party system. It has become clear to us that the candidates' organizations aim to add debates to their list of campaign-trail charades devoid of substance, spontaneity and answers to tough questions. The League has no intention of becoming an accessory to the hoodwinking of the American public.