Debate 2000 Washington University in St. Louis Members of the university community staff the Volunteer 5 telephone lines at KSDK-TV's downtown studio as part of the promotional effort for DebateWatch, designed to expand participation in presidential debates. First introduced in 1996, DebateWatch brings citizens together nationally to watch the televised debates, talk about what they learn, and let the CPD know what they think through an anonymous survey.
Candidates use debates to talk to the public.
The public can use DebateWatch to talk to the candidates. Equally important, DebateWatch encourages citizens to talk with other citizens about the important electoral decisions they will make this fall.