For instance, a candidate endorsed by the Sierra Club, an environmental organization, will be in favor of legislation that protects our earth. You can get a list of endorsements from campaign headquarters. Find out where the candidates get the funds to finance their campaigns. Many types of information about campaign contributions must be given to the government and are reported by the media. Throughout the campaign, opinion polls will be taken by a variety of groups to evaluate public support for the different candidates.
Polls reveal who is leading at a certain point in the race.
You should enjoy watching a televised debate because you are so well prepared to understand the questions and answers and to evaluate the candidates' performance. Before the event, get some background on the debate sponsor and follow any conflicts over the debate itself. A good format should be interesting and fair, should provide information about the candidates and issues and should help you judge the candidates' leadership abilities. As you watch, be aware of your reactions both to the substance of the candidates' remarks and the visual images that are conveyed. They can be powerful.