The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) is facing potential irrelevance as two presidential debates have been announced without their involvement. The co-chairman of the CPD, Frank Fahrenkopf, expressed doubts about whether these debates will actually take place due to unresolved issues such as drug tests, seating arrangements, and format. Fahrenkopf highlighted the importance of the commission in resolving disputes and ensuring that debates run smoothly, citing past instances where debates were nearly paralyzed due to disagreements.
The history of presidential debates dates back to 1960, with the first televised debate between Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy. Over the years, debates have become a crucial part of the election process, with the League of Women Voters sponsoring debates until the formation of the CPD in 1987. Fahrenkopf, one of the original founders of the CPD, emphasized the importance of the commission in overseeing debates and ensuring fairness.
Despite facing criticism and challenges to its relevance, Fahrenkopf believes the commission is not dead yet and is still organizing for upcoming debates. However, the commission is at risk of losing its role in overseeing debates if the announced debates proceed without its involvement. Fahrenkopf expressed his hope that debates continue to be a tradition in the electoral process and emphasized the importance of educating the American people through these debates.
Fahrenkopf acknowledged that the commission is viewed as an anachronism and has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. He noted that debates falling to individual TV networks could result in the loss of the commission’s role in ensuring fairness and consistency in debates. Fahrenkopf mentioned that if the announced debates are successful and serve their purpose of educating the American people, he would acknowledge their efforts. However, if the debates falter, the commission stands ready to fill the void and ensure that debates continue to play a vital role in the election process.
As the July 4th deadline approaches, Fahrenkopf expressed the urgency of a commitment to the commission to ensure its future involvement in this election. He highlighted the significance of debates in shaping public opinion and providing voters with important information about the candidates. Fahrenkopf expressed his hope that the commission will continue to play a crucial role in overseeing debates and emphasized the importance of preserving the tradition of debates in electing the country’s leaders.
