For the first time since 1976, there may not be a debate between the presidential candidates.
On Sunday, a consortium of television networks called on the two candidates, reminding them of the rich history of these televised contests.
Since this intervention, there has been a debate on the relevance of the exercise and there is no unanimity.
- Listen to the American political column with Professor Luc Laliberté via QUB
The arguments against
One of the most virulent columnists in his opposition to holding a debate is David Frum.
In a text relayed by The Atlanticthe former speechwriter for George W. Bush (the expression “axis of evil” is his) believes that Donald Trump is unworthy of this privilege.
Frum suggests that Joe Biden simply assert that we do not debate the Constitution, at least not with someone who is undergoing a criminal trial for an attempt to overthrow the regime under this same Constitution.
He adds that even if Trump has not yet been convicted, it is difficult to engage in a debate of ideas with a candidate who incites violence and who contemplated the spectacle of insurrectionists storming the Capitol.
For the columnist, allowing Trump to debate is to legitimize or normalize his actions and his words, while we fear for the integrity of the system.
AFP
The arguments for
If I understand that the networks do not want to deprive themselves of an audience of several tens of millions of people (70 to 80 million), I agree with them.
As they point out, two years before the start of the Civil War (hello political polarization!), Stephen Douglas and Abraham Lincoln clashed seven times.
After ignoring the primary debates and maintaining doubt about his intentions, Donald Trump recently said he was ready to face Biden “anywhere, anytime”.
The ball is in Biden’s court. Unlike Frum, I believe he would have more to lose by abstaining. All viewers are expecting the Trump circus, but many are wondering if the 46e president still has the passion and energy to stand up to him.
Joe Biden took on the challenge in 2020, but the race, marked by COVID, was very different. The Democrat had been able to save his energy by rarely leaving the comfort of his basement.
Can you imagine the criticism if he refuses to face an opponent chosen by Republican voters after a legitimate process? Not only could we describe him as cowardly and weak, but we would also be quick to turn the argument of respect for democracy against him.
Will the “show” be noble and elegant? Does the formula really allow us to present something well other than slogans and empty formulas? I don’t believe it, but Joe Biden needs to galvanize his voters and drive them to the polling stations. He must not miss this opportunity.
