As anyone who spends any time on social media or with the news knows, America often feels like a nation divided. Partisanship is high, trust in institutions is down, and people seem to be stuck in stale ideological battles that devoid of spontaneity and answers to tough questions.
Political debate can play a critical role in informing voters. Research in countries that have democratically elected governments demonstrates that when candidates discuss their platforms in public forums, voters are more informed about the issues facing the country and more likely to support candidates who share their policy priorities.
Debate participation can also help to break down partisan assumptions about one another and encourage cross-party dialogue. These benefits are why the CPD has long sought to ensure that a broad range of candidates participate in our presidential debates.
We use a complex, multi-factor set of criteria to determine the candidates who will be invited to participate in our debates each cycle. The criteria are based on deliberations of an advisory panel that includes respected Americans from a broad range of backgrounds and affiliations, including nonpartisan organizations.
In order to qualify for a presidential debate, a candidate must have a statistically feasible chance of winning 270 electoral college votes in order to win the presidency. The CPD uses several national polling sources to determine this level of support. In addition, the CPD carefully considers early voting, religious and federal holidays, and television pool contractual conflicts (such as Major League Baseball) in selecting debate dates to ensure the greatest possible viewing and listening audience.