10.07.2008 9:34 pm
Have the debates really helped define the candidates’ positions?
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Debates have been a long-held tradition in politics. And we vary them between the stilted podium-anchored statements and tonight’s “town hall style” meetings.
The debate tonight sounded very much like the previous one to me, however. Sen. Obama worked very hard to paint Sen. McCain as a clone of President George Bush. McCain worked hard to describe Obama as a product of the Washington establishment — without the ability to reach across the aisle and promote change.
Do these debates do anything to help voters really understand the candidates’ views on the issues? Or do they confuse you more, as the candidates highlight the flaws they perceive in their opponent’s plans?
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Kurt is the director of social media for the Post-Dispatch, where he has worked since August 2002. He's been a journalist since 1982, covering municipal government, courts, education and two hurricanes as a reporter before becoming an editor. 
Mike, to answer your question, see the post above.
iki-iKi,
You should present a print of that post to a therapist, you need serious help.
The debates are good, because for most of us, it is our only opportunity to observe the demeanor of the candidates when they have to answer a question that they cannot predict or control (Sort of the way real life works. )
The job of our President is to conduct himself with dignity,equanimity and respect. What goes on in a campaign speech is tightly controlled (both candidates) What goes on in a debate style appearance is less controlled by the candidates.