A political debate is a discussion between candidates for public office that takes place in front of an audience. These discussions often take the form of a question-and-answer format or a town hall meeting. In addition to being an important component of a democratic society, they also help voters become more informed about the candidates and the issues they are addressing.
Historically, political debate has been shaped by the media and television. For example, the 1960 Kennedy-Nixon presidential debate is credited with changing political discourse and voter engagement in America. Debates are also a critical way for candidates to gain exposure and increase their chances of being elected, especially in a highly contested election.
The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) oversees all presidential debates in the United States during a political campaign. The organization is an independent, nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that is not controlled by any outside group or political party. The CPD is the only entity authorized by federal law to sponsor a general election presidential debate.
In order for a candidate to participate in a CPD-sponsored debate, he or she must have a statistically feasible chance of winning a majority of electoral votes in the United States. This is determined by five national polling organizations defined by the CPD.
In addition to hosting presidential debates, the CPD also advises sponsors of non-presidential debates, including gubernatorial, congressional, mayoral, state legislative and city council debates. Often, these sponsors seek advice on debate formats and voter education initiatives.