For all the candidates, the main imperative is not to make a mistake, because mistakes have traditionally really resounded in the post-debate coverage. |
Something has to happen to break one guy loose, |
The 1960 debates are the turning point from retail politics -- glad handing and meeting everyone face-to-face -- to the politics of mass media. |
The electorate gets to see these guys on a tightrope. That's a good test because, as president, you're always under pressure. |