The Daily How the Democratic Debates Narrow the Field
Aug 2, 2019
Reid J. Epstein, a political reporter for The New York Times, dives into the recent changes in Democratic primary debates. He discusses how new qualifications have narrowed the candidate field and the impact of these rules on lesser-known contenders. The conversation touches on the financial hurdles candidates face and how media strategies can make or break their campaigns. Epstein also highlights the tension between local issues and national narratives, emphasizing the evolution of political debates and the implications for democracy.
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Debate History
- Presidential debates have historically been public spectacles, dating back to Lincoln-Douglas.
- Reagan's "I paid for this microphone" moment in 1980 is a key example of debates' impact.
New Rules' Impact
- New Democratic debate rules prioritize candidates with broad donor networks, disadvantaging those focused on early states.
- The need for small-dollar donors drives candidates to seek large donations, creating a costly cycle.
Media Shift
- With the decline of local media influence, national media like MSNBC and CNN now hold more sway in shaping campaigns.
- This shift alters campaign operations and the overall race dynamic.