by David Nitkin
Just when it seemed as if the presidential debates might be coming to an end, a new crop has been announced.
The Commission on Presidential Debates disclosed today the dates and locations of three presidential and one vice-presidential debate to be held in September and October 2008, after the major parties have selected their nominees. Third-party candidates who garner an average of 15 percent support in polls would also be invited.
The first debate will be held on Friday, Sept. 26, at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Miss., followed by a town-hall style debate in Nashville, Tenn., on the campus of Belmont University, on Tuesday, Oct. 7. The final debate between presidential contenders is scheduled for Wed., Oct. 15, at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY.
The vice-presidential nominees will square off on Thursday, Oct. 2, at Washington University in St. Louis. All debates start at 9 p.m. eastern time.
The non-partisan debate commission unveiled a format change that organizers hope will lead to more disclosure and discussion of issues. Except for at the town-hall debate, the sessions will be divided into 8 individual 10-minute segments, focusing on a distinct issue. During each segment, the candidates should have a greater chance to address each other directly, rather than fielding questions from a moderator or responding to their opponent's position.
During the town hall debate, questions posted over the Internet will be permitted for the first time.
David Nitkin covers the White House for the Baltimore Sun, a Tribune Co. newspaper.
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