Substance vs. Spectacle: A look at presidential debates

The Wheelhouse

In advance of the presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, there were negotiations over live microphones and arguments over who could attend. There was even a debate over what network it should be put on.

Historically, debates offer an opportunity for political candidates to provide substantive details about their platforms. But in 2024, more attention is paid to spectacle.

Now that the presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is over, is it time to focus on the importance of debates and the substance intended to be offered to the American people?

Today on The Wheelhouse, the evolution of public political discourse.

GUESTS:

• Dr. Bilal Sekou, Associate professor of politics and government, University of Hartford
• Jonathan Wharton, Associate professor of political science and urban affairs, Southern Connecticut State University
• Julian E. Zelizer, Professor of history and public affairs, Princeton University
• Kathryn Cramer Brownell, Associate professor of history, Purdue University

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1. A (00:00:00)

2. B (00:20:50)

3. C (00:35:16)