KFVS12 ViewPoint - 10/15/12 - Political Debates - KFVS12 News & Weather Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Poplar Bluff

The Presidential and Vice-Presidential debates have become must-see TV. For most voters these debates will be our only opportunity to see the candidates working without a prepared speech or a teleprompter. It is also one of the rare moments when the candidate is not in total control of the topics and the length of time dedicated to answering questions.

During the 1st presidential debate the loss of control was visibly uncomfortable at times for President Obama. For the challenger, Mitt Romney, the debate format provided a different opportunity; one he used to redefine himself.

Regardless of your party affiliation or current voting preference, the debates are compelling. We are discovering that neither candidate is the demonized caricature depicted in negative advertising. Nor are they the perfect and compassionate person we see through the eyes of a political consultant. They are humans with flaws, weaknesses, and strengths, just like most people. But unlike the rest of us, they want to be President of the United States.

If you watch no other television between now and the election, watch the debates. Then decide who deserves your vote.

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