The prevailing narrative heading into tonight’s first 2012 presidential debate in Denver, Colorado is that debates typically don’t matter.
Except for when they actually do, right?
A few debates in modern history have mattered quite a bit. 2012 might prove to be the latest example. This time around, polling shows President Obama’s support (1) below 50% with likely voters and (2) relatively “soft,” meaning a significant number of Obama backers believe they could still change their mind. Gaffes, smack downs and general impressions could ultimately play a large role in what’s shaping up to be a super-tight national race. Undecided voters are apparently waiting for an apples-to-apples contrast. There’s no time like the present for both candidates in their quest to open up a sustained lead down the stretch.
So here’s a great little collection of historic presidential debate clips, courtesy of Congressional Quarterly; political nerds like yours truly are going to love this:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N6jPbyCbwM
