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There was a time when candidates spent countless hours agonizing over whether to debate. The old rule of thumb was that frontrunners had everything to lose by debating, and underdogs had everything to gain. Since most elections have frontrunners, debates were often shunted.
But in recent times, I debates have become a fixture of campaigning. Unless you're an incumbent running against only token opposition, debating has become something most candidates can't avoid. Ever since 1984 when incumbent President Ronald Reagan, who enjoyed a big lead in the polls, consented to debate his underdog opponent, Walter Mondale, the incumbent/frontrunner no-show excuse was obliterated. Now, voters and the news media expect all candidates to debate, whether you're running for town alderman or president. When a candidate won't debate, he or she becomes suspect and subject to attack. Candidates who have good reason not to debate have to weigh the damage done by refusing alongside the risk of doing it.
Meeting one's opposition in debate can be the scariest thing a political candidate is called upon to do. Experienced campaigners, as well as newcomers, usually get the jitters before they walk on stage to debate. Fear of being surprised with an unexpected attack, or being hit with a question for which you don't know the answer, sets off butterflies in the stomachs of even the toughest combatants. In prep sessions, campaign staff and media consultants should be sensitive to the dread and trepidation with which most candidates approach debates.
It has been said with substantial justification that you don't win debates, you only lose them. Most debate injuries are self-inflicted. That's why carefulness and preparation are critical. However, in your attempt to be careful and prepared, don't become too timid or stiff, either.
The following are lessons that have been gleaned by observing debates among candidates in races small and large, local and national:
1. Know the rules. A candidate must be fully briefed on the rules of the debate before it begins. That includes knowing the amount of time available for opening and closing statements, answers, and rebuttals. It also includes knowing whether and how prepared notes may be used and what visuals (charts, photos, documents, etc.) may be displayed. The rules will directly affect your presentation...