by Olivia Bredbenner

Created on: October 31, 2007   Last Updated: March 19, 2008

The presidential debates are NOT too controlled. But are moderated in many focused forums. They are timed to allow each candidate the exact amount of time, to address the subject at hand. Time is the only restraint, they must use it appropriately, abandoning all over reactive dialog, that may deflect from their real message.

Our politicians debate the issues of our time. This is our American way. In doing so there sometimes appears to be major conflicts and divides, this is true, we feel strong, we speak even more so, but we speak freely.

In addition to debates, there seems to be an ever increasing opportunity to have the candidates contribute their thoughts on how they would handle todays issues. In doing so they become part of a competitive agenda . Each expounding, leading to the confrontational issues,and often then reflecting who they are.

Candidates have exhibited their free speech, sometimes with appropriate noted restraints,as they fear loosing their support base. Because of this open dialog , and an occasional impromptu response, they sometimes have to later rescind or further refine what they have said. Often there is fall out, that follows them in sound bites, for days or longer.

Because we are narrowing down on our candidates over a longer period of time, there is the risk of the public,loosing interest or with a closed mind, already have their mind made up.

After a while we think we have heard it all, but the candidates are still free to speak.
Freedom of speech is still with us. Whether we like it or not.

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