Presidential debates on TV in peril

In a New York Times interview, CBS producer Don Hewitt, who directed and produced the John Kennedy-Richard Nixon debate in 1960, explained that debates entail "a big dose of show biz" and "trying to keep an audience." "When you're in television," Hewitt said, "that's your job."

Indeed, a lot of Democrats are angry at ABC for doing what it does best, which is to put on a TV show. That's like inviting yourself into a bear's cave and being surprised ... Full Story »

Posted by Roland F. Hirsch

See All Reviews »

Review

Roland F. Hirsch
4.1
by Roland F. Hirsch - Oct. 1, 2008

This opinion piece has considerable journalistic merit. Although the author generally favors the Democrats, here he provides an even-handed analysis of the TV debates in this election cycle. He notes unhappiness on the part of Republicans as well as Democrats. Of especial value is his explanation of why the "show-business" nature is inevitable when TV takes over the presentation of these events.

See All Reviews »

Roland's Rating

Overall
4.1

Good
from 12 answers
Quality
4.0
Facts
3.0
Fairness
5.0
Information
4.0
Sourcing
3.0
Style
4.0
Accuracy
5.0
Balance
4.0
Context
4.0
Popularity
4.5
Recommendation
5.0
Credibility
4.0
More How our ratings work »