Read the student's notes on a source she is using to prepare for a debate about the necessity of presidential debates in a democracy:
Presidential Debates and Their Effects: Research Overview
It is possible for debates to influence an election if the race is very close, such as the 1980 debate
between Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter. In more recent elections, polls have shifted a few percentage
points after certain television debates, showing the effect the debate can have on voters who watch or
tune in.
According to research, debates can change voters’ perceptions of a candidate’s personality and help
them learn about the stances and policies of the candidate. They can also influence which issues the
media prioritizes.
12. Will this source be effective in helping the student respond to the counterclaim that debates
provide no useful service to the public?
A. Yes, because it has information about how the media affect people's perception of the
candidates.
B. Yes, because it has information about the value of presidential debates in educating voters.
C. No, because it contains evidence that presidential debates have influenced the outcome of
elections.
D. No, because it states that candidates' personalities can have an effect on who people decide to
vote for.