With the 2024 presidential election just around the corner, the anticipation is building for the upcoming debate between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and former President and Republican candidate Donald Trump. Scheduled to take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this debate will mark the first meeting between the two contenders.
While many view debates as crucial moments that could potentially sway voter perceptions, past research indicates that they may not have as significant an impact as believed. Studies spanning from the 1950s to present day have shown that presidential debates typically do not lead to major shifts in voter choice or preferences.
One notable exception was the 2008 election, where Barack Obama’s performance in the debates helped him gain a substantial lead over his opponent. However, more recent examples from the 2016 and 2020 elections suggest that debates had minimal effect on the final outcomes.
Do presidential debates matter?
While debates may not always alter election results, they can influence how candidates are perceived by undecided voters and those unfamiliar with their platforms. In the case of relatively unknown candidates, such as Obama in 2008, debates played a key role in shaping voter opinions.
As the countdown begins for the upcoming debate, all eyes will be on Harris and Trump as they face off in a high-stakes showdown that could potentially impact the course of the 2024 election.
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