I have forced myself to wait over a week before commenting further on the most recent presidential debate. I have watched many debates over the years and have used footage of the first televised debate (1960 Nixon / Kennedy debate) as a communication’s teaching tool in a leadership seminar.
I really don’t care much for politics, but I do care about leadership, and I care about people. Everyone deserves good leadership whether they seek it or not.
Here’s an unbiased view of the debate:
Harris: Well prepared and executed her plan at a high level. She didn’t answer any direct questions. She skirted most issues and appeared more intent on getting Trump angry than providing details of her plans. It was clear her plan was to attack Trump regardless of the questions posed to her.
Trump: He looked angry the entire night. He let his pride get the best of him again, spent too much time defending against personal attacks, and failed to convey specific actions he would take. He missed a big opportunity to clarify his stance on key issues and to differentiate himself from Harris.
Moderators: Initial questioning was ok, but they didn’t keep either candidate on topic, failed to get answers, and follow-up questioning was poor. They wasted time playing fact checker rather than getting candidates to clarify positions. Their demeanor and overall control of the evening was one of the worst examples of moderating a debate I have ever seen. ABC looked very biased based on their comments and overall behavior.
Summary: The loser was the American people. I wish I had that time back because it was a waste. I don’t think we learned anything that night. Harris told us very little. Trump acted like Trump. The moderators should refund us all for the value of our time lost.
The American people deserve the best possible leadership.
- Leadership that will provide not only a clear vision of a better future, but a clear path to reaching that vision.
- Leadership that clearly communicates not just what they will do but why.
- Leadership that is competent to handle national security, the economy, and other major areas of focus.
- Leadership that is seeking to serve, not be the center of attention.
- Leadership that will make the hard call even if it’s not popular.
- Leadership that seeks the long-term best interest of the people even if they may not get re-elected because of it.
- Leadership that unites, not divides.
Maybe I am asking for too much.
Oh, I couldn’t find a winner!
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