The Democratic Presidential debate reinforced my previous concerns that these forums are not productive in helping our citizenry make informed decision about the most qualified candidates for our highest office. 

 

Since the 1960 debate between Kennedy and Nixon, Americans understand that debate performance is a major factor in the selection of a winner. Sadly, given its upside potential, candidates have learned that critiquing one’s opponents is much more beneficial than articulating a positive message. 

 

Let me emphasize at this point, that the original Kennedy-Nixon Debates resulted in each candidate articulating in a positive message. Only in recent years, has negativity prevailed.

 

Instead of the candidates talking about important issues such as entitlements, foreign affairs, infrastructure projects, education, etc.  the discussions focused on flaws. 

 

Instead of Bloomberg being praised for creating a company that hires hundreds of thousands of people and his excellent record as mayor of NYC for 12 years, he was vilified for being a billionaire. None of his opponents mentioned Bloomberg’s extensive philanthropy. 

 

Unfortunately, according to the media discussion of the debates, Bloomberg did poorly. Commentators said Bloomberg was unprepared. In defending Bloomberg I would argue that he was prepared to discuss the important challenges facing this country, not the irresponsible charges waged against him.

 

Warren Buffett has famously quipped that a person can destroy his reputation in five minutes. Last night was worse because Bloomberg’s detractors irresponsibly attacked him, resulting in millions of viewers getting an unfavorable image of him.

 

While the media companies understand what is in their best image, I strongly advocate a total change of format so that candidates can project positive images of their platform positions. Moreover, we can no longer tolerate interruptions of the speaker. Included in my no list, is gesturing wildly while another is speaking.

 

In conclusion, last nights debate possibly ended Bloomberg’s political career. From my perspective Bloomberg was one of the most attractive candidates. Alas, the knockout punch is the tour de force. I infinitely prefer candid, honest articulation of a person’s core beliefs.