How do presidential debates affect public opinion?

Presidential debates play a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing voter decisions. When candidates present their ideas, policies, and personalities in a high-stakes format, viewers are often swayed by their performances. A debate offers a direct comparison between candidates, allowing voters to analyze their communication styles, charisma, and the clarity of their proposed policies.

For many voters, debates can be pivotal moments where key issues are highlighted and candidates can defend or clarify their positions. This exposure can change the way voters perceive candidates, often leading to shifts in support before an election. Additionally, debates can energize a candidate's base or draw undecided voters by clarifying where they stand on critical issues, thus directly affecting voting intentions.

In contrast, some perspectives may argue that debates are simply promotional events or platforms focused only on policy discussions, but the reality is that the dynamic nature of debates often results in substantial shifts in voter sentiment and decision-making as a result of the candidates' performances. This is why the impact of presidential debates is recognized as an important aspect of election campaigns and public opinion.