Can Presidential Debates Make a Difference?

In a simple word, yes. All one has to do is look back at the Nixon-Kennedy debates in 1960 - especially the first of the four. This was the first televised presidential debate in American history. During this debate, it was not so much what John F. Kennedy said that made the difference but how he appeared. He was well-tanned, wore no makeup, wore a dark suit which contrasted well with the background, and appeared serious throughout the debate. On the other hand, Richard Nixon wore thick pancake makeup which made him look pasty, sweated throughout the debate, chose a paler color for his suit, and even smiled a couple of times which made people question his seriousness.

Tonight's presidential debate could be historic in that only one candidate might actually show up. John McCain has claimed that if an agreement cannot be made to help with the current economic crisis and the bailout of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, he would not show up to debate. It is entirely possible that Barack Obama would then be able to hold a town hall type of event that would be televised across the nation. Will this make a difference in the long run? In this close election it is impossible to tell. No matter what though, this will most probably prove to be a fascinating day in America - with or without a debate.