Presidential Debates Do Matter
Digest
This episode of the 538 Politics Podcast delves into the upcoming presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. The hosts analyze the candidates' strengths and weaknesses, discussing their goals for the debate. They explore the potential impact of the debate on the election, considering how much a debate can actually influence voter sentiment. The episode also examines the role of economic data in the election, considering the potential impact of the upcoming jobs report and other economic indicators. To further understand the impact of debates, the hosts play a trivia game testing their knowledge of notable moments in presidential debate history, specifically how much the polls changed following a high profile debate moment. This game highlights the volatility of polls and the potential for even seemingly minor events to significantly impact voter sentiment.
Outlines
Presidential Debate Preview
This chapter focuses on the upcoming presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. The hosts discuss the candidates' strengths and weaknesses, their goals for the debate, and the potential impact of the debate on the election.
Presidential Debate Trivia and Impact
This chapter explores the impact of presidential debates on voter sentiment through a trivia game. The hosts test their knowledge of notable moments in presidential debate history, specifically how much the polls changed following a high profile debate moment. This game highlights the volatility of polls and the potential for even seemingly minor events to significantly impact voter sentiment.
Keywords
Presidential Debate
A formal meeting between candidates for political office, typically televised, where they answer questions and present their positions on various issues.
Kamala Harris
The Democratic nominee for Vice President of the United States in the 2020 election.
Donald Trump
The Republican incumbent President of the United States in the 2020 election.
Voter Sentiment
The overall mood and opinions of voters regarding political candidates, issues, and events.
Economic Data
Statistical information about the economy, such as employment figures, inflation rates, and GDP growth.
Polls
Surveys conducted to gauge public opinion on various topics, including political candidates and issues.
Q&A
How much impact do you think the upcoming jobs report or other economic data will have on the election?
While the jobs report could have a marginal impact, voters' economic views are likely already solidified. It would take a significant economic event to shift sentiment dramatically.
What are the goals of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump going into the debate?
Harris aims to present herself to a bipartisan audience, define her policies and vision, and demonstrate her competence. Trump seeks to project strength and avoid controversial statements.
How much can a presidential debate actually change the course of an election?
Debates can have a short-term impact on polls, with an average shift of 2.5 percentage points. However, the long-term effects are less clear.
What are some of the key takeaways from the presidential debate trivia game?
The game highlights the volatility of polls, particularly in the context of debates. It also demonstrates that even seemingly minor events can have a significant impact on voter sentiment.
Show Notes
As an extremely close presidential campaign heads into the homestretch, economic news abounds. The jobs report released last week fell short of expectations, and the Federal Reserve appears ready to cut interest rates later this month. Will any of it matter? Or have Americans generally made up their minds about this economy?
Plus, the crew previews Tuesday night’s presidential debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump, and they test their knowledge of historic debate moments.
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