When do you anticipate the debate issue will be settled? And then I have a follow-up.
C.J.:
The President believes the debates are good and that more the better. The President's asked for five debates. Governor Ritchie's asked for two. The President said, "How about four?" Governor Ritchie said, "How about two?" We're waiting for the commission to make its recommendation.
Reporter:
And follow-up is what would be considered a debate win for the President?
C.J.:
At this point, participating in one would be a victory.
It's not even the number of debates, as much as the format. 2 minute response followed by a 1 minute reply. That's not a debate. That's not a debate! It's a joint press conference.
Be nice to be able to respond to what the other person has said, and ask them a question. And the moderator should be empowered to press for an answer, just as a judge can of a witness, or a member of Congress in a confirmation hearing.
Sam:
Hmm.
C.J.:
Sam, what do you think about me writing you an urgent memo? "I think Ritchie's a more skilled debater than we're anticipating. He has, after all, debated three gubernatorial candidates and won each time."
Sam:
And leak the memo?
C.J.:
Yeah.
Sam:
I think you'll look silly.
C.J.:
I'm used to that.
Sam:
I don't think it'll do much.
C.J.:
Me, neither.
President:
Cicero wanted to restore the overthrown king of Egypt, and the Roman Senate debated all day and into the night, every military and diplomatic consequence until they collapsed on the Senate floor.
President:
Lentulus is trying to overthrow the Republic. Ceaser goes up against Cato-- by the way, in the very first public debate on the death penalty. They were against each other, it was a debate and they explored the meaning of spirituality and suffering.
