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Republican Debate 2011

For anyone who has watched the recent Republican debates, you might have thought you were tuned into the Game Show Network rather than Fox News or CNN. From the crowd to the flashing lights to the witty intro music, it looks like Alex Trebek should be hosting these debates.

Former President Reagan at a debate

The debates open up with a long shot of the glowing red. white, and blue stage with the participants (contestants) at podiums and a cheering crowd. This atmosphere makes it undoubtedly better to watch debates, especially if you do not have much interest in politics, but want to keep informed as the election grows near.

 With the primary's starting at the beginning of 2012, debates are   critical to who will run against President Obama. Last presidential election, there was a mass effort to get young people to vote. It worked. Somewhere between 22 and 24 million Americans ages 18-29 voted for President in 2008. That was the highest turn out for this age group since 18 year-olds were first allowed to vote for president in 1972. These newly structured debates are another step in gaining the youths attention in politics.

Ratings for 2011 Rep. Debate

Look out for many more of these debates as November 6th, 2012 gets closer and come on down!

Written By:
Justin Kaufmann
Fall 2011 Intern
Temple University