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Viewers Offer Opinions on Presidential Debate

WILKES-BARRE — It is already being called the most watched political debate in history. Tens of millions of people tuned in to see the two major party can...
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WILKES-BARRE -- It is already being called the most watched political debate in history. Tens of millions of people tuned in to see the two major party candidates for president present their plans.

But is that what viewers and voters feel they got?

It was a commercial-free 90 minutes of Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, the first time the two stood on the same stage and debated in this presidential campaign.

Wilkes University Professor Jane Elmes-Crahall watched as a voter, a former debate moderator, and political science and communications professor. She points out the historical purpose of a debate is to give voters a better understanding of each candidate's plan should that person assume the highest office in this country.

From her perspective, this debate entertained more than it informed.

"I honestly think a two-party debate, we are not going to see that in the future because it isn't doing the voters much good," said Prof. Elmes-Crahall.

Elmes-Crahall and other voters are looking toward the scheduled second and third debates if they happen.

"Straighten this country out," said Joe Anella, when asked what he wanted from the candidates.  "We are in deplorable condition. We are in very deplorable conditions."

"I hope the candidates distinguish themselves more from one another than they have in this one," said Marcia Balesster.

If the candidates agree to debate again, the debates are scheduled for October 9 and October 19.

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