Moderator Jim Lehrer Talks About Wednesday's Debate

by: Oreo

Thu Sep 27, 2012 at 15:00:00 PM EDT

Q: Can you describe the presidential debate's format?

A: There are six segments of 15 minutes each. Each candidate will get a two-minute answer to the first question in each segment and then there will be an open discussion. I selected the subjects for the six segments and all of the questions.

Q: How does this format differ from those you have moderated in the past?

A: This is a major change. Previous debates have mostly been more restricted on the timing of specific answers, responses, etc. This is the first time open discussion time of these lengths have been permitted.

Q: Why do debates matter?

A: They are the only opportunities the voters have to see and hear the candidates talk about the same things at the same time—and to take a real time comparative measure of them.