Debates in the United States, however useless and theatrical they might be, are a fundamental part of democracy and elections in our country. It's easy to mock and jeer at the debaters, I know I did several times, but we cannot simply skip these debates, not if we actually care about the direction we are going in as a nation and as a civilization. These debates motivate us as citizens to listen to candidates we otherwise might not listen too.
These are platforms for real and legitimate conversations, even if that isn't the way they are used by contemporary Republicans. These debates have a powerful history, and if we care about our country they will continue to remain a fundamental part of our nation's electoral process.
Right now we are at a critical point in history. This coming election is truly the most significant election we've had to date, in our lifetimes. We are a crucial point in terms of climate change. We are at a significant time when it comes to how we handle terrorism, on a global level. We are at a pivotal point, when it comes to dealing with illegal drug trade and powerful criminal organizations that feed off of the weak. Technology has connected us, to our fellow human beings all over the planet. No longer do we live in isolated areas, and no longer do we merely live in our own states. even if that's the case physically. We can see each other. We can walk out of the darkness of isolation and we can recognize each other, and we can become friends with those different from us, and we can demand that we are all treated with respect and dignity.
This is the time to vote. This is the time for every single citizen of our great country to demand change, and to show that we want change in the polls. It isn't enough to say that Republicans, or Democrats, are saying crazy things. It's time for us to collectively meet and decide what direction we want our nation to move in. And express that by selecting leaders who will move us in that direction.
This is the time for powerful characters to appear in politics who demand change and produce results. I know I will be working both during college and after it, to inspire people to pay attention to the political process. And to inspire people to participate in politics, in a variety of ways. I want to build networks of fellow voters, who listen to each and every debate. Which is why, I loved last night. It was a great turnout for the first time I have ever tried to "host" something like this. And it's why I plan on continuing to do what I did last night. I am going to host viewing parties for every debate from now on. I am going to work to make sure each presidential candidate is taken seriously by myself, and by my friends. Regardless of whichever party the candidate represents.
Watch the debates. All of them. And listen to the candidates. Take the candidates seriously. Grant the candidates the respect they deserve, and respect the platform they use to speak. Even if they refuse to do that for their competitors. I am going to listen to every single man and woman who believes they should lead our country.
And that is why I am inviting everyone, regardless of where you might stand in terms of your party choice to watch the next debate with me. It is November 10th. And I for one am excited to hear what the candidates have to say, even if I disagree with them. It will be in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hosted by the Wall Street Journal, and the Fox Business Network. I would love for as many people as possible to come join me! I hope we get to have real conversations about politics and politicians. And I hope it is bipartisan, with both Republicans and Democrats turning out to respectfully discuss the candidates.
These debates can and should unite people. And I am going to work to bring people together, regardless of whether someone is red, or blue. I hope you join me.
If you live in the Triad, and want to watch the next debate, do it. Either with me, or with your own community. But don’t just do it alone. Make it a fun event, where people can gather for friendly conversation. I want to make debate viewing parties the norm. And I hope you help me. Regardless of wherever you live.
