CUMULATIVE TIME DEBATE FORMAT1
This format is designed to enable candidates to freely elaborate
on their approaches to a variety of issues, unimpeded by the strict time
constraints of a more traditional debate format. The LWVCT has found this format
promotes interchange between candidates, allows them to hold each other to
account, and keeps the voters' interest while enabling them to see the
difference between the candidates.
Each candidate, when speaking, is timed by his or her own
timekeeper and each cumulative time is kept. Periodically, generally whenever
one candidate stops speaking and another begins, all the timekeepers
simultaneously hold up their signs indicating the amount of time used by each
candidate. The moderator and the candidates see how their time usage compares,
and the candidates can self-moderate to balance any significant discrepancies in
time usage. In addition, from time to time the moderator informs candidates if
sizable discrepancies appear to be developing so that candidates who are behind
may avail themselves of the opportunity to use more time. This format encourages
a candidate to respond as briefly as desired on a topic deemed less important or
on which there is no disagreement and to use the allotted time to discuss more
fully subjects considered more important.
Candidates are encouraged to rebut and sur-rebut, responding to
their differences as they perceive them, understanding that the "clock is
running." In this format candidates have the opportunity to hold each other
to account rather than having this role assumed by the moderator and/or
panelists. The moderator simply reminds the candidates of the clock and moves to
another question when the topic appears exhausted. Candidates are not allowed to
"save up" time during the questioning and use it to make a speech at
the end.
Each round of discussion is initiated by the moderator/one of
the members of the panel. The same question is addressed to each candidate
before direct debate between/among candidates is invited. Candidates take turns
being first to respond to the question.
Each candidate has two minutes for a closing statement. The
order of precedence is determined by lot prior to the debate. The winner chooses
his position in the order of the closing statements. The same order is used to
begin the questioning.
1The League is indebted to Don Noel of
The Hartford Courant
for introducing us to the concept of cumulative time for debates. Over time our
experience has led us to vary his approach somewhat but his original concept is
still here.
