Reporters vs. undecided voters: An analysis of the questions asked during the 1992 presidential debates

For the first time in the history of televised presidential debates, organizers in 1992 used undecided voters to query the candidates, a significant deviation from the traditional practice of using experienced journalists. The present study uses quantitative and qualitative analysis to compare the questions asked by undecided voters and reporters. Results indicate reporters used more successful question types and asked questions more concisely, however they were equally if not more likely to jeopardize question clarity. Reporters were also more likely to ask more argumentative, accusatory, and leading questions. Both groups did reasonably well addressing topics considered important in making vote decisions.

Key concepts:

• Presidential debates
• elections
• debate question types
• political campaigns