To the editor:

The author of Oct. 16 Saturday Column wonders if the debates are important to the presidential election process. I believe the debates are a critical part of the campaigns.

American voters are bombarded by sound bytes from each candidate in the form of slogans, television advertisements, and out-of-context news clips. These sound bytes are often bombastic and negative. They are generally meant to portray an opponent in a misleading and unfavorable light and to present the candidate in an equally misleading positive light. They are stated outside the realm of discourse, discussion and refute. Ridiculous charges about one candidate or another are often thrown out without the chance for that person to respond. The casual voter is left without seeing the other side of the issue.

It is important for discerning voters to hear the candidates discuss issues in a forum which allows each to expound on and explain his views. It is equally important to hear how each opponent responds. Seeing the candidates engage in debate gives voters the opportunity to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their views.

Rather than question the usefulness of debates, critics should focus on the unbelievable 32 pages of inane rules that limit the candidates’ ability to engage in a real debate.

Kathryn Schartz,

Lawrence