LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The first 2020 presidential debate has created different reactions from viewers across the country.
UNLV Debate Team Director Jacob Thompson told 13 Action News that there were no winners from Tuesday's debate, but the biggest loss was for the American people.
“It was so bad that I don’t think that should be called a debate and it was very different from even the debates we saw in 2016. So, to me, it was a huge disappointment and I think for most people who were out there thought it was hard to watch,” Thompson said.
Constant interruptions from both sides and a lack of proposals only made it worst.
Chris Wallace struggled to keep control of candidates during debate
“Their policy positions, their personal stories, and the belief systems, and there really wasn’t an opportunity to do that. You literally could hear about a third of the things that they were saying because they were talking over each other," Thompson said.
When asked what was the moment that stood out for him, Thompson says unfortunately it was when the president declined to condemn the far-right group Proud Boys.
“It’s a sad moment when the sitting president refuses to condemn white supremacy and I think that's something that many Americans noticed," Thompson said.
Thompson also says he hopes that future debates are handled in a much better way from both presidential candidates.
“The takeaway is that the debate process needs to be altered. The candidates do not respect one another," Thompson said.
Debate changes coming; commission to add structure for ‘orderly discussion’
Reported changes are coming for the next presidential debate that includes shutting off the microphones if either candidate breaks the debate rules.
Mike Pence and Kamala Harris are scheduled next to square off in the vice presidential debate on Oct. 7.
