Are presidential debates important?

With weeks to go until the US presidential election, the two main candidates have held their first TV debate.

Republican Donald Trump and his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton fought over the economy, national security and foreign policy.

Polls suggest the race for the country’s top job is close.

Trump questioned Clinton’s stamina, she accused him of hiding something in his tax returns.

Clinton highlighted her extensive experience while in public office as First Lady, then Senator, before becoming Secretary of State.

But Trump blamed her for many of America’s problems including the threat of ISIL. He also accused her of not having the right look and temperament.

So, can televised debates change how people vote?

Presenter: Jane Dutton

Guests:

Jocelyn Mitchell – Assistant Professor at Northwestern University in Qatar

Lincoln Mitchell – Author and Journalist

David Love – Executive Editor, blackcommentator.com