Debates: Do They Matter

     Most Americans don't start paying attention to a Presidential election until they begin thinking about what kind of character  they want to be on Halloween.  If a presidential debate is scheduled before you buy that mask then maybe  your interest in a presidential election  starts a little earlier.
     I have always read that debates rarely if ever effect the outcome of a presidential election but the first three presidential  and vice presidential debates seem to have reset both campaigns.  How the candidates handle unanticipated responses make for great Television theater but does it really matter who verbally staggers?  I enjoy watching such theater even if my candidate of choice is not leading in the polls because debates are simply the way the game is played. Does it matter who wins a presidential debate or for that matter who lives in the White House?  Probably not, life will go on no matter what!