The first US Senate debate was pretty much a non-event. Those watching didn’t learn a great deal. Both Senator Burr and Secretary of State Marshall were obviously well rehearsed. There were carefully rehearsed platitudes aplenty. It was extremely obvious neither candidate wanted much association with Washington and the federal government. Neither made any obvious mistakes but neither scored many points. The two really didn’t engage much, even though Marshall tried to get Burr to do so.

The format was simple enough to understand but the moderator appeared awkward and ill at ease, actually muffing a question that caused a bit of confusion. The questions submitted by broadcasters were pretty good, covering many of the issues with which a US Senator would deal but answers were short on specifics and we didn’t hear any new proposals. Both were very cautious not to offend anyone, especially the elderly and the military. Burr wins the race to declare victory first, with his declaration received at 8:03 p.m., three minutes after the event ended.

Overnight ratings will likely show few watched the debate but we can applaud broadcasters for making the attempt. Two more are scheduled before Election Day. We suspect viewership will decline.