Debate, don’t hate: #KaineVSPence

Kaine+and+Pence+discuss+hard+hitting+issues+during+the+vice+presidential+debate+moderated+by+Elaine+Quijano+%28Photo+courtesy+of+review+journal.com%29

Kaine and Pence discuss hard hitting issues during the vice presidential debate moderated by Elaine Quijano (Photo courtesy of review journal.com)

Ivy Phelps, News Editor

The vice presidential debate watch party was held in Shearer Hall at 7:45 p.m. The event was hosted by Mike Davis and Shannon McCraw. The majority of seats were filled initially. As the debate commenced, the number of watchers began to dwindle.

Watchers in Shearer Hall were encouraged to live tweet throughout the vice presidential debate using the hashtag #sedebatewatch.

Davis and McCraw stressed the importance of discussing initial reactions after debate without the influence of national media.

Observers in Shearer Hall discussed the role fear played in presidential debates and campaigns. Are we more motivated by fear and/or negative attributes and actions of opposing candidates or positive influences of each candidate?

Body language of the vice presidential candidates was another topic discussed. Observers noted each candidate was sitting throughout the entire debate. Watchers argued this seating arrangement could have made it easier for Elaine Quijano to moderate the debate.

Watchers brought up how often Kaine and Pence interrupted each other throughout the debate. Davis brought up an important theory behind this obnoxious behavior.

Davis noted there would be no viral videos of either candidate making a powerfully seamless argument if it never existed. If either candidate is about to potentially make a strong point, it is beneficial for the opposing candidate to interrupt.

The final debate watch party will be held on Sun, Oct. 9 in Shearer Hall at 7:45 p.m.

McCraw and Davis moderating the discussion following the vice presidential debate
McCraw and Davis moderating the discussion following the vice presidential debate