Four years ago, Rock the Debates was seeking out opportunities to question leading presidential candidates on whether they would agree to at least one general election presidential debate (if that candidate became the Democratic or Republican presidential nominee). Especially active were Larry Reinsch of Iowa, and Seth Cohn of New Hampshire. They attended public meetings at which Democratic and Republican presidential candidates were speaking and answering questions. If they were able to ask a question of the candidate, they would ask about that candidate’s attitude toward inclusive general election debates.

By October 2007, ten Democratic and Republican presidential contenders had been asked the question. Generally the exchange was videotaped. Hillary Clinton gave one of the best responses. Unfortunately, Rock the Debates has become inactive, but perhaps the organization, or a similar organization, will be revived.

Rock the Debates always asked the candidates if they would accept the idea of at least one general election debate in which every presidential candidate who was on the ballot in enough states to theoretically win, would be invited. In the entire history of United States presidential elections, there have never been more than seven such candidates. In 2004 and 2008, there were six such candidates. We know from the experience of presidential primary debates that a 6-candidate debate is not unwieldy.