When political coverage turns into sportscasting

Is it a good thing?

I wouldn’t want to try to referee tonight’s debate for all the tea, as they say. Image by Keith Johnston from Pixabay

As we approach tonight’s much discussed Presidential Candidate Debate, I am struck by the extent to which the coverage resembles sportscasting.

What are the odds someone will fumble?

Is all this training going to lead to a dramatic touchdown?

Who will be able to deliver the knockout blow?

What’s the handicapping?

Who’s been doing the coaching?

Will old injuries resurface to plague the contestants?

Who’s going to deke and who’ll control the puck?[1]

This is supposed to be an opportunity for American voters to “see the candidates” unfiltered, listen to their positions, hear their arguments, assess their strengths and weaknesses. Supposedly.

But the commentary I’m hearing across multiple media platforms is very similar to the hype during the run up to a big game.

Analysis, predictions, references to previous debates and polling — all presented as if it will be an entertaining clash…