i find that when a person gets to an elected office, they do not debate everyone all day and then decide policy based on that.... so are debates really the best way to go about picking an elected official, and if not what would be the best way?
I think its more useful to know who NOT to elect. Those that implode or make complete fools of themselves in planned out, deliberate, controlled environments like that at the very least shouldn't qualify as president. The bigger issue is that we don't have any really good tells as to political "readiness" and leadership qualities. Even political experience doesn't ever equate to being president, the toughest job in the world. At the very least, every ballot should be required to have a single page policy description of what each candidate promises to do once in office. They are allowed to pick their 3 most imporant policies and describe them, but must also list 10-15 sub promises that they want to do. Those things should then be taken home as report cards for the candidates once elected. Decide if you agree with their plan, and keep a simple paper copy to hold them accountable come next election.