The Format
A careful review of the transcript of the debate suggests that the town hall format prevented the citizens from arguing with the candidates. Carole Simpson, playing the role of moderator, circulated through the audience, selecting citizens to ask questions. Each questioner had opportunity to ask a single question, whereas each candidate claimed the right to all questions. Because audience members had no opportunity to ask follow-up questions, true interaction between the candidates and questioners was impossible was impossible. The debate had none of the public argument characteristic of the traditional New England town meeting because the format devised by the candidates prevented any possibility of dialogue. Even though all the citizens had a chance to ask questions, no one was able to engage the candidates on a particular issue.