Presidential Debate Tips

 If you're like me, you respect the right to watch two embattled politicians storm the party lines in front of a live audience but perhaps feel a little exhausted by the entire debacle debate cycle. With the first 2012 Presidential Debate coming up this Wednesday, October 3, at the University of Denver, the First Amendment Center has some handy tips for how to make the most of of watching this election season's televised debates.

This guide should enable you to come away from the debates a more informed citizen. Once you've seen the candidates hash out the issues, don't forget to register to vote! You still have time, but Election Day is fast approaching. For Washington voters, you may register up to 30 days before the election or 15 days if delivered in person to your local voter registration office.

So remember, remember, ahem, the 6th of November, as well as the words of Justice Black in Wesberry v. Sanders, 376 U.S. 1, 17 (1964):

"No right is more precious in a free country than that of having a voice in the election of those who make the laws under which, as good citizens, we must live. Other rights, even the most basic, are illusory if the right to vote is undermined."

Stirring, yes? Register and vote!