Turn off microphones during next debate

Chris Wallace’s disastrous mishandling of the first presidential debate is inexcusable for one simple reason: It was obvious he would be dealing with an obnoxious, bellicose bully in President Donald Trump; he should have been prepared to control the situation.

If for any reason a moderator is so intimidated as to be unable to control the situation, then he or she shouldn’t take the assignment. In addition, I’d suggest giving each moderator the ability to cut off the microphone of any uncooperative candidate.

MacKenzie Allen

Santa Fe, N. M.

Trump, in an incoherent rant, dominated the debate stage and continually interrupted and attacked former Vice President Joe Biden. He lied continuously and refused to condemn white supremacists. The Proud Boys have a new slogan, prompted by Trump, to “stand back and stand by.”

Trump also wants his poll watchers to look very carefully at who is voting, which is a call for voter intimidation as no doubt these poll watchers will question minority voters. Trump said the election won’t be pretty, and it won’t be because of him.

Wallace, the debate moderator, was obviously frustrated as things spun out of control due to Trump’s antics. No real issues were discussed or debated, but Biden managed to stand his ground in the chaos created by Trump.

For the next two debates, the ratings will probably drop, and ratings are what matters to Trump. Biden gains nothing by going to the next two debates as Trump will continue to perform like he is in a wrestling match.

Americans lost Tuesday night because the presidency has been dragged into the gutter by Trump.

George Magakis Jr.

Norristown, Pa.

George Bernard Shaw once said, “I learned long ago, never to wrestle with a pig. You get dirty, and besides, the pig likes it.”

Tuesday night’s event was more like two children sparring, trying to one up each other. Neither took the high road, though there was ample opportunity for that.

Biden would have been best to have said nothing at times, instead allowing Trump to ramble.

Biden should have turned to his opponent, during one of Trump’s pauses, and said, “Are you serious? You are the president of the United States and yet act like a child by your statements and actions.” Distance between the candidates would have increased by calling Trump out for thrashing the dignity of the office of the presidency.

Joe Biden, do not wrestle with Donald Trump. Rethink your approach for the next debate.

Mark Titelbaum

Taunton, Mass.