Give debate moderators more control

The debate between Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris was a sham. The moderator, Susan Page, who I hold in high regard, was either too restrained or without the power to enforce debate rules. Pence frequently sidestepped questions. Harris was forced to parry points Pence raised. Page prepared excellent questions. Regrettably, many were not answered. To make the debates more valuable, the commission needs to arm the moderators with a stronger range of powers to control the candidates. William Plesec

Cleveland

The country is divided. But Wednesday night’s vice presidential debate proved that all of us should take a moment to be thankful that we are doing something right, even if progress is slow.

Two vice presidential candidates. One, for the first time, is a woman of color. And not just any woman of color, but a genuine star. Is there any doubt that Sen. Kamala Harris belonged on that stage? She proved beyond dispute that she can compete with the men. It was a good night for the nation. Now we know in a very real sense that a woman of color can lead the free world. Michael Kenny

Atlanta

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