Understanding Why I only Plan to Witness the Harris-Trump Debate on C-SPAN
The least-watched television network in your household is also the only platform I'd ever choose to witness a presidential debate. Over the years, from around 2012 up till today, I've observed nearly every presidential debate, both primaries and general elections. My fascination stems from an intrinsic masochism and an inability to avert my gaze from the chaos of our nation's political process. But let's not forget, C-SPAN is the catalyst.
What is C-SPAN exactly?
Established in 1979, C-SPAN is a public service television network primarily funded by cable and satellite services. A collaboration of various providers, C-SPAN offers unbiased, advertisement-free news coverage to almost every household in the United States, with the intention of enhancing public education and insight. It delves into both political and non-political topics (historical programming, author interviews), and has since expanded to include C-SPAN 2, C-SPAN 3, radio broadcasts, and live internet streams. Operating independently, the government has no influence over its content, and it never solicits donations. C-SPAN is essentially a hidden gem, often overlooked.
Isn't C-SPAN boring?
Indeed, C-SPAN is a haven of monotony on television. But if you have valid reasons for tuning in, its dullness turns into its greatest advantage (let me explain further). Imagine spending long hours online, using an ad-blocker to shield you from the plethora of pop-ups and trackers. Similarly, C-SPAN acts as a news ad-blocker, airing without the exaggeration, sensation, and desperation that characterizes contemporary media. Comedian Larry Wilmore once joked, "C-SPAN is the most popular network among people who died watching TV and no one's found them yet," and he's spot on. Wilmore's joke, unsurprisingly, can be found on C-SPAN itself, demonstrating that despite its tedium, its self-awareness is one of its unique selling points.
Is the Harris-Trump presidential debate worth watching?
Although I'll be tuning in for the Harris-Trump presidential debate, I would discourage others from doing the same. There are countless better ways to spend your time instead of participating in the political spectacle, under the false pretense of shaping an opinion you've likely already formed. Performing household chores, like cleaning, would be a far more productive alternative than the Hawthorne effect that will unfold from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. in Philadelphia on Sept. 10. Many have chosen to bear this burden, and highlights from the event will soon clutter our social media feeds. But if you insist on watching, do it on C-SPAN.
Why you should watch C-SPAN over other networks
Although C-SPAN might be the solitary spectacle on your television, it serves as a simple truth for information seekers uninterested in popular media's theatrics and bias: C-SPAN is the epitome of uncensored, straightforward news. It's akin to a Google search devoid of sponsored posts and intrusive advertisements. Debates can be infuriating, causing frustration and exasperation. Rather than subjecting yourself to network pundits, sport-like graphics, flashy animations, and commercial breaks, consider viewing the proceedings through an unbiased, non-reactive lens.
How to watch the Harris-Trump presidential debate on C-SPAN
The 2024 Harris-Trump presidential debate will be broadcast on ABC News and simultaneously simulcast on C-SPAN2 at 9 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Sept. 10. You may find your local C-SPAN2 channel through your cable provider, or alternatively, stream the debate live on C-SPAN’s website. Additionally, you can peruse an archive of past debates (though it's unlikely you will) or unearth a wealth of other content to cure insomnia.
The debate will be overseen by David Muir, the anchor for World News Tonight, as well as Linsey Davis, the anchor for ABC News Live Prime. A live audience will not be present during the event, and microphones will be muted while the opposing candidate is speaking. C-SPAN's coverage will commence at 8 p.m. ET, most likely centering around an empty auditorium, where the captivated few remain stationary.
Given your interest in the presidential debate and your preference for ad-free, unbiased coverage, you might consider streaming the event on C-SPAN's website. Alternatively, if you're looking for a platform where you can watch past presidential debates, C-SPAN's extensive archive is a great resource.
