Local officials look forward to Tuesday's debate

With the presidential election just around the corner, presidential and vice-presidential debates have been a hot topic around the country — and they’re also the talk of the town.

Some choose to watch the debates at home, follow it on the internet or discuss the issues with a group of friends.

The second presidential debate will be held Tuesday, and Chapel Hill Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt said he plans to watch the debate with some friends.

He said watch parties, which bring a group of people together to view a live debate, bring a lot of excitement and get the community involved.

Chapel Hill Town Councilwoman Penny Rich said both of her children, who are high school students, were given assignments to watch the debate for their history and civics classes.

“What better civics lesson is it than to listen to the debate and then come to class and discuss it?” Rich said.

She and her children tuned into the Oct. 3 presidential debate together.

“In the past, I would invite some people over, listen to the debate and have a glass of wine,” she said.

But she said now the best viewing outlet for her family is a quiet night at home.

Although many expressed excitement about the debates, Carrboro Alderman Sammy Slade said he thinks the conversations are too scripted.

“It is a joke because they are rigged,” he said. “It is a charade.”

But he said he encourages residents to get involved and stay informed through other mediums.

Carrboro Alderwoman Lydia Lavelle said she recognizes the potential downside to watch parties.

“Sometimes you observe and pick up on things that others do not,” she said. “Then there is reinforcement that goes on if you all support the same candidate. It’s harder to be more open to the ideas of the other candidate.”

The Carrboro Board of Aldermen will be in session during Tuesday’s debate, but Lavelle said she’ll still try catch the end.

“I will rush home quickly and try to catch the commentators afterwards,” Lavelle said.