2012 Democratic votes 65,915,796 - 51.1 percent
2012 Republican votes 60,933,500 - 47.2 percent
March 11, 2016
By Rick Kissell
Ratings Drop Off for Civilized GOP Debate on CNN (click here)One week after ratings soared to a 2016 high with an insult-ridden Republican debate on Fox News Channel, viewership fell off about 30% for CNN’s rather civil get-together last night.
According to preliminary national estimates from Nielsen, an average audience of 11.85 million (including 3.67 million in the news demo of adults 25-54) watched the CNN Republican Debate from 9-11 p.m. ET. CNN figures to stand as Thursday’s most-watched network (cable or broadcast), but last night’s debate from Miami ranks as the second smallest of seven GOP gatherings in 2016. (It fares better on the rankings list among adults 25-54, with last night’s total third best of the year)....
I question the wisdom of the frequent debates. It seems to be reaching the same audience. Volunteers for the campaigns canvasing their districts to bring voters to the polls is a better use of time.
The frequent debates are a ratings boost for the cable networks. Assuming the viewers of the debates are all separate individuals (which is not realistic - some tune in for both parties) that would provide about 10 - 15 percent of the electorate interested in the debates. I think the parties are looking at voter decision within the two weeks before the election date. That is what usually happens with presidential elections. The polls tighten and a clear picture of the electorate is more predictable.
If I thought the candidates were receiving a benefit from the debates I'd say so, but, I don't think that is it. I think the reason Michigan chose Bernie was because he opposes the trade agreements. Also, right in the middle of the lead up to Michigan's primary the announcement came about the amnesty for Bryan Pagliano.
Senator Sander's campaign has always done well with a strong human response and small donations. After the last Democratic debate he raised millions though. So, I think the candidates need to assess their plans and decide about the debates.
