Debate Diary: How do candidates prepare for debates?

This is part of a series of articles examining and explaining the debate process in preparation for the U.S. Senate debate between Mark Warner and Jim Gilmore. The two will debate live Oct. 3 in Roanoke. Read related articles.

Candidate preparation for debates depends upon the specific strengths and weaknesses of the candidates. At the very least, they often practice with intense “Q&A” sessions. They develop key lines or responses to both potentially positive and attack questions. In addition, several attack lines are developed to challenge the opponent. Strategically, campaigns identify key constituent groups they wish to target with specific issues and answers. The goal is to reinforce the campaign’s key issues and themes as well as display images of leadership, friendliness and personal warmth.