Commission on Presidential Debates

impartial deliberative procedural

The Commission on Presidential Debates determines schedules and formats for candidate face-offs. C.J. tells reporters the White House awaits its ruling on Bartlet's push for four or five debates against Ritchie's two, framing it as the neutral arbiter in a standoff that shapes election visibility. This body influences public political engagement through procedural decisions amid campaign maneuvering.

2 appearances

Presidential Debates

Also known as: commission, commision

Commission on …'s Journey

A timeline through the narrative

2 moments

S4E4 · The Red Mass

Managing Expectations: C.J. Deflects Debate Questions

Neutral institutional presence; its decisions carry weight but it has no emotional stake in the politics.

Referenced by C.J. as the neutral arbiter whose recommendation will decide debate format; functions as the procedural endpoint everyone awaits.

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S4E4 · The Red Mass

Hallway: Strategy Clash to Immediate Action

Neutral and procedural in the scene; its looming decision shapes the administration's public posture.

Mentioned by C.J. as the neutral arbiter awaiting to recommend debate format; invoked to justify lack of immediate commitment on number of debates.

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Affiliation

Red Mass

Judicial Religious Ceremonies and White House Public Engagements