Chris Ellis, assistant professor of political science, says history and research prove that the presidential debates don’t influence voters. Professor Ellis’ areas of expertise include U.S. elections, presidential politics and political ideology and identity.

Quote:“Traditionally the debates don’t do that much to sway voters one way or another. They always provide one or two memorable moments: the ‘Are you better off now than you were four years ago,’ the ‘You’re no jack Kennedy.’ But by the time we get to the debates, unless one of the candidates really outperforms the other, most of the voters have more or less made up their minds.”

Please note: Bucknell University can provide a satellite uplink for live or pre-recorded television interviews. Please call Andy Hirsch at 570-238-1561 to arrange an interview.