2020’s presidential primary debates were highly unusual in many respects, taking place in the midst of a pandemic and featuring more candidates than in any previous election. What made this election cycle even more unpredictable were the unusually unpopular candidates who found their way to the debate stage.
These candidates were often derided as outliers, lacking public support and struggling to make their voices heard. Nonetheless, their presence offered an opportunity for viewers to learn more about the candidates and their platforms.
One of the most politically unpopular candidates was Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, who ran for the Democratic nomination. Gabbard’s unorthodox approach to politics and her unabashed criticisms of her own party’s leaders stirred up controversy. Nonetheless, her presence on the debate stage provided viewers with an opportunity to hear an honest accounting of the most difficult issues facing the nation.
Other similarly unforgiving candidates included former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and ex-New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Both candidates endured similar criticism for their divisive rhetoric, but both also offered unique perspectives on the presidential race. Patrick, for example, voiced his support for a range of social justice measures and government transparency. Bloomberg, on the other hand, offered a distinctly business-focused platform, advocating for the economic development of disadvantaged communities.
Thus, despite a lack of mainstream support, these polarizing candidates provided an important counter-narrative to the more presentable candidates on stage. This was especially noteworthy for the Democratic primary, where many of the leading contenders declared themselves progressives. Without Gabbard, Patrick, and Bloomberg, the progressive movement’s upper limits may not have been accurately tested.
In sum, the debates helped shed light on candidacies that would otherwise have been overlooked. Going forward, it is essential that the public remain open to candidates with unconventional platforms. By doing so, we can ensure that all voices are heard and that the nation’s issues are addressed.
