What Would You Ask the Presidential Candidates?

Campaign debates are a chance for voters to see the issues discussed and candidates battle in public.

Sure, most modern candidates, especially those running in national campaigns, are so polished and prepped going in that they likely will be able to answer any question that comes their way.

But it's those moments were a candidate is caught off guard, or doesn't have the perfect response, that can make the difference. Moderator questions can sometimes set a politician back or get them to offer a candid, unrehearsed response.

Want to hear what the candidates have to say? Join us for a debate viewing at Moraine Valley Community College starting 7:30 p.m. Bring your opinions. We'll bring dessert. 

Tonight's debate will pit President Barack Obama (D) against Gov. Mitt Romney (R) at the University of Denver. TV anchor Jim Lehrer, who is moderating the first of three presidential debates (a fourth is planned for Vice Presidential candidates Joe Biden and Paul Ryan).

Half of the 90-minute debate is expected to revolve around the economy, the L.A. Times reports. This first round of televised debating will focus on domestic issues, with foreign topics coming in subsequent debates.

Follow election coverage on Orland Park Patch and Palos Patch.

Is the economy the biggest issue with you? Does the future job market worry you more than anything else?

Patch turned to the readers to ask them what one question they would ask either candidate. Here's what we got back:

Dianna Nelson I would ask both candidates why they are not lobbying to give themselves the same benefits as they give to us.

Alan Perkaus What is your view on smaller Government?

Sharon Dooley Rogers What happened to the Pledge of Allegiance, & are you gonna bring it back?

Matt Friesser Mitt: obama has helped me get insurance through a state funding so i can live a life with maintaining incurable back issues and a long life ahead of me dealing with multiple sclerosis.... I like your business type ethics and believe we need that to boost our economy, but if you repeal anything obama has done to help with my insurance...where does that put me in the economy? am i just a number that no one cares about? do i just wither and die? and for obama: Thanks for helping me get my health on a manageable train...but as for the rest of your efforts i feel as though you have failed... bailing out businesses was NOT the right thing to do... you could have given a million dollars to every citizen in debt and spent way less money, and had a more successful outcome...if i vote for you for another 4 years, does that mean our economy stays the same, you spend more money, we pay more money in taxes to cover your mistakes...and just enjoy the ride going nowhere? give the u.s. citizens a reason to believe that our economy will turn around due to your dedicated work, and less vacations to martha's vineyard!

There's still time to sound off before the debate. What question do you want the candidates to answer?

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