How to Herd... Debaters
Is one speaker dominating your debate? Madam Chair has some advice.
Dear Madam Chair,
I recently chaired a debate on a contentious redistricting bill. Usually I try to give each speaker their time, reminding everyone that the number one rule in a Braver Angels debate is: “say what you truly believe.” That said, throughout the debate one participant offered an extraneous speech and then continually failed to ask actual questions of other speakers, using those opportunities instead to assert his own opinions further.
I remember discussing the idea that “individuals don’t like to be moderated, but groups do” during my training. Is there something I could have done that would have supported the group, but also not have come off as scolding or singling this individual out?
Sincerely,
(Overly) Gracious Greg
Dear Greg,
This is definitely a sticky situation!
Braver Angels debates provide a unique opportunity for participants to feel heard – but sometimes that makes it difficult for participants to find a balance between sharing their opinions and asking curious questions of others doing the same. This may be the first time a participant has felt empowered to share their opinion, and if they feel the moment is fleeting and that they haven’t gotten all of their thoughts out, it’s not uncommon for a question to suddenly sound a lot more like a speech.
Fear not! Let’s walk through some of the tools, tips, and tricks you can use if this situation arises in the future.
Tip #1: Begin the debate by tuning into the Braver Angels Way. – Read the BA Way aloud and remind participants: everyone gets a turn! If someone is hogging the mic, kindly refer back to these norms.
Tip #2: Set Expectations Early. In your opening speech, remind participants: “If your question starts sounding like a manifesto, I will gently reel you back in and ask you to come to a question for the speaker or consider giving a later speech”. This makes it easier to interrupt later with a polite, “And your question is...?”
Tip #3: Stay above the fray. Our role is not to be a “relevance referee” or interrupt a speaker’s remarks. The moment you judge the content of speeches, the room thinks you’ve picked a side – even if you’re just trying to keep the train on the tracks.
Tip #4: Don’t be afraid to ask the question “Is there anyone we haven’t heard from yet?” – Invite other participants into the conversation! Before calling on the same eager hand again, ask if anyone new wants a turn. Silence is okay; give folks a second to build up courage – we want to hear as many voices and perspectives as we can in the debate.
Madam Chair is confident that with these tips in your back pocket you are well equipped to navigate the challenging situations that may come your way.
From my gavel to yours—you’ve got this!
-Madam Chair