How the Democratic Debates Narrow the Field

<p>Twenty Democratic presidential candidates have appeared on the debate stage for the last time. That’s in part because the Democratic National Committee has introduced a set of rules explicitly designed to narrow the field. We look at the intended and unintended consequences of that change. Guest: Reid J. Epstein, a political reporter for The New York Times. For more information on today’s episode, visit <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/thedaily" target="_blank">nytimes.com/thedaily</a>. </p><p>Background reading: </p><ul><li>It will be twice as hard for the 2020 Democrats to qualify for the next debate. In addition to<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/08/01/us/politics/next-democratic-debate.html?smid=pc=thedaily" target="_blank"> the seven who already have</a>, three are within striking distance.</li><li>Democratic candidates aiming to replace President Trump are<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/19/us/politics/next-democratic-debates.html?smid=pc-thedaily" target="_blank"> forced to choose between adopting his media tactics or being left behind as others do</a>.</li></ul>