Showmanship and spectacle won’t make up for a lack of policy and vision—or the outright lies told on stage by both candidates. These were some of the reactions from The Real News Network (TRNN) staff and contributors after Tuesday’s highly anticipated debate between presidential candidates.

As the two candidates took the stage, it was clear that they were more focused on attacking each other than presenting a clear and concise vision for the future of America. The debate quickly devolved into a mudslinging match, with both candidates making outlandish claims and accusing each other of lying.

But as the dust settles, it is important to remember that a flashy debate performance does not equate to effective leadership. Showmanship and spectacle may capture the attention of the audience, but it cannot mask the lack of substance and policy discussion.

The TRNN team argues that the real winner of this debate should have been the American people. Unfortunately, they were instead subjected to a spectacle that did little to enlighten them on the candidates’ plans for the country’s future.

One of the major issues highlighted by TRNN was the lack of policy and vision from both candidates. While there were brief moments of discussion on important topics such as healthcare, climate change, and racial injustice, they were often overshadowed by personal attacks and interrupting each other.

It is alarming to see how little the candidates have to offer in terms of concrete plans and policies to address these pressing issues. The American people deserve leaders who are committed to solving real problems, not just scoring political points or appeasing their base.

Furthermore, the outright lies and misinformation spread by both candidates on the debate stage only added to the disappointment of the TRNN team. The American people deserve honesty and transparency from their leaders, not deliberate attempts to mislead and manipulate them.

The TRNN contributors also noted the lack of diversity on the debate stage, with both candidates being wealthy, white, and older men. This further highlights the need for a more inclusive and representative political system that truly reflects the diversity of the American people.

In order to truly serve the people, leaders must have a vision for the future and the policies to back it up. They need to have a clear understanding of the challenges facing the country and present concrete solutions to address them.

But sadly, this was not the case in Tuesday’s debate. Instead, the American people were subjected to a performance that did little to inspire or inform them. It is clear that there is a dire need for change in the political landscape of America.

As the TRNN team continues to cover the election and beyond, they urge the American people to demand more from their leaders. It is time to focus on substance over spectacle, and to hold our leaders accountable for their words and actions.

In conclusion, showmanship and spectacle may attract attention, but it is policy and vision that will truly make a difference in the lives of the American people. Let us not be swayed by flashy performances and instead demand real leadership from those who seek to represent us. The future of our country depends on it.