Can we DU a better debate???

Allrighty then, I had an idea last night in that weird state between wake and sleep and it just came back to me now. I think that we all are a bit perturbed that faux has televised two of the democratic presidential debates so far and wish that we could have been asking the questions.

I also think that most of us believe that we are the hardcore progressives and more activist minded than most dems and most voters in general. Chris Hines is a DUer and Elizabeth Edwards at least lurks. I would warrant that all the candidates have at least someone to monitor DU to take our pulse. (As well as many rebugs.)

So, here is my idea. Why don't we get DU to sponsor a democratic presidential candidate debate. I had envisioned an on-line debate right here on DU. Could any candidate afford non-participation on a forum with the most hard-core, active progressives??

I think that we could nominate a few even handed DUers to moderate and ask questions, they would all have to be ABB. My first nominee would be Will Pitt, of course. We could have a time frame that would allow for suggested questions from the body of DU for consideration.

I admit that I am a tyro when it comes to the political process and setting up a debate, but I don't see the downside. Sure, the right could possibly frame it as the dem candidates giving validation to a bunch of conspiracy theorists and tin foil hatters but I happen to believe that while there may be a few here that are "out there" the majority are well informed, patriotic americans who want what is best for our country and the planet.

Obviously, this is just a germ of an idea at present. I have no idea what my compatriots here will think of it or how to try to make it an actuality. I do think that if it were to happen it would possibly solve much of the candidate flame bashing (or maybe not) but it certainly would give me TONS of respect to every candidate who participated.

For the candidates, it would be an opportunity to recruit activists. For DU, I think it would add some prestige as well as a plethora of new members joining to take part.

Ok, my writing biorhythms are not at peak at present but the idea is out there, let's see where it goes. I, for one, respect the hell of DU and feel it's a legitimate outlet for the next president to espouse his/her views. Any thoughts are appreciated, thanks.

I would like a bit more time from the candidates and less of the media hype. The questions not asked, are even more important than those that are asked.

I would like to see the demo candidates deal with what is on here, OR, i would like to see what is on here deal with the demo candidates.