I was there as a college student, writing for Nassau News and not as polished in the political landscape. I knew the players, but was a little in over my head. In 2008, while covering the presidential debate at Hofstra University, the issues were unclear and the platforms were uneven to my knowledge. This time around, I was ready.
Covering the debate last week, this time at Anton Community Newspapers, I researched, clicked, scrolled, flipped pages and the like, leading up to Oct. 16. Going in, I knew what had to be done.
I’m not afraid to admit I wasn’t the most knowledgeable person when it came to politics four years ago, but I give credit to my alma mater for hosting the debate, because that’s where my interest in the topic was born.
Watching the process go along, participating in covering a worldwide event in 2008 and now, it was an enriching experience being able to stand toe-to-toe with the likes of Tom Ridge, George Pataki, Rick Lazio, Chuck Schumer, John Kerry and David Axelrod, going back and forth in conversation. I could go on forever. Everyone who was anyone was at Hofstra last Tuesday.
From noon to 1 a.m., the Physical Fitness Center transformed into the Debate Media Center was my home for the day. What was a 12-plus hour day, felt much less than that.
It may have been because I knew what was going on; maybe it was the spectacle. Whatever it was, I had been there before.
—RF
