Zelizer : Top priority for candidates in debates is to avoid mistakes . and I think there are more effective ways to deal with violent crime . '' He says gaffes have the potential to change how voters view a candidate . Candidates are viewed not only for what they say but for their body language , he says . Zelizer : one , Mitt Romney will be under a microscope the years night when the debates begin .
Zelizer : Top priority for candidates in debates is to avoid mistakes . He says gaffes have the potential to change how voters view a candidate . Candidates are viewed not only for what they say but for their body language , he says . Zelizer : one , Mitt Romney will be under a microscope the years night when the debates begin .