Exactly. I had something in there about my own "need" to watch. I was actually not going to watch at all, but then my editor called to ask if I'd "live blog" and write a response.

So yes, capitalism came calling. And the pressure to watch and draw something significant weighed heavy.

This piece ended up being a bit like signing off Facebook - no more a condemnation of the form than our own willingness to give it ratings.

Of course, plenty of folks (in the comments above) feel that Trump is making very important strides against the Deep State in these debates. So obviously many feel this reality show is doing the Good Work. But those interested in genuine civics may do best to avoid them. The antics at the Republican debates last cycle are what preciptated this recent slide into WWF style engagement.