Nielsen reports that 52.4 million viewers watched the debate Friday night. It definitely not among the top 10 highest rated debates and was even smaller than the first Bush – Kerry debate in 2004:
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52.4 Million Watch First McCain – Obama debate on Friday
Posted on 29 September 2008 by Robert Seidman
3 Responses to “52.4 Million Watch First McCain – Obama debate on Friday”
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The day of the week probably accounts for some of the lower viewership. The first 2004 debate aired on a Thursday night, while this year’s aired on a Friday, when HUT levels are tradionally much lower.
That’s a good point. the last time we checked they were definitely lower, though only about 15% or so if I remember right. the difference between 2008 and 2004 was about ~16% so that makes sense.
The SP and JB debates I think will get the highest ratings more than the Obama and JM one.At least it’ll be very entertaining in a sad and good way but we need in America bit of a breather.