This paper is an analysis of how competitive debate organizations have solved many of the criticisms that have been leveled at political and (specifically) presidential debating and, thus, provides models that presidential debates can be patterned after to improve the quality of the debating that is taking place in the political realm. The paper's models suggested for presidential debates are: (1) a more clearly worded debate topic; (2) a more traditional academic debate format; (3) more focus on issues and less on image; and (4) more clearly spelled out rules and judging criteria. The paper elaborates on the benefits of having presidential debates be more like academic debates. (Author/CR)