With the passing of Jim Lehrer, there were tributes from friends and colleagues for this very good journalist who brought us the news without dramatic audio, flashy graphics or bias. Together with Robert MacNeil, Jim Lehrer founded what is now The PBS News Hour, which provides not just the headlines but discussion of the details, the background information that helps us better understand the events of the day. I have friends who watch FOX or MSNBC; I ask them to try the News Hour for a week. I think both can find relief from the hype and will have confidence in the content.

We remember Mr. Lehrer’s role as moderator of 12 presidential debates. Seeing those clips is a reminder of what’s missing in our current debates; the dispassionate tone of a seasoned journalist asking about issues rather than comments one candidate made about another. It seems both candidates and journalists are looking for viral moments with which to stand out from the crowd. This is no way to evaluate a candidate for president. We’re not learning about their policies, their character – maybe who has a clever quip ready.

Fortunately, we have the New Hampshire primary, where candidates speak to small groups answering questions from regular people. I have met many of the candidates (some several times) and have decided to support U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo, to be the Democratic nominee. I find that his practical proposals not only make sense but could win bipartisan support. This should lead to fewer government shutdowns, better prospects for budgets that meet the needs of the American people.

Don’t let the polls and pundits make your mind up for you. Make the effort to attend an event, look him over and you’ll find someone you could see in the White House with your vote.

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