Today is the day. A sense of excitement runs among true politicos as they anticipate the evening debates. For it will be the first time the nation has the opportunity to see our Presidential nominees face-off one-on-one.

While most of us would never admit it, we secretly hope there will be a gaffe. Honestly, we do. The fact is that neither Mr. Romney nor Mr. Obama are the kings of oratory and charisma. They are both somewhat stiff and a little stand-offish.

However, it is rare that a gaffe occurs in the debates. The candidates hope for the memorable line that will stick with voters to illustrate the contrast with their opponent.

President Obama may be a slightly better debater than Romney and he has the experience of his first Presidential election to rely upon. However, Mr. Romney managed to do fairly well in the multiple debates he faced during his climb to gain the Republican nomination. In fact, he knocked off one opponent after another and became the last man standing.

The Romney campaign has been putting out lots of information that lower expectations of his debate performance. They will “be happy” if it is a boring debate. It most likely will be boring.

But folks, let me point this out to you. These debates are the most primal, basic element of our democracy. It is the one time during the campaign that you get to see the candidates directly discussing policy with each other. They are not speaking through their spokespeople or through third-party campaign ads. Admittedly, they will be scripted and have practiced many hours but it will still be the man alone on the stage with his opponent.

It is my hope that people will tune-in and watch the unfettered candidates directly discuss the issues with each other. Remove all of your pre-existing notions and genuinely listen to what they have to say. Then, consider making an honest decision on your own, without the influence of others.