"Now, in five years, this may be the rage and the way instead of doing face-to-face TV debates," he said. "But at this stage, at this level, at this time, I just can't imagine that it would be significant even if it did come off."

And he certainly doesn't blame Van Dam for trying a tactic like this against a heavily favored foe who happens to be a technological titan.

Hrebenar said he'd ignore his opponent and keep doing what was working if he had a big lead. The notion of maximizing dialogue during the race is more idealistic than realistic.

"In the real world of politics those decisions are not made on those principles," he said. "Those decisions are made on, 'What can we do that's going to enhance our chances of winning?' "

That's bad news for voters hoping for a debate in which they didn't have to listen to a word a politician had to say.

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E-mail: jody@desnews.com