"Debate Season" is has a long history in The United States of America. Seeing and Hearing our candidates address each other while engaging the public is a tradition that should not be limited to a chosen few.
"The Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD) was established in 1987 to ensure that debates, as a permanent part of every general election, provide the best possible information to viewers and listeners. Its primary purpose is to sponsor and produce debates for the United States presidential and vice presidential candidates and to undertake research and educational activities relating to the debates."
The CPD's rules exclude candidates from participating. Bi-partisan in this case is partisan.
Please encourage the PDC to adjust their rules to be more inclusive.