Firing Line
Debate: Resolved That the Senate Should Ratify the Proposed Panama Canal Treaties
Specials • E99 60m
This two-hour debate, the first one done specially for Firing Line, is said to have influenced the subsequent Senate debate on the treaties-and also Mr. Reagan's electability as President two years thence. Each principal was to bring two seconds and a military expert; Mr. Bunker was present to answer any technical questions about the treaties. The result was at once a brilliant duel and a model of civilized discourse on an emotional topic.