The CPD’s mission is to ensure, for the benefit of the American electorate, that general election debates are held every four years between and among the leading nominees for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States. The commission is not controlled by any political party or outside organization and it does not endorse, support or oppose political candidates or parties. It receives no funding from the government or any political party, political action committee or candidate. The commission has sponsored general election presidential debates in every election since 1988.