Many also shared a vision for restoring the country’s reputation on the world stage.

“Beating Trump will result in improvements on most issues and be a positive reflection to the world and our children that we are indeed a decent country,” said John Buckley in Pittsburgh.

[We tracked down the 2020 Democrats and asked them the same set of questions. Watch them answer.]

On the importance of debates in choosing a candidate

Some readers said they viewed the upcoming debates as an opportunity to assess where candidates stand on issues and whether they answer questions directly. Others saw them as a chance to take stock of the character of the candidates. Still others want to see how candidates might respond to direct attacks on stage, which could offer a glimpse into how they would interact with Mr. Trump should they become the nominee.

Sharon Hill from North Carolina wrote, “I want to see signs that a candidate will not be thrown off by the petty tactics that the current president will inevitably pile onto her/him.”

But there were also readers who said debates were essentially useless forums that rewarded peacocking and little else.

“I worry that the current system for debates is leaving out what could be viable candidates,” Margaret Rogers from Colorado said, before advocating for more town hall-style events “where I can get a more in-depth look at the candidates.”

Rob Cope from Philadelphia put it more succinctly: “I have never gleaned any information from a debate that affected my vote.”

On the size of the Democratic field

Nearly every reader weighed in on the size of the Democratic presidential field, which includes more than the 20 candidates who will appear on the debate stage. Some viewed the large and diverse field as advantageous, offering them a wide range of candidates to consider.