Here is a new take on the the role of social networking and the politicial process. Myspace/MTV are sponsoring a series of presidential candidate dialogues. On different scheduled dates, individual candidates respond to questions in real time – there is no debate (see YouTube debate).
An interesting feature is the opportunity to participate by agreeing/disagreeing with stated positions. In the Read/WriteWeb blog analysis, it sounds like a good idea, but those who respond tend to agree with nearly all statements. Perhaps we are only willing to watch our favorite candidates. A debate at least exposes viewers to multiple candidates.