For background, I competed primarily in IEs at Glendale Community College (California), and was the Co-President of the GCC forensics team for two years. While I never personally competed in debate myself, I did help to research and construct arguments and affirmative cases for fellow team mates. This year (2016) I completed my BA in Communication from Cal State LA.

My vote is based off flow, and firmly believe that all facets of debate are equally important, unless a compelling enough argument is made to disregard a particular one (theory, kritik, contentions, etc, etc.)

Contentions: Even if your opponent drops a contention, I expect an explanation as to why you win an argument, why it’s a voting issue, and of course your claim, impact, and warrant on the contention. 

Theory and Kritiks: I will vote as if I have no knowledge of the literature or author to which you reference, outside of the information you specifically use in your debate. 

Cards/Docs: I will only request to read your cards if the debate is an extremely, extremely close call, or if the validity of the source is in question. I have always viewed debate specifically as a performative artwork. I want to hear your arguments—not read someone else’s. Give me the relevant information in-round, and we’ll have no problems. 

Spreading: I will not yell clear. I expect you to be able to make your arguments audible and understandable while speaking to fit the time frame of the debate. As I said, I vote based off of my flow—and if I can’t understand you, your arguments won’t be written on it. 

Speaker points: Just be nice. I like clever pop culture references. Puns make me groan. 

I’d be happy to answer any other questions you have before round. However, after round, I will not discuss your arguments with you until after my ballot has been turned in. That being said, I’ll gladly chat about your speaking style!