I do not have a specific paradigm that I adhere to. I prefer the competitors to assume that I am green to the resolution and they are trying to educate me on the topic at hand. An informative, factual debate is preferred - philosophy optional. It is imperative that your value and criterion are strong and your evidence is supported by that and vice versa.

Respect is always top priority, both toward the judge(s) and toward opponents.

Clash is important, as are drops. Always give roadmaps so your judge can flow easier.

If I write on your ballot any weak spots in your case/argument, please know that I didn't take them into account when determining who won the round. Only points made be your opponent were factored in; those are just for you to know so you can improve your case.

Ronald Carnes

I would consider myself a traditional-style LD judge. Argumentation on Value, Criterion, I will judge hard on those. The team that shows me the strongest arguments will get my vote. I also look at the best speaker—the one that gives me good eye contact, tone, etc.

For other events, the best speaker will typically get my vote as long as they follow the criteria for said event.

I did speech and debate all four years of high school and when to state. Judged for local meets UIL speech and debate. As well as at the district level for LD, exempt and poetry.