USA correspondent Danielle Kurtzleben

Danielle says candidates are shunning debates this year: It was once a given that candidates, especially those seeking statewide office in a midterm election year - would face off with their main opponent for three or more one-on-one debates, so voters could see them side by side and hear them answer questions and explain their positions on the issues. But she says many candidates are skipping the debate ritual all together. In Nevada and Missouri, it appears likely there will be no debates between major party Senate nominees. And the House GOP has unveiled a roadmap for if they win in November: The "Commitment to America" includes four broad pillars focusing on the economy, safety, individual freedom and government accountability. Danielle Kurtzleben is a political correspondent assigned to NPR's Washington Desk