Spin room

The name refers to the fact that the participants will attempt to "spin" or influence the perception of the debate among the assembled reporters.

The benefit for reporters is that they quickly get in-person interviews with debaters or their representatives, complete with audio, video, and photos.

[3][11][12] Defenders have said reporters know it's scripted and aren't persuaded by the spin, but rather, they use the talking points to analyze candidates' strategies.

[14] Spin rooms have also been portrayed as outdated in an era of instant online reaction from all quarters before a debate is even over.

[4][15] Focus groups and instant post-debate "snap polls" attempt to provide a more scientific method than spin rooms in determining who has won a debate.