This is Frank Gaffney with the Secure Freedom Minute.

Tonight’s presidential debate is shaping up to be as closely watched as the Superbowl. Let’s hope that’s not because the public expects it just to be another sporting event – say, a bigtime political cage-match.

The truth is we really need the American people to be getting seriously engaged in a decision that will shape the future of our country and likely most of our lives for years to come.

While there will doubtless be some entertaining moments, what’s required is an earnest conversation, one that actually exposes the differences between the two candidates and the resulting choice before us.

Of particular, and indeed, surpassing importance will be their competing views on the determinants of our national security: how to defeat the global jihad, stop illegal and dangerous immigration, deter our adversaries and protect our constitutional republic, its sovereignty and our freedoms.

This is Frank Gaffney.