Commentary Shows Political Guests Watching Questions Host Commentator

In the United States, there are many different political commentary shows that use different types of "formats" (styles and ways of doing things) and "segments" (sections or parts).

Most political commentary shows have a commentator who "hosts" or "moderates" the show, introducing guests, asking them questions, and helping to guide the discussion. The guests might participate in a "one-on-one" (between only two people) interview with the host, or they might participate in a roundtable discussion. The guests often have very different opinions, so one of the host's responsibilities is to make sure that the discussions and debates don't become too "hostile" (angry).

Sometimes the people who are watching the show are invited to "call in" (use their phone to call the show) and ask questions "on air" (while the TV show is being recorded). The host and guests usually answer the question while the caller is still "on the line" (hasn't yet hung up the phone) so that he or she can ask a "follow-up question" (a second question about the first answer), if needed. Other viewers use e-mails to ask their questions and the host reads those questions to the guests.

Many shows have a "point/counterpoint" segment. One person is given a certain amount of time, perhaps 2-3 minutes, to present his or her "point" (opinion or argument). Then a person with an opposite position is given the same amount of time to present his or her "counterpoint" (opposite opinion or argument).

Often political commentary shows have long segments where the host or commentator simply provides his or her commentary on what is happening in the news, without interacting with any guests at all.

Most political commentary shows use a mixture of a few or all of these formats and segments.