It was not actually a debate. Not in the traditional sense. However, the arrangment suited Aldous just fine: he was a man who favoured preparation over working off the cuff (forewarned was forearmed, after all). Without full scale debate today, he would gain a better understanding of each candidate, their capabilities, and their weaker points, without coming under direct fire. At least, Aldous hoped that would be the way things rolled out—even in the most civilized company, one could never predict with complete accuracy how an evening would go.

He addressed each question lobbed his way carefully, taking a moment to pause and consider before responding.

"What is the most important change you hope to offer magical Britain?"

Stay the course. It had been instilled in Aldous from a young age that if one did not make waves, if one kept the trains running on time, all would be well. One did not need to make sweeping proclamations or dramatic changes to have a positive impact on others.

"Minister Ross," a nod at the wizard in question, though Aldous addressed the crowd directly, "and his predecessors have, by and large, done a sound job of keeping the gears of Magical Britain running smoothly." There was the time Spavin had lost the plot entirely, but that was no longer precisely recent. "Change is not necessarily to be lauded—at least, not the sort of change I think the voters would expect—empire and glory and a monument and all that. I think that the changes I am most wont to impliment are small, almost inconsequential, but resulting in improvements to our day to day lives. Security, the economy, and innovation have all occurred and improved for generations. The job of the Minister of Magic is not to reinvent the wheel, but to ensure it is in excellent repair."

"Mr. [Crouch]. What distinguishes you from other candidates who work in domestically-focused departments of the Ministry?"

He had, of course, expected this question, or something in that area. Aldous had maintained since announcing his candidacy, though, that his position gave him unique qualifications—and so answering it proved easy enough.

"I have been fortunate to represent this country internationally for nearly a decade, first as assistant head of my department and then, for seven years, as head of the Department of International Magical Co-Operation. Mine is a name recognized in the governments of other magical nations, and one that carries with it a reputation for honesty and competence." Competence oughtn't have been a selling point, but looking at some of the other candidates...

"Furthermore, this post has necessitated an awarenessand understanding of other departments as well, both here and abroad. I do not consider myself above any of my learned adverseries," a good-natured chuckle, scripted, but genuine enough, "but would consider this a different sort of advantage than they have been able to develop."

"Would you change or maintain the marriage ban between humans and non-humans?"

"Neither."

Aldous knew there were likely individuals who actually wanted to marry goblins or what have you in the audience, just as he knew there were those who staunchly opposed it. He was not about to alienate either camp, regardless of their side, and regardless of his own personal beliefs.

"It is a delicate matter of law and ethics, and no one individual should be the deciding voice in either direction. Should the Wizengamot as a collective deem it prudent to re-evaluate, I would hope that this evaluation is done with widespread and careful consideration of all factors involved."

Obfuscation could be a tool, if wielded correctly.

"Ministers typically appoint at least one member of the Wizengamot during their terms. If elected, who would you chose for Wizengamot, and why?"

"I do not believe," Aldous said easily, this question, though unexpected, proving an easy one to answer, "that this is a question any candidate should be answering this evening. I would be wary of any gentleman—or lady," he added, politely inclining his head towards poor, misguided Miss Whitledge, "who felt compelled to give a public answer, for fear their intended appointment was considered not based upon merit, but based on political advantage in this election. With that said," Aldous concluded, "Magical Britain is blessed with a number of citizens, both within and out of the Ministry of Magic, who possess unique experience and sound judgement. I have little doubt any candidate would have no trouble making a strong selection." If they cared about doing so, at least.