There are complaints aplenty about U.S. politics, but the first debate between this year's presidential candidates was a reminder of what is right with the system. Rarely do voters anywhere have the opportunity to see their candidates square off and discuss issues in an intelligent and direct manner. Both men did their campaigns credit, and American voters are better off for it.

It is worth remembering that this debate almost did not happen. Texas Gov. George W. Bush wanted a different, more informal setting. Although Mr. Bush claimed Vice President Al Gore was reneging on his promise to debate "anytime, anywhere," the Bush proposal was viewed as a transparent attempt to steer clear of the direct confrontation that took place Tuesday night in Boston. Fortunately, the Bush campaign retreated from its position and the debates went ahead in their original format.

Mr. Bush was supposed to prefer an informal setting because that plays to his strength -- his ability to connect with ordinary people -- and avoided his weakness, namely a less than sturdy command of details. And while Mr. Gore spewed facts and figures during the 90-minute debate, Mr. Bush held his own.