I think Bill Gates would be a moderator whose invitation both likely candidates would find it difficult to turn down.

Sorry, it just occurred to me that a triangle defense against the offense of the political establishment would be a good thing. I saw those three names mentioned together in previous posts, and it just hit me: have a trio of moderators to get a more nuanced questioning of the candidates.

I'd like to see separate lists for "suggested moderator" and for "characteristics the moderator should have." Among the latter: non-fringe views on science, and hesitancy to express contrarian opinions on issues in areas outside one's expertise.

Very interested in science, clued into policy, and high levels of trust in American public.

An outstanding science reporter for The New York Times.

As a life size cardboard cutout, or at least a lapel pin worn by the interviewers, no matter who ends up doing it.

Articulate and passionate about science and society.

He's charming, intelligent, has been debunking anti-science BS for years.

The interviewer should be familiar with biology, since those are the scientific issues that will dominate the next 4 years (and many years beyond). The budget for NIH alone makes such an exploration essential. Collins is one of those rare individuals who happily sees science and religion coexisting. He can help lay to rest the tired myth that science is at war with religion, which seems pretty important since many citizens increasingly equate science with atheism..

He understands science & is a (relatively) unbiased reporter. No atheists or liberals who will force the candidates to be anti-science just to please the religious voters.

She has the experience of dealing with politicians, and is definitely a closet geek.

He is a medical doctor, widely conversant in many aspects of science and technology. He is camera savvy and well known.

Being neutral - as he is a well-known and respected Canadian scientist who has a wonderful knack for dialogue and charisma. He is now deeply involved in policy issues - especially surrounding sustainablity. He established the David Suzuki Foundation (http://www.davidsuzuki.org/david/) and is the host of the Nature of Things on CBC (Canadian Broad Casting) station.

His books like 'Corrupted Science' and 'Denying Science' show he doesn't put up with B.S. from politicians.

Broad is a great science reporter for The New York Times. Prior to joining the Times, he worked as a reporter for Science, the magazine of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.