National Speech and Debate Tournament

2025 — Des Moines, IA/US

Hannah Rodriguez Paradigm

Policy
Policy Debate Judge Philosophy

Your experience with Policy Debate (check all that apply)

Coach of a team
Policy debater in high school
Frequently judge Policy Debate

How many Policy rounds have you judged this year?

21-30

Which best describes your approach to judging Policy Debate?

Tabula rasa
 

RATE OF DELIVERY

8/91 = slow and deliberate
9 = very rapid
 

QUANTITY OF ARGUMENTS

8/91 = a few well-developed arguments
9 = the more arguments the better
 

COMMUNICATION AND ISSUES

7/91 = communication skills most important
9 = resolving substantive issues most important
 

TOPICALITY: I am willing to vote on topicality:

8/91 = often
9 = rarely
 

COUNTERPLANS

8/91 = acceptable
9 = unacceptable
 

GENERIC DISADVANTAGES

6/91 = acceptable
9 = unacceptable
 

CONDITIONAL NEGATIVE POSITIONS

8/91 = acceptable
9 = unacceptable
 

DEBATE THEORY ARGUMENTS

8/91 = acceptable
9 = unacceptable
 

CRITIQUE (KRITIK) ARGUMENTS

8/91 = acceptable
9 = unacceptable
Additional remarks:

Background:I approach debates with an emphasis on critical analysis, deconstruction of power structures, and engagement with alternative frameworks. My judging philosophy is centered around evaluating debates that delve into issues beyond the policy-oriented or traditional arguments. I appreciate debates that challenge mainstream ideologies, interrogate assumptions, and offer unique perspectives.

Deep Analysis: I value depth over breadth. I prefer in-depth analysis and thorough explanation of critical arguments rather than superficial coverage of multiple arguments.

Open-Mindedness: While I have a preference for critical arguments, I am open to all forms of debate. If traditional or policy-focused arguments are presented effectively, I will evaluate them accordingly.

Speed is fine just slow down a bit in the rebuttals. I say clear twice before I stop flowing. If you are SPREADING through tag lines I AM NOT LISTENING !

Note: if you wish for your pronouns to appear the debaters you judge on text/email blasts, log into Tabroom, click Profile at top, and add them in the Pronouns field.