60 Minutes is a venerable television news magazine that like its New York comedy foil, SNL, has enjoyed highs and lows over the years. They have broken ground, and stumbled badly. But tonight (Sunday) they redemmed themselves with a full episode dedicated to the Democrative and Republican presidential candidates.

For the first time in many years the interviewers were tough on both men. The questions were pointed, the answers were serious, and the follow-through was excellent. There was context to both interviews, and parity. 

 I was particularly struck by the final series of questions for each candidate. While their specific phrasing differed slightly, the interviewers (Scott Pelley with Obama, Steve Kroft with Romney)  asked identical questions of the candidates. 

This was perhaps the most balanced and thorough coverage of two opposing candidates I have seen on television, anywhere. There were no pointless polls, no pontification on the part of the interviewer, and no attempts at muck-raking or name calling. Both interviews were respectful, specific, and well worth watching.

If we could get a bit more of this sort of coverage, I would go back to watching CBS News a bit more frequently. Excellent work, CBS. Outstanding programming, 60 Minutes. You gave me hope for a real campaign, with real decisions to be made by voters on substantive issues they actually heard the candidates speak about. 

I'm encouraged!