Lincoln Douglas

Lincoln-Douglas Debate

Lincoln-Douglas debate, often called “LD”, is a one-on-one style of debate that emphasizes values, philosophy, and clear argumentation. Unlike team debate formats, LD focuses on big questions of justice, morality, and individual rights, challenging students to think critically and defend their positions with both logic and evidence.

Each round centers on a value and criterion framework, teaching debaters to weigh ethical principles and apply them to real-world issues.

Perfect for students who enjoy fast-paced speaking, persuasive reasoning, and exploring ideas that shape society.

LD Sept/Oct Topic (Nov)

Sept-Oct Novice LD Topic-

National Service

This fall, novice debaters will explore the resolution:

“In the United States, national service ought to be mandatory.”

This topic asks whether every citizen should be required to serve their country—through the military, disaster response, or community programs. Debaters will weigh questions of civic duty, liberty, efficiency, and social unity, using both philosophy and real-world evidence to test whether mandatory service strengthens or undermines American democracy.

Sept/Oct Novice NSDA Brief -> Click Here

LD Case Outline-> Click Here

LD Extra Evidence -> Click Here

LD CrossX Bank -> Click Here

“Resolved: The United States ought to eliminate plea bargaining in criminal trials.”

sept-Oct LD JV Topic –

Plea Bargaining

Debaters will examine whether plea deals—where defendants agree to plead guilty in exchange for reduced charges or sentences—serve justice or undermine it. The topic raises key questions about fairness, efficiency, defendants’ rights, and the integrity of the legal system. Students will argue both sides: that plea bargaining protects resources and encourages cooperation, or that it pressures individuals into unfair outcomes and weakens the right to a trial by jury.

Sept-Oct NSDA Brief -> Click here

Sept-Oct Champion Brief -> Click here

LD Case Outline-> Click Here

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