The not-so-great debate I guess I wasn't the only West Wing addict watching last night's "live" (but scripted) debate between the fictional presidential candidates Matt Santos (played by Jimmy Smits) and Arnold Vinick (Alan Alda), moderated by Forrest Sawyer (played by Diane Sawyer). Ellen Degeneris hosted and shilled for American Express. But not even Ellen could pull this sleeper out of the doldrums. This episode of a decent TV show was as boring as a real presidential debate. Or even more boring, since nothing is at stake, except, perhaps, West Wing's ratings. Which is sad, because I thought this season held some promise. Now, I'm not so sure.