The story: Iran's second presidential debate, held on June 8, was characterized by partisan and personal attacks as well as idealistic promises. Yet the seven candidates failed to offer concrete plans to address a wide range of public woes. While a third and final debate is set to be held on June 12, the candidates appear to have thus far failed in reversing public apathy towards the race.

The coverage: The second debate featured everything from naming and shaming, to joke-triggering slips of tongue and desperate appeals to women and minorities...