Google and Fox News Host GOP Debate

Perhaps it's an apology for the Google boycott started by the now-fired Fox personality Glenn Beck, or maybe Google's trying to show it can let bygones be bygones -- because now Fox News and Google are teaming up to host a Republican presidential debate on Sept. 22.

The debate will take place in Orlando, Fla., and be broadcast on Fox News and streamed live on YouTube, according to Fox News. "For access to news and information, it’s hard to imagine two more powerful brands than Fox News and Google, which is why we are proud to partner with a leader in global technology," Michael Clemente, Fox News senior vice president of news, gushed.

Google's part in the debate seems to be more about public outreach, because it posted the news both on its official blog and public sector blog. As part of the Fox News/Google YouTube site, it's asking the public to submit questions to candidates via YouTube. Viewers can "vote thumbs up or down on the questions using Google Moderator" and many of the top-voted will be put to the candidates.

"We're delighted to give voters across the country this opportunity to ask their questions of the GOP candidates. Through this joint debate with Fox News we hope to bring more voices into the arena to create an informed and lively dialogue about the future of our country," said Steve Grove, YouTube's head of news and politics.

So those readers who are angry at Google for participating with Fox News shouldn't be -- Google's just trying to keep the 24-hour cable news channel honest, right? 

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