In the reverse order, we choose the moderators, and we use three criteria in that process: number one, someone who is intimately familiar with the candidates and their positions on the issues; number two, someone who has had extensive experience in live TV; and number three, someone who will understand that, for better or for worse, they are not on the ballot. They are there to facilitate, not to compete. The moderators alone choose and know the questions. The commission does not know. The candidates do not know.
On December 7th, 2017. See this statement in context.