I understand your view. I don't put much into debates now. They've become talking point shows where both sides are trying to get their zingers in for the 10PM news feed. I've not had my mind changed by a debate yet, all the way back to Reagan. Others may differ, and if they desire they can wait until they see the debate. Or the debates can be sped up. Our state debates were a month ago.
Early voting is not new in most states but you are correct. There will already be legislation, or the parties would have gone to court before the election to block it. Often you can tell there has been a change in the law because one group or another sues over the change before the election or right as its starting. (sorry I can't turn off the bold for some reason).