Solid numbers for Democratic debate on ABC

Fast National ratings for Wednesday, April 16, 2008

A primary debate between the two Democratic presidential contenders drew decent ratings for ABC Wednesday, but it was still no match for FOX and "American Idol."

FOX led the night with an 8.7 rating/14 share. CBS finished second at 6.9/11, followed by ABC at 6.3/10. NBC took fourth with a 4.5/7. The CW drew a 1.9/3.

The adults 18-49 demographic also swung FOX's way; it averaged a 5.4 rating among the viewers advertisers pay a premium to reach. CBS, 3.2, came in second, while ABC was third at 2.4. NBC managed only a 1.9, and The CW trailed with a 1.4.

ABC led at 8 p.m. as coverage of a debate between Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama drew a 7.3/12. "Deal or No Deal," 6.0/10, grabbed second for NBC. FOX came in third with "'Til Death," 3.9/7, and "Back to You," 4.5/7, edging "Big Brother: 'Til Death Do You Part" on CBS. "America's Next Top Model" earned a 2.5/4 for The CW.

"American Idol," 13.3/20, lifted FOX into the lead at 9 p.m. CBS moved up to second with "Criminal Minds," 8.2/13, while the Democratic debate on ABC fell slightly to 7.1/11. A repeat of "Law & Order: Criminal Intent" kept NBC in front of The CW and "Girlicious," 1.3/2.

At 10 p.m., "CSI: NY" scored an 8.6/14 for CBS. ABC's "Men in Trees," 4.4/7, finished second in households, but a "Law & Order" rerun (4.3/7) on NBC brought in a few more total viewers.

Ratings information is taken from fast national data, which includes live and same-day DVR viewing. All numbers are preliminary and subject to change.