You can save in the middle of cutscenes, so I'd recommend doing the following:
1). Sometime before the debate begins, create the deck you intend on using.
2). Use the "save" feature to write to a new save slot while in the scene immediately before the debate (closer to the end, if possible). Remember the number of the slot, in case you need to reload.
3). Use the shift key to fast-forward through dialog you've already read.
4). If things are going poorly during the debate, press escape to bring up the forfeiture prompt. Re-adjust as necessary.
I'd also highly recommend bringing cards that specialize in criticizing Pathos, if you have any.
I hope that helps. You can do this! I believe!