The political stage is set for a dramatic showdown in Philadelphia as Kamala Harris and Donald Trump prepare to face each other in their first Presidential debate. This encounter, scheduled for tomorrow, carries immense weight as both candidates find themselves locked in a tight race, with polls showing them neck-and-neck for the past month.
The US Presidential debate, often seen as a mere gauge of public sentiment, now stands as a potential make-or-break moment for either candidate. A whirlwind of events has transpired since the Republican leader last debated against Joe Biden in July – a candidate change, an assassination attempt, and the selection of two vice presidential candidates. These developments have seemingly unsettled the Republican team, with Trump struggling to effectively attack Harris as she has experienced a rapid rise in popularity.
According to a recent national poll conducted by The New York Times and Siena College, the Republican maintains a slight lead over Harris by 1%, mirroring the results of a similar survey conducted in July following Joe Biden’s withdrawal. The candidates have taken vastly different approaches to this critical event. Harris has spent the past few days in seclusion at a Pittsburgh hotel, meticulously crafting concise two-minute answers. In contrast, Trump has seemingly opted out of any formal preparation, choosing instead to fill his days with campaign-related activities. Members of his campaign team assert that his unpredictable nature will give him a significant advantage during the debate.
What are the rules governing this high-stakes encounter? ABC News has established a clear set of guidelines for the debate, allotting each candidate two minutes to respond to questions. They will also be granted two minutes for rebuttals, followed by an additional minute for any necessary clarifications. Microphones will be active only when the designated candidate is speaking, a condition that Trump had explicitly endorsed.
The 90-minute debate will be held at the National Constitution Center, without an audience present. Trump has been given the privilege of selecting the podium placement and the order of final remarks after winning a coin toss. The debate will be moderated by David Muir, anchor of World News Tonight and managing editor, and Linsey Davis, anchor of ABC News Live Prime.
What topics are likely to dominate the discussion? The political landscape is ripe with issues ripe for debate, with the pandemic, the economy, racial justice, and healthcare expected to take center stage. The candidates will also likely address their positions on climate change, foreign policy, and immigration. The debate promises to be a captivating spectacle, offering viewers a glimpse into the candidates’ strategies, personalities, and vision for the future of the nation.
