What we know

The stage is set for a historic face-off between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris in a twist of political fate. Originally scheduled as a rematch between Trump and President Joe Biden, the debate took an unexpected turn when Biden suspended his campaign in July amidst increasing doubts from within his party.

With Biden out of the equation, the debate, scheduled for this Tuesday night, September 10, at 9 p.m. ET, will feature Trump and Harris in a showdown that promises to be anything but conventional. The event, hosted by ABC News at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center, marks a pivotal moment in the 2024 presidential race.

The Debate Dynamics: What’s New?

This debate is set against the backdrop of Pennsylvania, a key battleground state with 19 electoral votes. Recent polls suggest a tight race here, with Trump and Harris neck-and-neck. The debate’s location at the National Constitution Center underscores the significance of the state in this election cycle.

Moderators and Format:

The debate will be moderated by David Muir of “World News Tonight” and Linsey Davis from ABC News Live “Prime.” The format has been a point of contention, particularly concerning microphone rules. While Harris’ campaign initially opposed the rule of muted microphones for the opponent’s speaking time—a rule Trump’s campaign insisted upon—the two sides have reached a compromise.

Harris’ team expressed concern that the microphone rule could disadvantage her by limiting direct exchanges with Trump. However, they ultimately accepted the format to avoid jeopardizing the debate altogether. The final arrangement will have each candidate’s microphone live only during their speaking time, with moderators responsible for managing interruptions and significant crosstalk.

Debate Rules and Setup:

• Opening and Closing Statements: There will be no opening statements. Each candidate will have two minutes for closing statements.
• Speaking Time: Candidates will have two minutes to answer each question, followed by two minutes for rebuttals and an additional minute for follow-ups.
• On Stage: Candidates cannot bring prewritten notes but will have a pen, notepad, and water at their lecterns.
• Audience and Staff: No live audience will be present, and campaign staff will be barred from interacting with the candidates during commercial breaks.

What’s at Stake?

The debate is expected to cover a wide range of topics, though specific issues have not been pre-announced. The unpredictability of Trump’s debate style combined with Harris’ prosecutorial background could make for a dynamic exchange.

How to Watch:

The debate will be available on multiple platforms. It airs on ABC and is simulcast on various broadcast and cable networks, including CBS. Streaming options include ABC News Live, Disney+, Hulu, CBS News 24/7, CBSNews.com, and Paramount+. Pre-debate coverage on CBS News begins at 5 p.m. ET, with the debate itself concluding at 10:30 p.m. ET.

Looking Ahead:

Currently, there is one more scheduled debate between vice presidential nominees Tim Walz and JD Vance on October 1 in New York City, hosted by CBS News. There remains a possibility for an additional debate between Harris and Trump, though no date has been confirmed.

As both sides prepare for what promises to be a high-stakes exchange, all eyes will be on Philadelphia this Tuesday night. Will Harris’ strategy counter Trump’s fiery rhetoric, or will Trump’s unfiltered approach once again dominate the stage? Tune in to find out.

source: News Agencies