Breaking Tradition with an Early Debate
Tonight, we are observing something unusual. Former President Donald Trump and President Biden are squaring off in a debate way earlier than usual. This is not your regular run-of-the-mill political show though. Since the establishment of the Commission on Presidential Debates in 1988, all presidential debates have been under its watch. This time around, it’s different.
Who’s Broadcasting?
Contrary to the tradition, the debate has CNN as its host. The network is airing the debate on cable and providing open access online to anyone interested. In a generous move, CNN has given the green light to any station interested in broadcasting the event. PBS for instance, is broadcasting it for those folks who prefer the old-school, cable-free, internet-free TV. One deviation from the usual is the absence of a live audience.
Adjustments for the Better?
In many aspects, these changes might just be for the best. Now that the general elections are underway, voters deserve a first-hand look at Trump and Biden engaging with each other. Moderators Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will hopefully keep the debate interesting with stimulating, tough questions.
Live studio audiences can be appealing. But when they express their support or disapproval, it doesn’t add much value. In fact, it’s a challenge to keep them quiet. For this reason, perhaps it’s best that they are left out this time.
Absence of Distractions
A further relief is that an attention-seeker named after Sen. Robert F. Kennedy won’t be there. The focus should, rightly, remain on the two major players – Trump and Biden.
High-Interest Levels
Polls reflect a major interest in the debate. This is a sign of a healthy democracy. As a news site, we may not be able to control viewer reactions, yet, it is our duty to share insights.
Trump’s Truth Problem
Expect Trump to cross boundaries with the truth. His history is evident – he has consistently distorted it. We hope Biden or the moderators can correct him, but if they don’t, remember to keep this in mind. Fact-checking what’s said in the debate will be the responsibility of the viewers.
The Mute Button’s Role
Candidates’ microphones can be muted if they intentionally flout the debate rules, but this isn’t to gag anyone spouting falsehoods. The power to discern fact from fiction belongs to the listeners.
What Might Trump Lie About?
Predicting everything Trump could fabricate is impossible. But we know there will be plenty.
Biden’s Need to Validate His Capacity
Biden, on the other hand, has a different challenge. He needs to dispel any notion that he is too aged and frail. His struggles with speech, stiffness, contrast with Trump’s charisma. Can he convince America that he’s up for the task?
Election Referendum
Biden must defend the last four years – both successes and failures. As the incumbent, the election is essentially a verdict on his leadership.
Accepting Election Results
In a previous debate with Hillary Clinton, Trump was asked whether he would accept the election result. Surprisingly, he declined to commit to this key American political tradition. When he won that year, he accepted the result. But in 2020, when he lost, he falsely claimed the process was rigged. If he doesn’t win this time, can we expect a similar outcry?
We’ll find out tonight during the 90-minute faceoff if there are any such eye-opening moments. Remember to listen attentively, and use your critical thinking skills to dissect every word.