Upcoming Debate: Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump
In a dramatic turn of events, the 2024 presidential debate has shifted from a showdown between President Biden and Donald Trump to a face-off between Vice President Kamala Harris and the former president. The debate, originally planned as a Biden-Trump clash, will now feature Harris after Biden’s surprising decision to suspend his campaign in July.
Debate Details
•Date & Time: The debate is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 p.m. Eastern Time.
•Location: National Constitution Center, Philadelphia— a key battleground state with 19 electoral votes.
•Moderators: The debate will be moderated by David Muir of “World News Tonight” and Linsey Davis of ABC News Live “Prime.”
Debate Format & Rules
•Microphone Rules: Harris and Trump will each have their microphones live only when it is their turn to speak. This format was a point of contention, with Harris’ campaign expressing concerns about the potential for muted microphones disadvantaging the Vice President. However, they ultimately agreed to these rules to ensure the debate proceeded.
•Standing Positions: Trump won the coin toss, choosing to deliver the final closing statement. Harris will be positioned on the left side of the stage, as seen by viewers.
•Debate Structure: Each candidate will have two minutes for responses to questions, two minutes for rebuttals, and an additional minute for clarifications. Closing statements will also last two minutes each. No opening statements are allowed, and candidates cannot bring prewritten notes on stage. They will have a pen, notepad, and bottle of water at their lecterns. There will be no live audience and campaign staff cannot interact with candidates during breaks.
Viewing Options
•Cable: The debate will air on ABC and be simulcast on several other networks, including CBS.
•Streaming: Viewers can stream the debate on ABC News Live, Disney+, Hulu, CBS News 24/7, and CBSNews.com.
•Duration: The debate will last 90 minutes with two commercial breaks.
Upcoming Debates
•Vice Presidential Debate: The next scheduled debate will feature Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, hosted by CBS News on October 1 in New York City, moderated by Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan.
•Potential Rematch: Trump had proposed additional debates in September, but a final rematch date between Harris and Trump has not been confirmed. Harris has agreed to consider one more debate in October.
As the debate approaches, it promises to be a pivotal moment in the election season, providing crucial insights into the candidates’ positions and strategies.