Biden and Trump Set for First Presidential Debate On 27 June

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are gearing up for the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, setting the stage for a rematch of their 2020 contest.

This highly anticipated debate is scheduled to take place at CNN’s Atlanta studios at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday.

Debate Logistics and Format

This presidential debate marks a significant departure from previous presidential debates. Traditionally organized by the nonpartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, the event will instead be hosted directly by CNN.

The Biden campaign had previously expressed concerns about the commission’s handling of the 2020 debates, prompting this change.

Moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, the 90-minute presidential debate will occur without a live audience to ensure maximum speaking time for the candidates.

There will be two commercial breaks during which campaign staff will not interact with the candidates.

New Rules and Setting

One notable feature of this Presidential debate is the use of muted microphones, ensuring that only the candidate speaking has an active mic.

The format also excludes opening statements, allowing each candidate two minutes to respond to questions.

According to CNN, a coin toss determined key logistical details: Biden’s team chose his position on the stage, while Trump will deliver the closing argument.

Biden’s Debate Preparations

President Biden has been preparing intensively for the presidential debate.

Last week, he headed to Camp David for informal preparation sessions with advisors and top aides.

Ron Klain, former White House Chief of Staff and a long-time Biden ally, is leading the president’s preparation efforts.

Klain has a history of preparing Democratic candidates for debates, including Al Gore, Barack Obama, and Hillary Clinton.

Mock debates are also part of Biden’s preparation, with Bob Bauer, Biden’s personal attorney, reportedly playing the role of Trump.

Trump’s Debate Strategy

In contrast, former President Trump has taken a more informal approach to his debate preparation.

Trump has held private meetings with allies and continued his campaign trail activities, including a rally in Philadelphia over the weekend.

At the rally, Trump humorously pondered how to approach the presidential debate, suggesting he might either adopt a tough stance or take a more measured approach.

Significance of the Presidential Debate

This debate provides a critical platform for both candidates to present their visions for the future.

The Biden campaign views it as an opportunity to highlight the president’s achievements and plans for the next four years.

In a memo released by the campaign, it emphasized the contrast between Biden’s record and Trump’s.

For Trump, the debate is a chance to re-engage with the electorate and solidify his position as the Republican nominee.

Trump Vice President Speculation

Speculation around Trump’s choice for vice president has been a topic of interest.

While Trump has not yet announced his running mate, the debate may offer insights into his considerations and strategy for the upcoming election.

This topic remains a key point of curiosity as the 2024 election cycle progresses.

Candidate Qualifications

To qualify for the debate, candidates had to meet specific criteria set by CNN.

This included achieving at least 15% in four national polls of registered or likely voters and being listed on enough state ballots to secure the necessary 270 electoral votes for the presidency.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. did not meet these criteria by the deadline, confirming the one-on-one format of the debate.

President Biden and former President Trump have both secured enough delegates to become their parties’ presumptive nominees.

This early matchup precedes the Republican and Democratic nominating conventions, where party delegates will officially select their presidential candidates.

Also Read: Trump Set To Reveal His Vice Presidential Pick For 2024 Election: Who Are The Top Contenders