President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have agreed to participate in two debates, with CNN hosting the first one on June 27 and ABC News hosting the second on Sept. 10. These debates come following a direct challenge from Biden to Trump and subsequent responses via social media.
CNN’s debate, scheduled for June 27 at 9 p.m. ET in Atlanta, will feature moderators Jake Tapper and Dana Bash and will be held without a studio audience. ABC News will host the second debate on Sept. 10, with plans to make it available for simulcast on additional broadcast and streaming news networks.
The decision to hold these debates outside the purview of the non-partisan Commission on Presidential Debates marks a departure from tradition. Biden’s campaign cited concerns over the timing, format, and past enforcement of rules in its decision not to participate in debates organized by the commission.
However, the Biden-Trump debates are not without controversy. The Biden campaign has proposed strict rules, including firm time limits for answers and the option to mute candidates’ microphones when they are not speaking. Trump’s campaign has also called for additional debates, though Biden’s team has only confirmed participation in the ones hosted by CNN and ABC News.
The exclusion of other candidates, such as independent candidate Robert Kennedy Jr., has sparked criticism. Kennedy expressed frustration over being blocked from participating, arguing that his exclusion limits discussion on critical issues.
The announcement of these debates comes amidst a tense political climate, with recent polls showing Biden trailing Trump in key battleground states. Both candidates have taken to social media to exchange jabs and promote their respective positions.
As the debates draw near, all eyes will be on the candidates as they face off once again, providing voters with crucial insights into their policies and visions for the future.
