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President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are preparing to face off in a highly anticipated presidential debate on Thursday night in Atlanta. This marks the first debate of the 2024 general election and sets the stage for an intense battle leading up to Election Day on November 5th.
Debate Details and Viewing Information
The debate, starting at 9 p.m. ET and lasting 90 minutes, will be moderated by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash. It will be held at CNN’s studios in Atlanta, and viewers can watch it live on CNN and the streaming platform Max. For those without cable access, CNN’s website will offer a livestream. NPR will also provide a live blog and carry CNN’s livestream as a public service.
Participants and Qualifications
Biden and Trump are the only candidates to have qualified for this debate. Independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. did not meet the necessary thresholds of polling at 15% or higher in four national surveys and appearing on enough state ballots to potentially secure 270 Electoral College votes.
Debate Format and New Rules
This debate deviates from traditional presidential debates in several ways:
- No Live Audience: Unlike past debates typically held at universities with live audiences, this one will occur in a closed studio.
- Microphone Muting: Candidates’ microphones will be muted unless they are speaking.
- No Prewritten Notes or Props: Each candidate will only have a pen, paper, and a bottle of water.
- Podium Positions and Closing Statements: Determined by a coin toss, Biden will stand at the podium to the viewers’ right, and Trump will deliver the final closing statement.
Key Topics and Points of Interest
- Legal Issues: Both candidates are expected to address recent legal challenges. Trump was recently found guilty of 34 criminal charges, and Biden’s son Hunter faces legal issues.
- Age and Fitness to Serve: Biden, at 81, will likely discuss his ability to serve a second term, while Trump, at 78, has questioned Biden’s mental fitness.
- Policy Issues: The economy and immigration are expected to be major topics, along with international politics, particularly U.S. military aid to Ukraine and Israel.
- Voter Base Support: Biden aims to regain support from key demographics such as Black, Latino, and young voters. Trump is focusing on older voters and reconciling with supporters of other GOP candidates.
Future Events and Next Steps
The next presidential debate will be hosted by ABC News on September 10th. Additionally, Trump is expected to announce his vice-presidential pick soon. Legal proceedings and national conventions for both parties are also upcoming, with the Republican National Convention starting on July 15 in Milwaukee and the Democratic National Convention on August 19 in Chicago.
Resources
NPR: Biden and Trump will debate on Thursday. Here’s what you need to know
Epoch Times: Biden and Trump Qualify for 1st Presidential Debate