In a highly anticipated rematch of the presidential election that is neck-and-neck, President Biden and former President Trump will go head-to-head in the first of two debates. The debate is set to take place at the CNN Presidential Debate in Atlanta, Georgia, a crucial battleground state.
Republican strategist Matt Gorman highlighted the significance of this debate, emphasizing that it has the potential to change the narrative of the election as both candidates aim to set themselves apart. The debate, scheduled for 9pm ET, will last 90 minutes with two commercial breaks.
The stage will only feature Biden and Trump, as third-party candidates failed to meet the qualifying criteria. The rules agreed upon by both candidates include no studio audience, muted microphones, no props or notes, and no opening statements, with a coin flip determining that Trump will have the final word.
Polls indicate a tight race between the two candidates, with Trump holding a slight lead in national and battleground state surveys. Longtime Republican consultant Brett O’Donnell advised Trump to replicate his disciplined performance from the second 2020 debate to have a successful night.
Biden, on the other hand, faces concerns about his age and performance, as well as criticism over his handling of various issues during his presidency. O’Donnell warned Biden against falling into the incumbent trap and advised him to defend his record over the past four years to make a compelling case for his reelection.
The debate holds the potential to sway undecided voters and solidify the narratives surrounding both candidates leading up to the next debate. It is crucial for both Biden and Trump to deliver strong performances and connect with voters on key issues to gain an edge in the race.
As the election season progresses, the debates will play a pivotal role in shaping public perception and influencing voter decisions. Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights from the campaign trail to stay informed about the candidates’ positions and performances.