The US Elections season is heating as President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump prepare for their first debate of the 2024 cycle next week, a defining moment in this year’s campaign.
During the summer, Biden and Trump will formally become the official candidates for their respective parties in the 2024 election. However, their initial face-off will take place next week, signaling the start of a fiercely contested campaign where they will confront each other at least twice before the November 5th US Elections.
When and Where: The much-awaited debate begins at 9:00 PM EST (1:00 AM GMT) on Thursday, June 27. It will be live-streamed from Atlanta, Georgia, and can be watched on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español, CNN Max, and the CNN website.
What are the Rules: CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate a 90-minute debate with two commercial breaks. The candidates have already determined podium placement and closing statement order by flipping a coin. Biden chose tails, placing him on the right side of the screen, with Trump on the left. Trump will have the last word, following Biden’s closing statement.
Candidates will stand during the debate, confirming Biden didn’t ask for a seat. Staff can’t interact or provide breaks. Each gets a pen, pad, and water, but no props or notes. Microphones will be muted except when speaking, and there’s no studio audience to ensure civil discourse, per CNN.
Debate Preparations: Both candidates are gearing up for the debate with distinct strategies. Biden is strategizing with advisors at Camp David, emphasizing the election as a clear choice and maintaining a direct style against Trump. Meanwhile, Trump is engaging in informal policy talks, downplaying Biden’s expectations and highlighting perceived media bias.
In May, Biden issued a challenge to Trump for two debates, which Trump promptly accepted. Apart from the CNN debate happening next week, a second debate is set for September 10 on ABC News. Trump has advocated for more debates with live audiences, but Biden has not yet agreed to this suggestion.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an independent candidate, was unable to meet CNN’s criteria for participation in the debate, which included polling and ballot requirements. Kennedy alleges that CNN, along with the Biden and Trump campaigns, conspired to keep him out, labeling the decision as “undemocratic, un-American, and cowardly.”
