First Biden-Trump Debate of 2024 Set to Be a Crucial Showdown
The first debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take place tonight in Atlanta, marking their first face-off since 2020. The event, hosted by CNN, will be broadcast live at 9 p.m. Eastern Time and will last for 90 minutes. Both candidates have been preparing rigorously, with Biden engaging in mock debates and Trump discussing policies with his advisers and attending campaign rallies.
Key Issues and Debate Format
The debate will cover a range of topics including inflation, immigration, and abortion, as well as personal issues such as health and judicial risks. To prevent the debate from devolving into chaos, microphones will be muted when it is not a candidate's turn to speak. Moderators Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will ensure a structured discussion by enforcing time limits and maintaining order.
Both campaigns have also engaged in aggressive advertising leading up to the debate. Biden's team has criticized Trump using statements from former Trump administration officials, while Trump's team has focused on Biden's age and cognitive abilities. With approval ratings extremely close, this debate could significantly influence the outcome of the presidential election.
The debate will be held without an audience to avoid disruptions, and candidates will not be allowed to use props or pre-prepared notes. They will, however, have access to a pen, notebook, and bottle of water. The debate will be available on multiple CNN platforms and other major American networks, ensuring broad accessibility.
- Tonight's debate is not only a critical moment for the candidates but also for the American electorate, who will get a chance to hear the candidates' plans and proposals for the future of the United States. The debate will be moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, who will focus on issues that matter to citizens.
- CNN en Español will provide comprehensive coverage, with correspondents stationed in Atlanta, Washington, and Miami to capture the atmosphere and reactions from both Democratic and Republican camps. This collaboration with Max Latinoamérica will allow Spanish-speaking audiences throughout the continent to access the debate.
- The debate's format includes no opening presentations, direct questions from moderators, and strict time management to ensure a civil discussion. The absence of a studio audience is a notable change from previous debates, aimed at maintaining a focused and uninterrupted dialogue between the candidates.