Trump and Biden Prepare for High-Stakes Debate Amidst Mutual Insults
The election campaign for the US election is heating up as former President Donald Trump and current President Joe Biden gear up for a critical debate scheduled for June 27. Trump, who has been vocal in his attacks against Biden, has vowed to help the President avoid failure by intentionally losing the debate. He argues that Biden's poor health would necessitate being 'pumped full of drugs' to even participate. Trump has called for a drug test before the debate, claiming that liberal media unfairly favor Biden.
Comparing Debate Dynamics to Ali-Frazier Showdown
Analysts liken the upcoming face-off between Trump (78) and Biden (81) to a legendary boxing match between Muhammad Ali Clay and Joe Frazier. Biden's advisors plan rigorous preparations, while Trump's team claims minimal preparation is necessary due to his 'endurance.' Poll analyst Frank Luntz stated that the debate is the most significant since the historic 1960 TV debate between Nixon and Kennedy. The prior debates between Trump and Biden, which attracted millions of viewers, have only heightened their mutual hostility. Observers are keen, likened to 'car accidents,' to see how the two will trade blows. A recent poll shows 50% of voters expect Trump to win.
Debate Rules and Preparations
CNN, hosting the debate in Atlanta, Georgia, has announced unique rules to ensure a 'civilized discussion.' The candidates' microphones will be mutable, except during their speaking times, and no written notes will be allowed. However, they are permitted a pen, paper, and water. This first debate is set for 90 minutes with two commercial breaks, devoid of direct audience interaction. There will be a second debate on September 10, organized by ABC.
Age has been a focal point in the campaign discourse, with Biden frequently depicted as too old by critics, despite his doctor's affirmation of his fitness for a second term. Trump's mixed-up references to historical events and cities have not gone unnoticed. In a jab on Trump’s 78th birthday, Biden's camp issued a harsh statement to emphasize Trump's unfitness for presidency. This age issue harks back to earlier debates about presidential fitness, notably during Reagan's second term.
- The fierce rivalry between Biden and Trump continues their longstanding history of personal attacks. Trump has a record of derogatory remarks toward Biden, dubbing him 'Basement Biden' during the 2020 campaign due to his limited public appearances amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Trump’s history includes controversial statements and behaviors, such as mocking a physically disabled journalist and displaying questionable conduct during the Gaza conflict.
- Trump celebrated his 78th birthday recently, with his followers planning a grand event at Mar-a-Lago, his luxurious residence in Florida. The Trump camp retaliated against Biden's team's criticism by calling Biden 'weak and incompetent.' Yet, debates around presidential age and fitness are not unprecedented in the US political landscape, previously surfacing during Ronald Reagan's tenure. The age issue remains a strategic focal point for both camps as they aim to undermine each other's capabilities ahead of the election.
