Kamala Harris and Donald Trump face each other for the first time on Tuesday night in what could be their only debate. It provides a crucial opportunity for the two to present their differing views after a tumultuous campaign period. Americans will get a clear picture of how the race has changed since the last debate in June.
The debate comes after Biden’s decision to drop out of the race in July, endorsing Harris. Biden had to drop out after facing criticism from Democrats over his performance in the June debate. Harris now has a rare chance to prove herself as a steady hand for the future.
Harris-Trump Debate: Date, place, time
The debate will begin at 6:30 am IST (9 am ET) on September 11. The debate will be held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia.
Harris-Trump Debate: Who is moderating?
“World News Tonight” anchor David Muir and ABC News Live “Prime” anchor Linsey Davis will moderate the discussion.
Harris-Trump Debate: What are the rules?
According to the rules updated by ABC News, candidates are required to mute their microphones when they are not speaking. Only the moderator will ask questions. Final statements and stage location were determined by a coin flip, with Trump giving the final final statement and Harris choosing her stage location. The debate will not include opening statements and candidates will have two minutes for answers and rebuttals.
Harris-Trump Debate: Where to watch?
The debate will air on ABC News, airing on ABC News Live 24/7 and Fox News at 6:30 a.m. ET (9 a.m. ET). Disney+ and Hulu will also stream the debate. ABC will air a pre-debate special, “Race for the White House,” an hour earlier.
What to Expect from the Harris-Trump Debate
Harris aims to demonstrate her ability to argue the Democratic case more effectively than Biden. Meanwhile, Trump is trying to paint Harris as an out-of-touch liberal, influencing skeptical voters.
Trump, at 78, faces challenges adjusting to Harris, the first female Black and South Asian vice president. Her attacks often rely on racial and gender stereotypes, frustrating some allies who want her to focus on policy. Harris will explain her evolution toward more moderate positions aimed at defending Biden’s accomplishments.
Trump plans to hit Harris as too liberal
With the help of former Democratic congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, Trump may criticize Harris for past liberal policies during the 2020 campaign. However, Harris justified her changes to more pragmatic principles by saying her core values remained unchanged.
Trump will emphasize immigration and economic issues, portraying Harris as a continuation of Biden’s administration, which is still grappling with inflation.
Harris wants to argue Trump is unstable and unfit
Harris is expected to challenge Trump on women’s reproductive rights and warn of his threat to democracy, citing his efforts to sabotage the 2020 election and inciting the Capitol attack on January 6. She will also emphasize the importance of international alliances, especially with the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
