Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have agreed to participate in a crucial televised debate, marking a significant moment in the 2024 U.S. presidential race. The event is scheduled for September 10, 2024, at 9 pm ET (2 am BST) at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
This debate holds particular importance as it represents the first direct confrontation between Harris and Trump since the former succeeded Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee. The National Constitution Center, which opened in 2003, provides a fitting backdrop for this pivotal political event in a key swing state.
ABC will host the debate, with David Muir and Linsey Davis serving as moderators. Muir, who became the anchor of ABC World News Tonight in 2014, is one of America's most prominent journalists. The debate will be broadcast live on ABC and streamed on various platforms, including ABC News Live, Hulu, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV.
The debate format will likely incorporate lessons learned from previous encounters, particularly the 2020 presidential debates. Notably, microphones will only be active for the candidate whose turn it is to speak, a measure introduced in 2020 to minimize interruptions. This approach represents a significant evolution since the first televised presidential debate between Kennedy and Nixon in 1960.
Key topics expected to be addressed include the economy, international conflicts, and domestic issues such as abortion rights. Harris is likely to emphasize her stance on women's reproductive rights, while Trump may focus on criticizing the current administration's policies on immigration and inflation.
Recent polling data from the Marquette University Law School, known for its accuracy in Midwest political forecasts, shows Harris with a six-point lead among likely voters. However, the landscape of U.S. presidential elections can be unpredictable, especially in swing states like Pennsylvania.
"I'm looking forward to it and hope he shows up."
The vice-presidential candidates are also preparing for their own debate. JD Vance, a U.S. Senator from Ohio elected in 2022, and Tim Walz, who has been Minnesota's governor since 2019, are set to face off on October 1, 2024, in a CBS-hosted event.
As the election approaches, these debates will play a crucial role in shaping public opinion. With the first female, African American, and Asian American vice president facing off against a former president, this debate is poised to be a historic event in American political discourse.