Staff Reports
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have agreed to participate in two upcoming debates outside the purview of the Commission on Presidential Debates. This marks a departure from how debates have been traditionally organized. Biden, issuing a challenge to Trump, asserted that he had won two debates against Trump in 2020 and dared him to face off again. Trump promptly accepted, stating he is willing to debate ‘anywhere, anytime, any place.’
The first debate will be hosted by CNN in Atlanta, Ga., without a live audience, and moderated by Jake Tapper and Dana Bash. The second debate is scheduled to be hosted by ABC News. Trump has been critical of the CPD in the past, and this decision to hold independent debates reflects a shift in the political landscape.\
Fresh Trump-Biden debates are on track, but in 2020 they went off the rails https://t.co/1JGjQeZfFq via @JustTheNews
— Norman Firebaugh (@FirebaughNorman) May 19, 2024
Looking back at the 2020 debates between Trump and Biden, there were notable moments that stood out. The first debate saw a chaotic exchange of insults and interruptions, with moderator Chris Wallace struggling to maintain order. The second debate, which was to be moderated by Steve Scully, was canceled after controversies surrounding Scully’s interactions on social media. Trump’s refusal to participate in a virtual format due to the pandemic also contributed to the cancellation.
The third debate, featuring muted microphones to prevent interruptions, was moderated by Kristen Welker and was considered less chaotic than the previous ones. Welker received praise for her handling of the event, with some media outlets dubbing her the “clear winner” of the debate. The upcoming debates between Trump and Biden are set to be significant, as the public eagerly awaits to see how these two political heavyweights will fare once again on the debate stage.
Editorial: The decision by Biden and Trump to engage in independent debates showcases a break from traditional norms and a refreshing willingness to engage directly with each other and the American people. This move away from the CPD’s control may lead to more candid and unfiltered exchanges, offering voters a deeper insight into the candidates’ positions and policies. It is crucial for democracy that candidates engage in open debates, allowing voters to make informed decisions about the future of our country.
