Joe Biden and Donald Trump have been exchanging insults for months, but they will finally face off in the first debate of the 2024 presidential election campaign. The two candidates, representing the Democratic and Republican parties, will meet in Atlanta, Georgia on Thursday evening, less than five months before the November 5th election. Polls indicate a close race between President Biden and former President Trump, with experts predicting that key swing states will play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
The debate will be moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, taking place at CNN’s studios in Atlanta at 9pm local time. The format will include 90 minutes of debate with two commercial breaks, and both candidates will stand behind podiums with muted microphones when it is not their turn to speak. There will be no audience in attendance to ensure maximum focus on the candidates.
While most voters have already made up their minds about who to support, the debate could sway a small group of undecided voters. Topics such as the economy, immigration, public safety, reproductive rights, foreign policy, and the state of US democracy are expected to dominate the discussion. Biden may challenge Trump on his legal troubles, including his recent conviction in a hush-money case.
The debate is happening earlier than usual in response to calls from both candidates to reach voters before early voting begins. The candidates will also participate in a second debate on September 10. Viewers can watch the debate on CNN channels and online, with other US television networks expected to carry the event as well.