The first public confrontation in the ongoing election campaign is set to take place on Thursday night, featuring President Joe Biden and former president Donald Trump. In the days leading up to the debate, Trump has been launching harsh attacks against Biden, even suggesting that both candidates should undergo a drug test before the encounter.
Trump’s call for a drug test comes after a series of teases from his camp, responding to documents that show Biden appearing confused for a few seconds. The two candidates will face off on CNN for a 90-minute debate with two commercial breaks. However, unlike past debates, there will be no audience in the studio. Instead, moderators will use all available tools to enforce time limits and ensure a productive discussion.
During the debate, microphones will be muted except when it is a candidate’s turn to speak. No props or pre-written notes will be allowed on stage, with candidates only given a pen, pages and a bottle of water. Additionally, campaign staff are not allowed to interact with their candidate during the debate. Both candidates have agreed to stand on a uniform platform with podium positions determined by coin toss.
As tensions rise between the two former presidents ahead of their highly anticipated face-off, many are eagerly waiting to see how they will respond to each other’s attacks and if they can find common ground amidst their differences.
