Vice President Kamala Harris has agreed to the rules set for the upcoming debate with former President Donald Trump, despite concerns that the decision to mute microphones during the event may put her at a disadvantage. The debate, scheduled for September 10 at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, almost faced a potential derailment over the issue of microphone muting.
President Joe Biden's campaign had initially pushed for muted microphones as a condition for accepting any debates this year, in response to Trump's behavior during the June debate. However, Harris' campaign had advocated for live microphones throughout the debate to allow for more substantive exchanges between the candidates.
In a letter to ABC News obtained by The Associated Press, Harris' advisors expressed concerns that the muted microphone format would shield Trump from direct exchanges with the Vice President, potentially putting her at a disadvantage. Despite these concerns, Harris' campaign ultimately accepted the full set of rules proposed by ABC, including muted microphones, in order to avoid jeopardizing the debate.
The debate rules also include parameters such as a 90-minute duration with two commercial breaks, moderators David Muir and Linsey Davis being the only ones allowed to ask questions, and a warning system for candidates who repeatedly interrupt. The network has also outlined plans for handling crosstalk and ensuring a civilized discussion between the candidates.
With no audience present and no topics or questions shared in advance, both Harris and Trump will have to rely on their own knowledge and debate skills during the event. After a virtual coin flip, Trump has chosen to offer the final closing statement, while Harris will stand at the podium on the right side of viewers' screens.
Overall, the upcoming debate between Harris and Trump appears to be proceeding according to the agreed-upon rules, with both campaigns preparing for a structured and controlled exchange of ideas.