Trump accepts rules for debate with Harris set for September 10
Photo: US presidential candidate Donald Trump (Getty Images)
Former US President Donald Trump announced on his social media platform Truth Social that he has "reached an agreement" to participate in debates with Vice President Kamala Harris, according to CNN.
"The rules will be the same as the last CNN debate, which seemed to work out well for everyone," the Republican presidential candidate, stated on Tuesday, August 27.
A source familiar with the situation confirmed that the rules will largely reflect those used by CNN during the debates on June 27. This includes the practice of muting microphones while another candidate is speaking and the absence of an audience in the studio.
However, Trump mentioned that Harris's campaign is still negotiating with ABC about whether the microphones will remain on during the presidential debates scheduled for September.
CNN reported that Trump did not specifically mention the issue of muted microphones in his post but indicated that the rules would mirror those from his initial debates when the Democratic candidate was then-President Joe Biden.
According to a source familiar with the matter, Trump's team preferred that microphones be muted throughout the debates, except for the candidate currently speaking, similar to the format used in June.
CNN noted that CNN’s debate rules did not allow for an audience in the studio. Both candidates stood at a single podium, with the order determined by a coin toss. The 90-minute debates included two commercial breaks, during which campaign staff were not allowed to interact with the candidates. Props or pre-written notes were also prohibited, though candidates were provided with a pen, a notepad, and a water bottle.
CNN summarized that the debate rules are likely not yet fully finalized.
Additionally, the publication reported that, according to Trump, Harris declined to participate in a debate on Fox News scheduled for September 4, but Trump is keeping the date open in case she "changes her mind." Trump also hinted at a possible third debate on NBC News, which, he claimed, Harris has not accepted.
US elections
It is noted that after the debates with Biden, Trump somewhat increased his chances of winning and, according to polls, led in the race for the US presidency. A notable surge in voter support occurred following the attack.
However, with Biden withdrawing from the race and Harris emerging as the Democratic presidential candidate, the situation has changed significantly. According to Western media, citing polls, the candidates now have nearly equal chances.
RBC-Ukraine previously reported that Harris's campaign has raised $540 million since Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race.
