Biden and Trump Face Off in First 2024 Presidential Debate

ATLANTA—President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take the stage tonight at 9 p.m. ET for the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle. The debate, hosted by CNN and moderated by Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, will be held at CNN’s studios in Atlanta, Georgia. This event marks a significant moment in the campaign as both candidates seek to define their platforms and sway undecided voters.

The debate comes after both Biden and Trump declined to participate in events organized by the Commission on Presidential Debates, breaking a tradition that has been in place since 1987. Instead, they agreed to a more controlled format on CNN, featuring strict time limits and microphone cut-offs to ensure orderly exchanges.

Tonight’s debate is expected to cover a broad range of topics, including the economy, healthcare, and foreign policy. With no live audience present, the focus will be solely on the candidates’ responses and interactions, devoid of the usual crowd reactions that can influence perceptions.

Biden, aiming to build on his incumbency, is likely to highlight his administration’s achievements, such as economic recovery efforts and foreign policy successes. Conversely, Trump, who continues to assert his influence within the Republican Party despite legal challenges, will focus on critiquing Biden’s policies and presenting his vision for America’s future.

This debate is the first of two confirmed face-offs between the candidates. The second debate is scheduled for September 10, 2024, and will be hosted by ABC News. The unique circumstances and altered debate formats this year reflect the evolving nature of political campaigning in the modern era.

For viewers, the debate will be broadcast live on CNN and simulcast across major networks including ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, PBS, MSNBC, NewsNation, Newsmax, OAN, and Telemundo, ensuring wide accessibility.

As the nation tunes in, tonight’s debate promises to be a pivotal moment in the 2024 presidential race, offering a clear contrast between the two leading candidates vying for the highest office in the land.

Sources:

• Election Central
• Ballotpedia
• CableTV.com
• POLITICO