Muted Mics and Coin Flips: New Rules for Biden-Trump Debate

The first presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump is set to take place on June 27 in Atlanta. CNN has announced a series of new rules that have been agreed upon by both campaigns to ensure a more structured and less disruptive event.

Debate Details and Structure

The debate will be moderated by CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash. It will last approximately 90 minutes and include two commercial breaks. A significant change from previous debates is the absence of a live studio audience, a condition set by the Biden campaign to limit disruptions.

New Debate Rules

One of the most notable changes is the implementation of microphone muting. Each candidate’s microphone will be muted unless it is their turn to speak. This measure is expected to reduce interruptions and allow each candidate to present their points more clearly.

Coin Flip for Podium Positions

To determine the podium positions, a coin flip will be conducted. This simple yet traditional method adds a layer of fairness to the debate setup. Both Biden and Trump will stand at podiums based on the outcome of this coin flip.

Restrictions and Allowances

CNN has stated that neither candidate will be allowed to use any props or pre-written notes during the debate. However, they will be provided with paper, a pen, and water.

This rule aims to ensure that the candidates rely on their knowledge and quick thinking during the debate.

Timing and Campaign Background

This debate is the first of two agreed upon by the Biden and Trump campaigns. The second debate will be hosted by ABC News on September 10.

These debates were scheduled shortly after President Biden publicly challenged Trump to participate in two debates.

The Biden campaign insisted on several conditions for the debates. They specified that the debates should be conducted by news organizations rather than the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates and that there should be no in-person audience.

These conditions were likely set to create a more controlled environment.

Early Timing of the Debate

This month’s debate is notably the earliest ever in a presidential race, taking place before the Republican and Democratic conventions later this summer. During these conventions, both Trump and Biden are expected to officially accept their party’s nominations.

Campaign Strategies and Statements

As the debate approaches, both campaigns are actively engaging with the public. On Monday, the Biden campaign launched a new ad as part of a $50 million media campaign in battleground states.

According to the source, this media buy includes an advertisement highlighting Trump’s historic conviction in his hush money trial.

Michael Tyler, the Biden-Harris 2024 Communications Director, stated, “Trump approaches the first debate as a convicted felon who continues to prove that he will do anything and harm anyone if it means more power and vengeance for Donald Trump.”

In response, the Trump campaign pushed back against the ad, claiming that his New York trial was a “sham.”

Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt added, “The contrast between President Trump’s strength and success versus Crooked Joe Biden’s weakness, failures, and dishonesty will be made clear on the debate stage next week.”

Looking Ahead

As the first debate draws near, both campaigns are gearing up to make their case to the American public. The new rules and format changes are designed to ensure a more orderly and focused debate.

With the absence of a live audience and the introduction of microphone muting, viewers can expect a different dynamic than in previous debates.

This historic event will set the stage for the 2024 presidential race, giving voters a clear view of each candidate’s vision for the future of the United States. The Biden and Trump campaigns are preparing to use this platform to highlight their strengths and address their opponent’s weaknesses.

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