Joe Biden and Donald Trump are set to clash in a crucial US presidential debate on Thursday, a pivotal moment in their tight race for the White House.
Millions of Americans will tune in to the much-anticipated debate, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a contentious summer of campaigning in a deeply divided country still reeling from the chaos of the 2020 election.
With only two debates scheduled this election cycle and national polls showing a neck-and-neck race, Thursday’s event at CNN headquarters in Atlanta — starting at 9:00 pm (0100 GMT Friday) — carries significant weight.
For many voters, the choice between the 81-year-old Biden, the oldest ever incumbent, and the 78-year-old Trump, now a convicted felon, is less than inspiring. Both candidates need to address this sentiment head-on.
Trump, known for his aggressive debate style, faces the challenge of controlling his combative tendencies, which backfired in their first chaotic debate four years ago. Meanwhile, Biden will strive to avoid any major blunders that could amplify concerns about his age. He will emphasize his key campaign message that Trump poses an existential threat to US democracy.
Biden arrived in Georgia about six hours before the debate and took the opportunity to greet supporters outside his hotel in Atlanta. Trump landed later aboard his private jet, acknowledging supporters on the tarmac before heading to his vehicle.
The animosity between the two candidates is palpable, and both sides have agreed to a series of debate rules to minimize the likelihood of a shouting match. There will be no studio audience, and microphones will cut off when a candidate’s speaking time is over.
Both campaigns have launched new attack ads to coincide with the debate. Trump’s team released TV spots accusing Biden of economic mismanagement and encouraging illegal immigration. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed that Biden is the real threat to democracy, “and a threat to the survival and existence of our country itself.”
The Democratic Party, on the other hand, funded five massive billboards in Atlanta mocking Trump for his legal troubles. “Donald, welcome to Atlanta for the first time since becoming a convicted felon. Congrats – or whatever…” the signs read.
