When Donald Trump and Joe Biden take the stage on Thursday night, it won’t be a friendly reunion. In a historic first, a sitting president faces off against his predecessor, with palpable tension set to electrify the CNN debate stage in Atlanta.
Trump’s refusal to concede the 2020 election and his absence from Biden’s inauguration underscore the bitter rivalry between the two men. Now, as they vie for the presidency once more, millions of Americans are poised to tune in, marking a pivotal moment in the election cycle.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. This debate promises to be a notch above past encounters, with both candidates aiming to sway voters ahead of November.
Thursday’s event also marks the first time Biden and Trump have shared a stage since their fiery 2020 debates, known for heated exchanges and memorable moments like Biden’s exasperated “Will you shut up, man?”
Both candidates face the challenge of shaking off years of political rust, as the debate unfolds without a live audience—a precaution amid lingering COVID-19 concerns. Muted microphones during opponents’ speaking times aim to prevent chaos, contrasting with the unruly atmosphere of their previous debates.
Expectations run high on both sides. Republicans paint Biden as frail, while Democrats portray Trump as divisive. Yet, each has an opportunity to defy expectations, with Trump seeking to refute concerns about his temperament and Biden aiming to dispel doubts about his age.
Polls indicate Trump holds sway on economic and immigration issues, while Biden aims to defend his record on healthcare and environmental policies. The debate could hinge on who lands the most memorable lines while defending their vulnerabilities.
As the earliest presidential debate in modern US history, this event sets the tone for a marathon campaign. While unlikely to sway voters immediately, it shapes public perception and defines the issues at stake in November.
In the end, Thursday’s debate is more than a clash of personalities—it’s a critical juncture in the race for the White House, offering a preview of what’s to come as the campaign heats up.