CNN has released additional details about the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, which will be held in Atlanta on June 27th, with Jake Tapper and Dana Bash as the moderators. Both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have accepted the network’s invitation and agreed to the rules and format outlined in letters sent to their campaigns in May. The 90-minute debate will include two commercial breaks, with rules in place to ensure a fair and organized discussion.
The debate will feature both candidates at uniform podiums whose positions will be determined by a coin flip. Microphones will be muted except for the candidate speaking, and no props or pre-written notes will be allowed on stage, though candidates will have a pen, paper, and water bottle. There will be no studio audience, and moderators will ensure timing and a civilized discussion. All agreed upon rules are meant to enforce a fair and equal platform for both candidates in the debate.
Candidates must meet specific qualifications to participate in the debate, including meeting the requirements outlined in Article II, Section 1 of the US Constitution. Candidates must also file a formal statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission and appear on a sufficient number of state ballots to reach the 270 electoral vote threshold to win the presidency. In addition, candidates must receive at least 15% in four separate national polls that meet CNN’s standards for reporting.
While Biden and Trump are likely to meet these requirements, it is less certain for other candidates such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Cornel West, and Jill Stein, who are running on non-major-party tickets. Kennedy has received at least 15% in three qualifying polls and is currently on the ballot in six states, making him currently eligible for 89 Electoral College votes. Meeting these qualifications is crucial for participation in the debate and for a chance at winning the presidency in the upcoming election.
The dynamics of the debate will be different from previous debates due to the absence of a studio audience and the strict enforcement of rules to ensure a fair and informative discussion. Both Biden and Trump have accepted the rules and format presented by CNN, and the moderators will use all tools available to them to enforce timing and maintain a civilized atmosphere. All candidates are expected to follow the guidelines set forth by CNN to ensure a productive and respectful debate that will inform voters about their choices in the upcoming election.
Overall, the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle promises to be a significant event with Biden and Trump facing off in a televised showdown. The strict rules and format set by CNN aim to provide an equal platform for all candidates participating in the debate, ensuring that voters have the opportunity to hear from each candidate and make informed decisions on Election Day. The moderators will play a crucial role in maintaining order and enforcing the rules to guarantee a productive and meaningful discussion between the candidates.
