Trump vs Harris: Candidates to face off in highly anticipated ABC debate on September 10

New Delhi: First head-to-head debate between U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and Democratic opponent Kamala Harris is set to take place on September 10, 2024, on ABC. This face-off comes as polls indicate a close contest between the two candidates. Harris expressed her anticipation for the debate in a post on X, noting that Trump had "finally committed" to the event.

Trump wants more to debate

During a news conference at his Palm Beach, Florida residence, Trump announced his desire for additional debates on September 4 and September 25, to be aired on Fox and NBC. However, Harris’s campaign has firmly opposed a September 4 debate on Fox, citing the need for a host network that has previously sponsored bipartisan primary debates.

Harris’s reaction and poll position

Kamala Harris, who replaced President Joe Biden as the Democratic presidential candidate less than three weeks ago, said she is open to more debates, but only if Trump participates in the September 10 ABC debate. Harris currently leads Trump in recent polls, with an Ipsos survey showing her at 42% to Trump's 37%, a gain from the previous poll in July.

First debate since Waltz became Harris' as running mate

This debate marks Trump’s first public appearance since Harris named Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate. Harris and Walz have been actively campaigning in key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin, drawing large crowds and energizing Democratic supporters. The Harris campaign sees labor unions as crucial to their strategy, highlighted by their recent union hall visit.

Trump calls opponents 'weak candidates'

Trump's campaign has been forced to adjust its strategy in response to Harris’s rapid rise. Despite losing his lead, Trump insists his approach remains unchanged. During his lengthy Q&A session in Palm Beach, Trump criticized Harris and Walz as "weak candidates" and lamented not being able to run against Biden, whom he suggested was removed from the Democratic ticket due to internal party pressure.

Harris boosting Democratic campaign

Since Harris entered the race, the Democratic campaign has gained significant momentum, both in terms of polling and fundraising. Her candidacy has resonated with voters and donors alike, shifting the dynamics of the election. Harris's campaign continues to focus on reaching out to key voter groups and maintaining strong public engagement.

A crictical moment

The September 10 debate on ABC is expected to be a critical moment in the election, providing both candidates with a platform to present their visions and policies. As the race intensifies, both Trump and Harris are preparing to make their cases to the American public in what promises to be a pivotal encounter.