In a historic showdown, President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are gearing up for CNN’s June 27 presidential debate. This will mark the first time a sitting president and a former president will go head-to-head in a debate. It is also the first debate since 2020 featuring either Biden or Trump, as they both faced different circumstances during the last election cycle.
This debate is shaping up to be a defining moment in the presidential race, which started earlier than usual and involves two well-known candidates. One key difference from the previous debates between Biden and Trump is that the June 27 clash will not have a studio audience.
The qualification window for the debate closed recently, with both Biden and Trump meeting the constitutional, ballot qualification, and polling thresholds set by CNN. The 90-minute debate will be hosted by CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash in Atlanta. Both candidates have agreed to the rules and format outlined by the network.
To participate in the debate, candidates had to meet the requirements laid out in the US Constitution and file a formal statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission. Additionally, they had to appear on enough state ballots to reach the 270 electoral vote threshold and receive at least 15% in four separate national polls from reputable sources.
Biden and Trump were the only candidates to meet these stringent requirements. The debate will include two commercial breaks, and campaign staff are not allowed to interact with their candidate during that time. Both candidates will stand at a uniform podium, with their positions 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. However, candidates will be provided with a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water during the debate.
