Former President Trump engaged in a policy discussion with advisers and Senators Marco Rubio and Eric Schmitt at the Republican National Committee headquarters in Washington following his meetings with congressional lawmakers on Thursday. The discussion included topics such as democracy and how to address questions regarding the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack incited by Trump’s supporters. The meeting was reported by The New York Times.
Although Trump’s team denies that the meeting was for debate preparation, an adviser acknowledged that such discussions will be beneficial as Trump gears up to face off against President Biden in their first debate on June 27 in Atlanta. Senior Trump adviser Jason Miller emphasized Trump’s stamina and frequent tough interviews and rally speeches as preparation for the upcoming debate.
The upcoming debate between Biden and Trump in Atlanta is scheduled for less than two weeks from now and will set the tone for the final months of the 2024 campaign. The pair has also accepted an invitation for a second debate on September 10 with ABC.
CNN announced that the June 27 debate will be held in their Atlanta studios without an audience present, a departure from traditional presidential debates that typically include a live audience. CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the network’s debate.