US President Joe Biden, a Democrat, and his predecessor, Republican Donald Trump, are scheduled to participate in a pivotal presidential debate at 9 pm Eastern Time on Thursday, June 27, in Atlanta, Georgia. This debate marks the first in the lead-up to the presidential election on November 5. Hosted by CNN, the 90-minute debate will strictly enforce speaking limits, prohibit the use of notes, and take place without an audience to prevent any immediate reactions.
Both Biden, 81, and Trump will face scrutiny over their age and stamina. Biden aims to demonstrate his ability to handle another term, while Trump seeks to convince voters why he deserves to be re-elected after a four-year hiatus.
CNN's Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the structured and civilized discussion at their Atlanta studios. Microphones will be muted except during allotted speaking times. The debate format includes no opening statements, with candidates given two minutes to answer questions and one minute for rebuttals. Red lights will indicate when their time is nearly up.
Specific topics for the debate have not been disclosed by CNN but are expected to include border security, immigration, abortion rights, Trump's legal issues, the economy, and concerns about candidates' health.
Viewers can watch the debate on CNN, with other networks like CBS simulcasting it. Online streaming will be available on CNN.com and CBS News 24/7.
The next Biden-Trump debate is scheduled for September 10, hosted by ABC News. Additionally, a vice-presidential debate may occur on July 23 or August 13, with CBS News having extended an invitation to the Biden campaign.
