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Kamala Demands Trump Debate

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Kamala might want to rethink this decision.

In recent days, former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have been engaged in a public back-and-forth concerning the possibility of a general election debate. Harris has been particularly aggressive in pressing Trump to agree to a one-on-one debate, while Trump has been less decisive in his response.

Initially, Trump expressed a willingness to debate Harris, stating he would “absolutely” consider it. However, he later signaled uncertainty, with his campaign indicating they wouldn’t commit until Harris is officially confirmed as the Democratic nominee. Trump’s reluctance to firmly agree has allowed Harris’s campaign to paint him as hesitant or afraid to face her on stage.

Political analysts believe a debate is likely, though the specifics—such as timing and format—are still under negotiation. Syracuse University’s Grant Reeher notes the debate is crucial for both candidates. “Trump needs to avoid the appearance of dodging a debate, while Harris must demonstrate her readiness to confront him directly,” Reeher observed.

The Trump and Biden campaigns had initially set up a debate for September 10, hosted by ABC News. However, Trump has suggested that the change in the Democratic candidate might warrant alterations to the debate’s hosting or format. He has expressed dissatisfaction with ABC News and proposed that Fox News could be a more suitable venue.

Trump has voiced his frustration, suggesting the debate would only serve to enrich what he calls “fake news” networks. “I can make a case for not doing it,” Trump told Fox News, reflecting his displeasure with the current debate plans.

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Despite skipping GOP primary debates due to his strong poll numbers, Trump’s potential avoidance of a debate with Harris has drawn skepticism. Harris, addressing a rally in Atlanta, challenged Trump directly, urging him to confront her on stage if he has issues to address.

The Harris campaign has stated she will participate in the September debate regardless of Trump’s decision. If Trump opts out, ABC would need to decide whether to proceed with a town hall format featuring Harris or cancel the event altogether.

Democrats are already framing Trump’s hesitance as a strategic victory for Harris. Communications expert Adam Abrams argues that Trump’s indecision reflects poorly on him, suggesting, “Trump can’t project strength while avoiding a debate—there are political costs to this approach.”

Trump’s potential debate with Harris presents a distinct challenge, given her background as a former prosecutor and her reputation for incisive questioning. While Trump might focus on issues like immigration and border security, Harris could counter by highlighting Trump’s failures on these fronts.

With past debates sometimes reflecting poorly on Trump, his strategy remains unpredictable. “Trump’s next move could be dramatic and unexpected, especially if he’s looking to shift the race’s momentum,” noted Democratic strategist Jamal Simmons.

Ultimately, the debate between Trump and Harris is anticipated to be a defining moment, with both sides preparing for a high-stakes clash that could influence the election’s trajectory.