Tue Sep 10 13:27:43 UTC 2024: ## Trump and Harris Face Off in First Debate: Muted Microphones and Strict Rules
The highly anticipated first showdown between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris will take place on Wednesday, September 6th at 6:30 AM IST. The 90-minute debate, hosted by ABC News at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, will be the second general election debate of the 2024 campaign season.
This encounter is unique in that it will feature muted microphones, a decision that the Harris campaign has criticized, claiming it disadvantages the Democratic candidate by preventing direct interaction with Trump. However, the Trump campaign has stated they accepted the same terms for this debate as the previous one hosted by CNN.
Despite the muted microphones, the debate promises intense moments with strict rules governing everything from podium placement to closing remarks. Candidates will have two minutes each to answer questions, two minutes for rebuttals, and one minute for further clarification. Opening statements and audience participation are prohibited.
The debate will be broadcast live on ABC News at 9 PM ET on Tuesday (6:30 AM IST on Wednesday) with two commercial breaks. Live streaming is also available on ABC News Live, Disney+, Hulu, and Fox News.
With just two months left before the 2024 US Presidential Election, this debate is sure to be a pivotal moment in the campaign, setting the stage for the final stretch before voters cast their ballots.