Tonight’s presidential debate is a critical moment in the 2024 election. Find out what time it starts, how to watch, and what key issues to expect.
With Election Day rapidly approaching, the first presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is set to take place tonight. This highly anticipated event, moderated by ABC News, offers a crucial opportunity for both candidates to address undecided voters in what is predicted to be a tight race. This debate marks the first in-person encounter between the two contenders and allows them to articulate their stances on critical policy issues. Harris stepped in as the Democratic candidate after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race following a lackluster debate performance in June.
Everything You Need to Know About Tonight’s Debate
This section provides a detailed guide on how to watch the debate and what to expect.
What Time is the Debate?
The ABC News presidential debate is scheduled for 9 p.m. EDT / 6 p.m. PST tonight, Tuesday, September 10th.
How to Watch the Presidential Debate
The debate will be widely accessible across multiple platforms:
- Television: Tune in to your local ABC station.
- Live Streaming: Watch online via ABC News Live, Disney+, Hulu, or the ABC app on your smartphone or tablet. You can also stream on ABC.com and connected devices.
- Radio: Listen live on SiriusXM Channel 370.
- Live Blog: Follow ABC News Digital and 538 for real-time updates, analysis, and fact-checking throughout the debate. Link to live blog
Debate Location and Moderators
The debate will be held at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. “World News Tonight” anchor David Muir and ABC News Live “Prime” anchor Linsey Davis will moderate the debate.
Debate Rules and Format
To ensure a fair and productive discussion, a set of rules has been agreed upon by both candidates:
- Duration: 90 minutes with two commercial breaks.
- Format: Two-minute responses to questions, two-minute rebuttals, and one minute for follow-ups.
- Microphone Control: Candidates’ microphones will be muted when it’s not their turn to speak.
- No Audience: The debate will be held without a live audience.
- Closing Statements: Each candidate will have a two-minute closing statement, with Trump delivering his last.
Pre-Debate Coverage
A prime-time pre-debate special, “Race for the White House,” will air at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC and its streaming platforms.
Key Issues to Watch For
While the specific questions remain undisclosed, key issues likely to be addressed include the economy, healthcare, climate change, and foreign policy. The debate provides a platform for both candidates to clarify their positions and contrast their approaches to these critical challenges facing the nation.
For more in-depth coverage and analysis, visit the ABC News website. Link to related articles