📷 Image Credits: The Times of India
As President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump gear up to face off in a highly anticipated debate on June 27, a set of new rules has been introduced to ensure a more structured and civil exchange of ideas. The changes were implemented to prevent a repeat of the chaotic scenes and frequent interruptions that marked their previous debates. Under the new guidelines proposed by CNN, the debate will feature muted microphones to allow each candidate uninterrupted speaking time. Additionally, there will be no live audience present during the debate to minimize external disruptions, a departure from the traditional framework governed by the Commission on Presidential Debates.
Unlike past debates, the upcoming event will include two commercial breaks, a first in recent history. However, campaign staff will not be allowed to interact with the candidates during these intermissions, eliminating the opportunity for strategic consultations. Moreover, there will be no opening statements, with each candidate instead delivering a two-minute closing statement at the end of the debate.
The debate will kick off with a question, followed by candidates having two minutes to respond. This will be succeeded by one-minute rebuttals and responses to the rebuttals, along with additional time at the moderators’ discretion. Visual cues, such as flashing red lights, will indicate remaining speaking time to the candidates. Both Biden and Trump will stand at identical lecterns, with their positions determined by a coin toss. Microphones will be muted except when it is a candidate’s turn to speak to avoid interruptions that have disrupted previous debates.
Each candidate will have access to a pen, notepad, and a bottle of water on stage; however, no props or written notes will be permitted. The absence of a live studio audience is a departure from tradition, aiming to maintain a peaceful atmosphere during the debate. Both candidates have committed to participating in the televised event and have endorsed the new rules proposed by CNN, ensuring a structured and focused discussion. The moderators, Jake Tapper and Dana Bash, will enforce timing and ensure a civilized debate using all tools at their disposal.
With these new regulations in place, the upcoming debate between Biden and Trump is expected to be a well-organized and substantive exchange of ideas, providing viewers with a clearer insight into the candidates’ positions and policies.
