Former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to criticize Vice President Kamala Harris for allegedly opting out of a debate scheduled for September 4, hosted by Fox News. He referred to her as “Comrade Kamala Harris” and expressed little surprise at her decision, suggesting it stems from her difficulty in defending her inconsistent political positions.
In his post, Trump specifically pointed to Harris’s shifting stance on fracking and labeled her as President Biden’s “Border Czar” throughout his administration. However, Harris’s campaign has yet to confirm whether she will indeed skip the debate.
Background
Trump’s call for a debate with Harris follows his own wavering participation in a previously scheduled ABC News debate on September 10. After initially agreeing to the ABC debate, Trump later changed his mind but has now confirmed attendance at an NBC News debate on September 25.
A campaign official emphasized their willingness for further debates but made it clear that additional debates hinge on Trump showing up for the September 10 event, dismissing any tricks or games from his side.
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Current Developments
Instead of the debate, Trump plans to participate in a “Tele-Town Hall” with Fox News’ Sean Hannity in Pennsylvania on September 4. Meanwhile, Harris’s communications director revealed plans for her to participate in three debates, including an October matchup against Trump.
Additionally, Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is set to debate his Republican challenger, Ohio Senator JD Vance, on October 1, hosted by CBS News. Harris’s team maintains that voters deserve to see candidates discuss their visions for the country, dismissing any perceived gamesmanship from Trump and Vance.
Implications
Some analysts suggest that if Trump struggles during a debate on a favorable network like Fox, it could mark a significant boost for Harris’s campaign.
Looking Ahead
The Philadelphia debate on September 10 is set to begin at 9 p.m. EST, moderated by ABC News’ David Muir and Lindsey Davis. Details on the debate’s format, including audience participation, remain undisclosed.
Update 08/20/24, 12:45 a.m. ET: This story has been updated with additional context and details.