Tonight Swedish time, the main candidates are pitted against each other for the first time ahead of the fall presidential election in the United States. It could be a significant moment for both candidates, as between 30 and 70 million viewers are expected to tune in.
The candidates have not been replaced – but there are some other things that are new. This time, the first debate is held so early that neither Biden nor Trump has officially been named a candidate. There is no audience, the microphones are turned off when they do not have the floor, and they are also not allowed to take notes or speak to colleagues during the debate.
However, most of the election issues are recognizable and it is no secret that Biden and Trump prefer to focus on what benefits them the most. The advance tips say that Trump will push hard on migration policy and the economy. Biden is likely to put the powder on abortion rights and health care issues.
The election year marked by the candidates’ ages
The political issues are of course important, but what many Americans will follow this time is something else entirely.
The election year has already been characterized by a persistent debate about age and how appropriate it is for 81-year-old Biden or 78-year-old Trump to win the election. The concern among the voters has mainly concerned Joe Biden, who therefore has the most to gain by appearing sharp, alert, well-read – and avoiding all forms of fads. Should he succeed in that, it could possibly dampen the discussions about his age.
Stricter rules
The fact that this debate is held with stricter rules than before obviously has to do with the first debate during the campaign year 2020. Then, few people immediately afterwards remembered much other than the chaotic performance that was described as shameful afterwards. Trump interrupted constantly and the attacks rained down. Biden also interrupted Trump and called the opponent a “clown”. Trump questioned Biden’s intelligence and attacked his family. The moderator, veteran news anchor Chris Wallace, lost control and said afterward that he never dreamed it would turn out so badly.
Whether the rules applied this time help to avoid chaos remains to be seen.
The conditions for a fierce debate are there this time as well.