Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to have their first in-person encounter at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Both have been preparing for the high-stakes moment, with Harris using a stand-in for Trump and Trump replicating informal preparation methods from previous debates. Trump has enlisted Tulsi Gabbard, a former rival of Harris, for debate preparation, despite the change in the Democratic ticket.
In the lead-up to the debate, Trump has a light campaign schedule and is focusing on key issues such as inflation and immigration. Trump’s team is aiming to link Harris to some of Biden’s less popular areas in hopes of winning in November. Microphone rules for the debate are still being negotiated between the campaigns, with the Trump camp pushing for muted mics when the other candidate is speaking.
Harris has assembled a team of advisers to prepare for the debate, led by Rohini Kosoglu and Karen Dunn, among others. Mock debate sessions have been held, with Philippe Reines playing the role of Trump. Harris has received advice from both Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton, who have faced Trump in debates. Some caution against underestimating Trump in the debate due to his past successes against Biden and Clinton.
Trump’s preparation for the debate has been less structured, with few aides participating in briefings and policy review sessions. Trump’s team hopes to replicate the results of the first debate against Biden but acknowledges that Harris is a different debater. Sources indicate that Harris is aware of the approach Trump may take in the debate, given his history of aggressive debating style.
The upcoming debate will be a pivotal moment for both Harris and Trump, with high stakes for both candidates. Harris is focusing on staying on message and not getting roped into personal attacks from Trump. The goal is to communicate a clear message about Trump and use evidence to support it. Harris is dedicating time to preparation by scaling back travel and focusing on debate prep in the days leading up to the event.
The debate between Harris and Trump is highly anticipated, with both sides preparing diligently for the face-off. As the only time they will have interacted in person, the debate has the potential to impact the outcome of the election. Harris is focused on staying composed and on message, while Trump’s team is hoping to capitalize on his past debate success. The debate is expected to be a defining moment in the 2022 election cycle.
