The political landscape took an unexpected turn when former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris emerged as the debaters for this crucial election cycle. Initially, a rematch between President Biden and Donald Trump was anticipated, but a surprising announcement in July changed the course. President Biden, facing internal party doubts after a perceived lackluster debate performance against Trump in June, declared the end of his campaign on July 21. This paved the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to step into the spotlight as the Democratic nominee.
Now, the highly anticipated debate, scheduled for Tuesday night and hosted by ABC News at Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center, is set to be a pivotal face-off between Harris and Trump. Both candidates agreed to proceed after weeks of discussions about the debate’s specifics, making it a significant event in the lead-up to the election.
So, if you’re wondering, “What Time Is The Debate Tonight Est?”, and want to know more about this significant political event, here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you don’t miss a moment.
Debate Time and Date: Mark Your Calendars for 9 PM EST, Tuesday, Sept 10
For those eager to tune in, the debate is scheduled to commence promptly at 9:00 PM Eastern Time on Tuesday, September 10th. Make sure to set your reminders so you don’t miss the start of this important political event.
Who, What, Where, and How: Key Details of the Debate
To fully prepare for tonight’s debate, let’s delve into the essential details: the participants, moderators, location, rules, and topics.
Who are the Candidates? Trump vs. Harris
This debate marks the first head-to-head encounter between former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris. This matchup became possible after President Biden’s withdrawal from the race in July, which solidified Harris’s position as the Democratic nominee. The shift from a Biden-Trump rematch to a Trump-Harris showdown injects a new dynamic into the 2024 election debates.
Who are the Moderators? David Muir and Linsey Davis
ABC News has selected experienced anchors to moderate this high-stakes debate. David Muir, the anchor of “World News Tonight,” and Linsey Davis, anchor of ABC News Live “Prime,” will guide the discussion, posing questions and ensuring fair engagement between the candidates. Their roles as moderators are crucial in maintaining order and focus throughout the 90-minute event.
Where is the Debate? Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center
The debate will take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Choosing Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as the venue is strategically significant as Pennsylvania is recognized as a crucial battleground state. Recent CBS News estimates indicate a tie between Harris and Trump in Pennsylvania, which holds 19 electoral votes, highlighting the state’s importance in the upcoming election. The location itself, the National Constitution Center, adds a layer of historical and civic significance to the event.
What are the Debate Rules? Muted Microphones and More
The debate rules have been a point of negotiation, particularly concerning the microphones. Initially, the Harris campaign advocated for open microphones throughout the debate, while the Trump team preferred muted microphones when a candidate is not speaking—a rule the Biden campaign had previously requested. Ultimately, the muted microphone rule was adopted.
According to ABC News, microphones will be live only for the candidate who has the floor and muted otherwise. While candidates cannot directly question each other, measures are in place to handle potential crosstalk. Moderators will warn candidates who interrupt excessively, and in cases of significant crosstalk, microphones may be temporarily unmuted. Reporters present in the room will also monitor and report any noteworthy exchanges missed by the microphones.
Other key rules include:
- No opening statements: The debate will jump straight into questions.
- Two-minute closing statements: Each candidate gets two minutes for a final message, with Trump choosing to deliver the last closing statement after winning a coin toss.
- Two minutes to answer questions: Candidates have two minutes to respond to moderator questions.
- Two minutes for rebuttals: Candidates get two minutes to rebut their opponent’s points.
- One minute for follow-ups: An additional minute is allowed for clarifications or follow-up remarks.
- No pre-written notes: Candidates are restricted from bringing pre-prepared notes but can have a pen, notepad, and water.
- No audience and no staff interaction during breaks: To maintain focus and minimize distractions, there will be no live audience, and campaign staff cannot interact with candidates during commercial breaks.
What Topics Will Be Discussed? Any Topic is Fair Game
The debate format is designed to cover a wide range of issues. Any topic is on the table, as ABC News has not pre-announced specific subjects and is not expected to do so. This open format ensures that candidates must be prepared to discuss any matter of national or international importance that moderators may raise.
How to Watch the Debate: TV Channels and Streaming Options
Ensuring wide accessibility, ABC has authorized other networks to simulcast the debate. You can watch it on various broadcast and cable channels, including ABC and CBS. Check your local listings for specific channel information in your area. CBS News’s primetime coverage will begin at 8:00 PM ET, an hour before the debate starts, to provide viewers with pre-debate analysis and context.
For viewers preferring to stream online, multiple platforms will carry the debate live. These include:
- ABC News Live: Accessible through the ABC News website and app.
- Disney+: Streaming on the Disney+ platform.
- Hulu: Available for streaming on Hulu.
- CBS News 24/7: Streaming on CBS News’s dedicated 24/7 news channel.
- CBSNews.com: Watch directly on the CBS News website.
- Paramount+: Streaming for Paramount+ subscribers.
CBS News 24/7 will offer extensive coverage, starting with pre-debate programming at 5:00 PM ET and continuing with post-debate analysis until 11:35 PM ET, providing comprehensive coverage for those who want a deeper dive into the event.
Debate Length and Schedule: 90 Minutes of Discussion
The debate is scheduled to last for 90 minutes, concluding at 10:30 PM ET. There will be two commercial breaks within this timeframe. This concise format demands that candidates make their points efficiently and effectively within the allotted time.
What’s Next? Future Debates and the Road to the Election
While this debate is highly anticipated, it is not the only one scheduled. Currently, there is one more debate planned between vice presidential nominees: Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance. This vice presidential debate is set for October 1st in New York City and will be hosted by CBS News, moderated by Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan.
Additionally, there is potential for another debate between Harris and Trump. While Trump proposed additional debates in September, Harris’s campaign has indicated willingness for one more meeting in October. However, a date for this potential rematch is yet to be finalized.
In conclusion, the Trump-Harris debate tonight, September 10th at 9 PM EST, is a crucial event in the 2024 election cycle. With key details set, including moderators, location in battleground Pennsylvania, and debate rules, all eyes will be on this significant political showdown. Make sure to tune in and stay informed as the candidates present their platforms and visions for the future.
