The TV channel ABC has set the rules for the televised debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Even the drinks the two candidates can have are prescribed.
The winner of this duel could be the most powerful person in the world next year. Next Wednesday (CEST), Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will meet in a TV studio in Philadelphia – and the world will be watching the clash between the Democratic US presidential candidate and her Republican opponent.
US election duel with strict rules
Now the broadcaster ABC has finalized the rules for the showdown. Perhaps the most important: the microphone of the person who is not speaking at the moment should be muted. Harris had previously preferred that both microphones remain open the entire time. A first, small victory for the Trump camp, which had spoken out in favor of the version that is now in force. Harris, however, has accepted the rule – as have everyone else:
- The debate lasts 90 minutes and includes two commercial breaks.
- The moderators will be TV journalist David Muir and his colleague Linsey Davis. They will be the only people who will question the two contestants.
- A “virtual coin” has already been flipped to determine the placement of Harris and Trump on the podium and the order of the two-minute closing remarks. The Republican won and chose to deliver the final closing argument. Harris chose the right seat (from the audience’s perspective).
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- Both candidates will be introduced by the moderators – Harris first. They will enter the stage from opposite sides.
- There should be no opening statements.
- The candidates stand during the debate, the moderators sit.
- Harris and Trump are not allowed to bring prepared notes, but they can take notes during the debate. They will be given a pen and paper for this purpose.
- The politicians each receive a bottle of water.
- They are given two minutes to answer each question, then two minutes for counterarguments, and then another minute for further explanations.
- The candidates are not allowed to question each other.
- Harris and Trump are not allowed to speak to advisers during commercial breaks.
- The moderators should ensure that speaking time is distributed fairly and that a “civilized discussion” is maintained.
- There will be no audience in the studio.
Sources: news agency DPA
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
