As President Joe Biden prepares to face off against Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential debate, his team is acutely aware that he cannot afford an underwhelming performance. The debate has the potential to be the most consequential presidential debate in recent decades, and Biden’s team is determined to ensure he comes out on top. Biden’s team expects Trump to launch aggressive attacks on his physical and mental strength, his record on the economy and immigration, and even his family. They are particularly aware that Trump will likely focus on Biden’s son Hunter, who was recently convicted on three felony charges related to the purchase of a gun while allegedly being addicted to drugs. Biden’s team has been reluctant to reveal details about his preparations, but they have signaled that he is preparing to be aggressive and will not shy away from using the term “convicted felon” to describe Trump.
The debate will be full of firsts, with the potential to reshape the presidential race. The two presumptive nominees have never met on the debate stage so early in the general election season, and never before have two White House contenders faced off at such advanced ages, with widespread questions about their readiness. Additionally, never before has a general election debate participant been saddled with a felony conviction. The ground rules for the debate are unusual, with no audience and each candidate’s microphone muted except when it’s their turn to speak. The candidates will be given only a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water, and there will be no opening statements. The debate will be a direct confrontation between the two candidates, with the goal of winning over moderate, independent, and swing voters in swing states.
Joe Biden (Via Joe Biden/Twitter)
Trump’s team sees the faceoff as an opportunity to demonstrate a clear contrast with Biden’s leadership ability and governing record. Trump, 78, will stay on the campaign trail before going to his Florida estate next week for two days of private meetings as part of his informal prep process. His aides have downplayed his preparations, but Trump is expected to rely on a series of conversations about policy and strategy with aides and political allies. The real key here is which Trump shows up – the “reasonable human being” or the bombastic one. If he can maintain a level of graciousness and respect for his opponent over the course of the debate, he may be able to pull off a decisive victory. If, on the other hand, he resorts to his usual bombastic tone, it may backfire and alienate the very voters he needs to win over.
For Biden, the debate presents an opportunity to show that he is still a viable candidate, despite his advanced age and recent controversies surrounding his family. He needs to demonstrate that he is still sharp and capable, and that he has a clear plan for the future. A strong performance in the debate could help to revive his sagging approval ratings and give him a much-needed boost in the polls. Biden’s team is aware that he cannot afford an underwhelming performance, and they are working to ensure that he comes out on top in the debate.
