The TV broadcaster ABC has set the rules for the television duel between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Even the drinks of the two candidates are prescribed.
The winner of this duel could be the most powerful person in the world next year. On the night of Tuesday to Wednesday (CEST), Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will meet in a TV studio in Philadelphia – and the world will watch the exchange of blows between the Democratic US presidential candidate and her Republican opponent.
US election duel with strict rules
Now broadcaster ABC has finalized the rules for the showdown. Perhaps the most important: The microphone of the person who is not speaking 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 variant that now applies. However, Harris accepted the rule – as did everyone else:
- The debate lasts 90 minutes and includes two commercial breaks.
- TV journalist David Muir and his colleague Linsey Davis will moderate. They will be the only people who will question the two opponents.
- A “virtual coin” has already been tossed to determine Harris and Trump’s placement on the podium and the order of the two-minute closing remarks. The Republican won and chose to make the final closing argument. Harris chose the right seat (from a spectator perspective).
- Both candidates are to be introduced by the moderators – Harris first. They should enter the stage from opposite sides.
- There should be no opening statements.
- During the debate, the candidates stand and the moderators sit.
- Harris and Trump are not allowed to bring pre-written notes, but are allowed to take notes during the duel. They also receive a pen and paper.
- The politicians each receive a bottle of water.
- They are given two minutes to answer each question, followed by two minutes for counterarguments and 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 pay attention to the fair distribution of speaking time and ensure a “civilized discussion”.
- There will be no audience in the studio.
You can read here which German television stations will broadcast the TV duel for the 2024 US election.
Sources: ABC, DPA news agency