PHILADELPHIA (NewsNation) — As Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump prepare to face each other on a debate stage in Philadelphia, they have also agreed to a set of rules for the contest.
The 90-minute debate is the first between the two following President Joe Biden’s exiting the 2024 race after a dismal performance in his first and only debate of the cycle. His performance caused panic within the Democratic Party about his ability to beat Trump in November.
You can watch the ABC News Presidential Debate live on NewsNation. Find your channel at joinnn.com and download our app for fact-biased, unbiased news for all America.
NewsNation’s coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET with a special edition of “On Balance with Leland Vittert” live from Philadelphia. Chris Cuomo gets you ready for the debate at 8 p.m. before the ABC News Presidential Debate Simulcast begins at 9 p.m. When it’s over, Cuomo will break down what we saw and what will happen next.
Here’s what to expect:
No live audience at the debate
While past debates usually included a live studio audience, that won’t be the case this time. While Trump thrives on performing for a crowd, the move was made to limit interruptions.
Audiences have, in the past, broken from tradition and clapped or cheered for their candidate and booed opponents during debates. To avoid disrupting the event or throwing off the times allotted for questions and responses, the candidates will have to get through this debate without their supporters present.
Muted microphones for Trump and Harris
In 2020, Trump repeatedly interrupted Biden during his speaking time, something he also did to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during the 2016 contest. Although moderators tried to get debates back on track following outbursts, they weren’t always successful.
This time, Harris and Trump have agreed to have their microphones muted when it isn’t their turn to speak.
Who is asking the questions?
The two seated ABC moderators, David Muir and Linsey Davis, will be the only people asking questions.
Are notes allowed at the debate?
Neither candidate will be allowed to bring notes or props into the debate. They will be given a pen, notepad and bottle of water on stage.
Will there be opening statements?
No. The debate will begin by immediately delving into questions. Candidates will have two-minute answers to questions, two-minute rebuttals and one extra minute for follow-ups, clarifications or responses, according to ABC.
Will there be commercial breaks?
Yes. There will be two commercial breaks. Candidates, however, cannot confer with staff during the pause.
Will Trump and Harris know the questions ahead of time?
No. Topics or questions will not be shared in advance with campaigns or candidates, according to ABC.
NewsNation’s Steph Whiteside contributed to this report.