Candidates will have the opportunity to pitch their vision for America directly to voters.
As if Georgia’s new status as a swing state was not enough attention, all eyes turn to the Peach state tonight as President Joe Biden faces off against former President Donald Trump in the first debate of this year’s Presidential election.
The 90-minute event happens tonight at 9pm ET live from CNN Studios in Atlanta. There will be two commercial breaks during which campaign staff will not be allowed to interact with the candidates.
The event will be simulcast on network and cable news and live streamed on USA TODAY. CNN will also stream the event on their website for those without cable. CNN hosts Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the debate.
Presidential debates are always highly negotiated affairs and this year’s is no exception. Representatives for both candidates negotiated unique rules including podium structure, mic rules and the absence of a studio audience.
Audiences should be very familiar with both candidates, but for Donald Trump, this first debate offers what the Washington Examiner calls a second chance to make a first impression. The stakes for both candidates are high, especially with only two debates scheduled this cycle.
The next debate is scheduled for September 10 and will be hosted by ABC News. A vice presidential debate is expected either July 23 or August 23. Trump has not named a running mate so details and dates have not been finalized.
Expect increased security and potential traffic reroutes throughout downtown in preparation for the debates.
