ABC News debate transcript and timing analysis

Harris and Trump to Debate on Sept. 10 in Philadelphia Under Strict ABC Rules, Including Muted Mics

Sep 5, 2024, 12:10 AM

Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are set to participate in their first presidential debate on September 10, hosted by ABC News at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. Both campaigns have agreed to the debate rules, which include a 90-minute format, no live audience, no notes, and microphones being muted when it is not a candidate's turn to speak. The Harris campaign initially pushed back against the muted microphone rule, arguing it would disadvantage the Vice President, but ultimately accepted the conditions to avoid Trump potentially backing out. The debate is a pivotal moment in the tight race, with Election Day just over two months away and early voting starting soon in some states.