Explained: Donald Trump vs Kamala Harris debate rules
US Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump will face off in the first debate on Tuesday, with both trying to gain an edge in the fiercely contested race for the White House. After weeks of back-and-forth over where, when and how the debate will take place, US broadcaster ABC — which is hosting the event — this week announced the final rules for the contest, which have been agreed upon by both campaigns.
Here are the key highlights.
When and where to watch the Trump vs Harris debate
The debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will take place at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on Tuesday at 9:00 pm local time (0100 GMT on Wednesday) and will be broadcast live. There will be no audience in the room.
The event will be moderated by ABC anchors David Muir and Linsey Davis and will run for 90 minutes, with two ad breaks.
Mikes muted at Donald Trump vs Kamala Harris debate?
The issue of whether microphones would be muted – as was done during the previous debate between US President Joe Biden and Trump – was controversial, with each side accusing the other of cowardice over the question.
ABC has announced that each candidate’s microphone will only be on when it’s their turn to speak, and muted when it’s the other candidate’s turn.
Only the moderator will be able to ask questions, and no topics or questions will be shared with the candidates beforehand.
Who will speak when?
Donald Trump and Kamala Harris will not make opening statements. They will be allotted two minutes to answer each question, while their opponent will be given two minutes for a rebuttal.
There will be an additional minute for “follow-up, clarification or response,” according to the rules.
At the end of the debate, each candidate will make a two-minute closing statement, with Trump speaking last according to the results of a virtual coin toss.
No Props
Candidates will stand behind the podium throughout the debate; no props or pre-written notes will be allowed.
