ABC News Prepares for High-Stakes Trump-Harris Presidential Debate

As the United States approaches a pivotal moment in its political landscape, ABC News is set to host the only scheduled presidential debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris on September 10, 2024. This event marks a significant departure from traditional debate formats, as it is solely produced by ABC News rather than the bipartisan Commission on Presidential Debates, which has organized such events since 1988.

The debate, moderated by David Muir and Linsey Davis, carries immense weight for all parties involved. For ABC News, it represents a unique opportunity to showcase its journalistic prowess and potentially attract a record-breaking audience. The network's decision to proceed without a live audience adds an extra layer of complexity to the proceedings.

Ben Sherwood, former ABC News president and current CEO of the Daily Beast, likens the event to "hosting, moderating, and producing the Super Bowl of politics." This analogy underscores the magnitude of the occasion for the network, especially in an era where broadcast television faces declining viewership.

The road to this debate has not been without challenges. Donald Trump's recent criticisms of ABC News have raised questions about potential bias and fairness. The former president's comments serve as a reminder of the delicate balance moderators must strike in facilitating a productive dialogue while maintaining impartiality.

"I think a lot of people will be watching to see how nasty they are, how unfair they are."

ABC News Washington bureau chief Rick Klein emphasizes the network's commitment to creating a forum for candidates to communicate with the public, describing it as "a huge responsibility" and "a humbling responsibility."

The debate's rules have been carefully crafted to address concerns from previous encounters. Notably, candidates' microphones will be muted during their opponent's speaking time, a measure aimed at preventing interruptions and ensuring a more structured discourse.

As the debate approaches, the moderators face the challenging task of maintaining control while remaining neutral. Tom Bettag, a former ABC News producer, advises Muir and Davis to "stay cool" and "keep their voices down and stay steady" in the face of potential confrontations.

The upcoming debate not only serves as a platform for the candidates to present their visions for America's future but also as a test of ABC News' ability to navigate the complex terrain of modern political discourse. As millions of viewers tune in, the network's handling of this high-stakes event will undoubtedly be scrutinized, potentially shaping public perception of both the candidates and the media landscape.