The first presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump in the 2024 election cycle is scheduled for June 27, with CNN hosting the event. The network will use Jake Tapper and Dana Bash as moderators. Both candidates have agreed to participate in the debate, which will consist of two commercial breaks and microphones muted except for speaking turns. The debate format includes each candidate having two minutes to answer questions followed by one-minute rebuttals and responses. Candidates will not be allowed to consult with their campaign staff during commercial breaks. The candidates' podium positions will be determined by a coin flip, and they will only be provided with a pen, a pad of paper, and a bottle of water during the debate.
The first debate comes weeks before Trump's sentencing in his hush money trial. CNN has announced plans to run ads during the debate but no ads from political campaigns or PACs will be allowed. Marketers are interested in selling ads during the debates, with CNN offering two ad tiers: top-tier and lesser package.
The second presidential debate is scheduled for September 10 on ABC News, with the location yet to be announced. This year's debates will not be run by the non-partisan Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD), as both candidates had declined to partake in debates hosted by the CPD.
Biden and Trump have a history of aggressive behavior during their debates, with Biden scolding Trump during their first debate in 2020, 'Will you shut up, man?'. To ensure a civilized discussion and enforce timing, moderators will use all tools at their disposal.
At this time, the debate is limited to only Biden and Trump. A third-party candidate must achieve at least 15% support from four qualifying national polls as selected by CNN to participate. A debate between the two Vice President candidates is also expected.